bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Energy Conversion and Entropy Production in Biased Random Walk Processes—From Discrete Modeling to the Continuous Limit
Authors: Kirchberg Henning , Nitzan Abraham
Published: August 2023

We considered discrete and continuous representations of a thermodynamic process in which a random walker (e.g., a molecular motor on a molecular track) uses periodically pumped energy (work) to pass N sites and move energetically downhill while dissipating heat. Interestingly, we found that, starting from a discrete model, the limit in which the motion becomes continuous in space and time (N→∞) is not unique and depends on what physical observables are assumed to be unchanged in the process. In particular, one may (as usually done) choose to keep the speed and diffusion coefficient fixed during this limiting process, in which case, the entropy production is affected. In addition, we also studied processes in which the entropy production is kept constant as N→∞ at the cost of a modified speed or diffusion coefficient. Furthermore, we also combined this dynamics with work against an opposing force, which made it possible to study the effect of discretization of the process on the thermodynamic efficiency of transferring the power input to the power output. Interestingly, we found that the efficiency was increased in the limit of N→∞. Finally, we investigated the same process when transitions between sites can only happen at finite time intervals and studied the impact of this time discretization on the thermodynamic variables as the continuous limit is approached.
Unraveling the Roots of Income Polarization in Europe: A Divided Continent
Authors: Fabiani Michele
Published: August 2023

The issue of polarization, as opposed to inequality, has been little explored in European countries. In this paper, using data provided by the Luxembourg Income Studies Database, we look at the trend of income polarization in 12 European countries, the only ones available with two comparable years, using the relative distribution method. The results clearly show a trend toward polarization in almost the cases analyzed, with a concentrated prevalence in the lower tail of the distribution, thus observing a worsening in the distribution. Next, we look at drivers that may have contributed to these changes, using the RIF-regression method. It is interesting to observe how these characteristics are in many cases common across all countries: the occupational sector, level of education and area of residence have the same impact, albeit with different intensities, in all countries. This suggests the possibility of coordinated intervention across these nations, acting on the same variables for all of them.
Design of a Dual-Band WiFi Antenna Using the Theory of Characteristic Modes and Nested Chinese Characters
Authors: Wang Zhonggen , Wang Mingqing , Nie Wenyan
Published: August 2023

In this paper, a dual-band WiFi antenna and its Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO) system application is designed, fabricated, and measured based on the Chinese characters “Men” and “Wei”. The antenna uses a 40 × 40 × 1.6 mm3 FR4 substrate to analyze the combinatorial structure of Chinese characters using the theory of characteristic modes, to optimize the antenna dimensions by analyzing the mode current distribution, and to broaden the antenna bandwidth by etching rectangular slots on the ground. The measured and simulated results show that the four-element MIMO antenna covers 5.68–8.01 GHz, the isolation between the antennas is higher than 20 dB in the working band, the envelope correlation coefficient and the channel capacity losses of the simulation are lower than 0.001 and 0.18 bits/s/HZ, respectively. The efficiency of the antenna is higher than 90%, and it can be used for WiFi communication bands (5.8 GHz and 6 GHz).
A Unified Active Frequency Regulating and Maximum Power Point Tracking Strategy for Photovoltaic Sources
Authors: Cai Hongda , Xia Yanghong , Yang Pengcheng , Li Jing , Zhou Yongzhi , Wei Wei
Published: August 2023

In order to optimize the extraction of solar energy, photovoltaic sources are commonly operated under the control of the so-called maximum power point (MPPT) strategy. However, as the rate of PV installations increases explosively, traditional MPPT algorithms may cause problems such as frequency deviation and power fluctuations, making system frequency stability a challenge due to the inherent intermittent and stochastic nature of PVs. Consequently, in order to reduce the investment and maintenance costs of storage systems, innovative control is expected for PV sources to provide ancillary services for the system, especially for weak systems such as microgrids. In this paper, a novel active power control (APC) strategy, based on characteristic curve fitting, is proposed to flexibly regulate the PV output power. The transient process performance and robustness of the system are improved with the proposed APC strategy. In conjunction, an f–P droop mechanism is designed to provide a frequency regulating (FR) service for the AC microgrid. The comprehensive control strategy unifies the FR function with the traditional MPPT function in a single control structure, allowing the PV source to operate either in the MPPT mode when the system frequency is nominal or in FR mode when the frequency exceeds it. The transition between MPPT and FR is autonomous and fully decentralized, which improves the PV generation efficiency as well as ensuring generation fairness among different parallel PV sources. Importantly, the proposed control strategy does not require any internal bundled energy within the PV generation system to achieve FR capability, but it effectively collaborates with the system-level energy storage system, thus reducing the necessary battery capacity. A detailed dynamic model of a PV generation system is constructed to validate the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed control strategy.
Recognition of Human Mental Stress Using Machine Learning: A Case Study on Refugees
Authors: Kamińska Dorota
Published: August 2023

This paper introduces a study on stress recognition utilizing mobile EEG and GSR sensors. The research involved collecting samples from a group of 55 refugees who participated in Virtual Reality stress-reduction sessions. The timing of the study coincided with an influx of refugees, prompting the development of software specifically designed to alleviate acute stress among them. The paper focuses on presenting an EEG/GSR signals pipeline for classifying stress levels, emphasizing selecting the most informative features. The classification process employed popular machine learning methods, yielding results of 86.7% for two-stress-level classification and 82.3% and 67.7% for the three- and five-level classifications, respectively. Most importantly, the positive impact of the system has been proven by subjective assessment in alignment with objective features analysis. Such a system has not yet reached the level of autonomy, but it can be a valuable support tool for mental health professionals.
Research and Hardware Implementation of a Reduced-Latency Quadruple-Precision Floating-Point Arctangent Algorithm
Authors: He Changjun , Yan Bosong , Xu Shiyun , Zhang Yiwen , Wang Zhenhua , Wang Mingjiang
Published: August 2023

In the field of digital signal processing, such as in navigation and radar, a significant number of high-precision arctangent function calculations are required. Lookup tables, polynomial approximation, and single/double-precision floating-point Coordinate Rotation Digital Computer (CORDIC) algorithms are insufficient to meet the demands of practical applications, where both high precision and low latency are essential. In this paper, based on the concept of trading area for speed, a four-step parallel branch iteration CORDIC algorithm is proposed. Using this improved algorithm, a 128-bit quad-precision floating-point arctangent function is designed, and the hardware circuit implementation of the arctangent algorithm is realized. The results demonstrate that the improved algorithm can achieve 128-bit floating-point arctangent calculations in just 32 cycles, with a maximum error not exceeding 2×10−34 rad. It possesses exceptionally high computational accuracy and efficiency. Furthermore, the hardware area of the arithmetic unit is approximately 0.6317 mm2, and the power consumption is about 40.6483 mW under the TSMC 65 nm process at a working frequency of 500 MHz. This design can be well suited for dedicated CORDIC processor chip applications. The research presented in this paper holds significant value for high-precision and rapid arctangent function calculations in radar, navigation, meteorology, and other fields.
Voltage Sag Detection and Compensation Signal Extraction for Power Quality Mitigation Devices
Authors: Saribulut Lutfu , Ameen Arman
Published: August 2023

The importance of voltage quality is continuously increasing in electrical networks due to the rising manufacturing costs resulting from system faults and disturbances in utility dynamics. Researchers generally prefer reference-frame transformation-based methods to detect and mitigate these disturbances. However, these methods are adversely affected during unbalanced loading and disturbances due to their direct dependence on system dynamics (currents and voltages). In this study, a new and simple method based on Clarke transformation is proposed to detect disturbances and generate compensation signals for Power Quality Mitigation Devices. The aim is to address the deficiencies of existing approaches. Firstly, the Clarke transformation is introduced through the vector presentation. Then, the mathematical derivation of the proposed method is provided to enhance readers’ understanding. The voltage sag detection and compensation signal extraction of its control algorithm for a Dynamic Voltage Restorer is illustrated graphically. Subsequently, a simple power system is created using a simulation program. Balanced and unbalanced voltage disturbances are applied to the test system to demonstrate the validation of the proposed method under distorted system conditions. The results of voltage sag detection and compensation signal extraction for both the proposed and existing methods are compared at the end of the case studies.
Experimental Study on the Influence of Incoming Flow on Wind Turbine Power and Wake Based on Wavelet Analysis
Authors: Niu Hongtao , Yang Congxin , Wang Yin
Published: August 2023

Taking a wind farm in the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau as the experimental site, the ZephiR Dual Mode (ZDM) LiDAR and ground-based laser LiDAR were used to scan the incoming flow and wake of the wind turbine separately. Based on wavelet analysis, the experimental study was conducted on the influence of different incoming wind speeds on the power and wake of the wind turbine. It is found that the incoming wind speeds have a great influence on the wind turbine power, and the fluctuation frequency of the wind speed is obviously higher than that of the power, that is, the scale effects of turbulence are magnified. The rotation of the wind wheel can accelerate the collapse of the large-scale turbulent structures of the incoming flow, and large-scale vortices continue to collapse into small-scale vortices, that is, the energy cascade evolution occurs. And in the wake diffusion process, the dissipation degree of the upper blade tip vortex is greater than that of the lower blade tip vortex caused by the rotation of the wind turbine. Under the same incoming flow conditions, due to the influence of tower and ground turbulence structure, the energy level connection phenomenon of the measuring points below the hub height is stronger than that above the hub height, and it weakens with the increase of the measuring distance. That is, the energy cascade of the measuring points below the hub height at 1.5 D (D is the diameter of the wind wheel) of the wake is weaker than that at 1 D of the wake. With the increase of the measuring distance of the wake, the influx of the external flow field further aggravates the momentum exchange and energy transport between the vortex clusters, that is, the influence of the external flow field gradually increases in the wake vortex pulsation.
Lignocellulose Degrading Weizmannia coagulans Capable of Enantiomeric L-Lactic Acid Production via Consolidated Bioprocessing
Authors: Pamueangmun Punnita , Abdullahi Aliyu Dantani , Kabir Md. Humayun , Unban Kridsada , Kanpiengjai Apinun , Venus Joachim , Shetty Kalidas , Saenjum Chalermpong , Khanongnuch Chartchai
Published: August 2023

Second-generation lactic acid production requires the development of sustainable and economically feasible processes and renewable lignocellulose biomass as a starting raw material. Weizmannia coagulans MA42 was isolated from a soil sample in Chiang Mai province, Thailand and showed the highest production of L-lactic acid and lignocellulolytic enzymes (cellulase, β-mannanase, xylanase, β-glucosidase, β-mannosidase, and β-xylosidase) compared to other isolates. Weizmannia coagulans MA42 was able to grow, secrete lignocellulolytic enzymes, and directly produce L-lactic acid in the medium containing various lignocellulosic feedstocks as the sole carbon source. Moreover, L-lactic acid production efficiency was improved after the substrates were pretreated with diluted sulfuric acid and diluted sodium hydroxide. The highest L-lactic acid production efficiency of 553.4 ± 2.9, 325.4 ± 4.1, 326.6 ± 4.4, 528.0 ± 7.2, and 547.0 ± 2.2 mg/g total available carbohydrate was obtained from respective pretreated substrates including sugarcane bagasse, sugarcane trash, corn stover, rice straw, and water hyacinth. It is suggested that structural complexity of the lignocellulosic materials and properties of lignocellulolytic enzymes are the key factors of consolidated bioprocessing (CBP) of lignocellulosic feedstocks to lactic acid. In addition, the results of this study indicated that W. coagulans MA42 is a potent bacterial candidate for CBP of a variety of lignocellulosic feedstocks to L-lactic acid production; however, further bioprocess development and genetic engineering technique would provide higher lactic acid production efficiency, and this would lead to sustainable lactic acid production from lignocellulosic feedstocks.
Metagenomic Insights into the Regulatory Effects of Microbial Community on the Formation of Biogenic Amines and Volatile Flavor Components during the Brewing of Hongqu Rice Wine
Authors: Yang Ziyi , Li Wenlong , Yuan Yujie , Liang Zihua , Yan Yingyin , Chen Ying , Ni Li , Lv Xucong
Published: August 2023

As one of the typical representatives of Chinese rice wine (Huangjiu), Hongqu rice wine is produced with glutinous rice as the main raw material and Hongqu as the fermentation starter. The complex microbial flora in the brewing process may have a great influence on the formation of the flavor quality and drinking safety of Hongqu rice wine. Previous studies have shown that high biogenic amine (BA) content in rice wine has potential physiological toxicity and has become a bottleneck problem restricting the development of the rice wine industry. This study aimed to evaluate the regulatory effects of the microbial community on the formation of BAs and volatile flavor components during the brewing of Hongqu rice wine. The results demonstrated that histamine, putrescine, cadaverine, tyramine, tryptamine, spermine, and spermidine were the main BAs in Hongqu rice wine. The contents of putrescine, cadaverine, histamine, tyramine, and spermidine in Hongqu rice wine of HBAs (with higher BAs content) were significantly higher than those in LBAs (with lower BAs content). GC-MS testing results showed that there were significant differences in the composition of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) between HBAs and LBAs. Among them, VOCs such as 2-methoxy-4-vinylphenol, ethyl caprate, phenethyl acetate, ethyl lactate, ethyl myristate, ethyl palmitate, ethyl n-octadecanoate, ethyl oleate, and ethyl linoleate were identified as the characteristic volatile components with significant differences between HBAs and LBAs. Microbiome analysis based on metagenomic sequencing revealed that unclassified_g_Pantoea, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Panobacter disperse, unclassified_f_Enterobacteriaceae, Leuconostoc mesenteroides, and Saccharomyces cerevisiae were the dominant microbial species in the HBA brewing process, while Weissella confuse, Pediococcus acidilactici, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and Aspergillus niger were the dominant microbial species in the LBA brewing process. Furthermore, correlation heatmap analysis demonstrated that BAs were positively related to Lactobacillus curvatus, Lactococcus lactis, and Leuconostoc mesenteroides. Bioinformatical analysis based on the KEGG database revealed that the microbial genes encoding enzymes involved in BAs’ synthesis were more abundant in HBAs, and the abundances of microbial genes encoding enzymes related to BAs’ degradation and the metabolism of characteristic volatile components were higher in LBAs. Overall, this work provides important scientific data for enhancing the flavor quality of Hongqu rice wine and lays a solid foundation for the healthy development of the Hongqu rice wine industry.
Effect of Heat–Moisture Treatment on the Structure and Digestibility of Sweet Potato Starch
Authors: Sun Yangyang , Qin Renbing , Zeng Jie , Li Guanglei
Published: August 2023

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of temperature changes during heat–moisture treatment (HMT) on the appearance, structure and digestibility of sweet potato starch (SPS). The results showed that after HMT, there were depressions, cavities and fragments on the surface of SPS particles. The polarized crosses of SPS were irregular and partially blurred. The relative crystallinity and short-range order of SPS decreased, while rearrangement and reorientation of the starch molecules occurred and the thermal stability increased. The resistant starch content of SPS reached the highest (24.77%) after 4 h treatment at 110 °C and 25% moisture. The obtained results can provide a reference for the modification of SPS.
Water-Insoluble Polysaccharide Extracted from Poria cocos Alleviates Antibiotic-Associated Diarrhea Based on Regulating the Gut Microbiota in Mice
Authors: Lai Yong , Deng Huiling , Fang Qi , Ma Linhua , Lei Hui , Guo Xiurong , Chen Ya , Song Can
Published: August 2023

Antibiotics are very effective in treating a variety of bacterial infections, while clinical overuse of antibiotics can lead to diseases such as antibiotic-associated diarrhea. Numerous studies have shown that natural polysaccharides can be used as prebiotics to alleviate antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD). Poria cocos is a medicinal and edible mushroom widely used for thousands of years in China, and our former study demonstrated that water-insoluble polysaccharide (PCY) has the potential prebiotic function. Therefore, we simulated the digestion and fermentation of PCY using feces from volunteers, and then administered it to C57BL/6 mice with AAD to study its effects on the gut microbiota and metabolites. The results indicated that PCY effectively alleviated the symptoms of AAD in mice, restored the intestinal barrier function, improved the content of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), decreased the level of inflammatory cytokines, and changed the structure of gut microbiota by increasing the relative abundance of norank_f__Muribaculaceae and unclassified_f__Lachnospiraceae, and decreasing that of Escherichia-Shigella, Staphylococcus and Acinetobacter. This study further demonstrated that PCY is an effective functional prebiotic for improving AAD disease, and provided a new avenue and insight for developing PCY as a functional food or prebiotic for alleviating gastrointestinal diseases.
Continuation of Radial Positive Definite Functions and Their Characterization
Authors: Bouzeffour Fethi
Published: August 2023

This paper delves into the extension and characterization of radial positive definite functions into non-integer dimensions. We provide a thorough investigation by employing the Riemann–Liouville fractional integral and fractional Caputo derivatives, enabling a comprehensive understanding of these functions. Additionally, we introduce a secondary characterization based on the Bernstein characterization of completely monotone functions. The practical significance of our study is showcased through an examination of the positivity of the fundamental solution of the space-fractional Bessel diffusion equation, highlighting the real-world applicability of the developed concepts. Through this work, we contribute to the broader understanding of radial positive definite functions and their utility in diverse mathematical and applied contexts.
Water-Content-Dependent Switching of the Bending Behavior of Photoresponsive Hydrogels Composed of Hydrophilic Acrylamide-Based Main Chains and Hydrophobic Azobenzene
Authors: Park Junsu , Shimizu Yuki , Zhou Xin , Ikura Ryohei , Matsuba Go , Takashima Yoshinori
Published: August 2023

Photoresponsiveness is a promising characteristic of stimulus-responsive materials. Photoresponsiveness can be achieved by incorporating photoresponsive molecules into polymeric materials. In addition, multiple-stimuli-responsive materials have attracted scientists’ interest. Among the numerous multiple-stimuli-responsive materials, moisture- and photoresponsive materials are the focus of this report. These stimuli-responsive materials responded to the stimuli synergistically or orthogonally. Unlike most stimulus-responsive materials utilizing moisture and light as stimuli, the materials studied herein switch their photoresponsiveness in the presence of moisture. Appropriate copolymers consisting of hydrophilic acrylamide-based monomers for the main chain and hydrophobic azobenzene moieties switched their bending behaviors at 6–9 wt% water contents. At water contents lower than 6 wt%, the polymeric materials bent away from the light source, while they bent toward the light source at water contents higher than 10 wt%. At a low water content, the bending behaviors can be described on the molecular scale. At a high water content, the bending behavior requires consideration of the phase scale, not only the molecular scale. By controlling the balance between hydrophilicity and hydrophobicity, the switching behavior was achieved. This switching behavior may inspire additional strategies for the application of polymeric material as actuators.
Network Temporality in Percival Everett’s Poetry
Authors: Linge Zach
Published: August 2023

Drawing on new media scholarship, the article suggests that Percival Everett’s poetry can be understood through the lens of hypergraphical knowledge. In this context, Everett’s poetry operates as a synchronic and diachronic exploration of poetic movements, genres, forms, and inheritances, embodying network-temporal relations similar to the hypernarrator(s) of his fiction. Ultimately, this analysis observes the expansive and cohesive nature of Everett’s work, inviting readers to refocus their attention on the indeterminate surface of, and the intricate web of meaning in his poetry.
Clinicians’ Perceptions of Artificial Intelligence: Focus on Workload, Risk, Trust, Clinical Decision Making, and Clinical Integration
Authors: Shamszare Hamid , Choudhury Avishek
Published: August 2023

Artificial intelligence (AI) offers the potential to revolutionize healthcare, from improving diagnoses to patient safety. However, many healthcare practitioners are hesitant to adopt AI technologies fully. To understand why, this research explored clinicians’ views on AI, especially their level of trust, their concerns about potential risks, and how they believe AI might affect their day-to-day workload. We surveyed 265 healthcare professionals from various specialties in the U.S. The survey aimed to understand their perceptions and any concerns they might have about AI in their clinical practice. We further examined how these perceptions might align with three hypothetical approaches to integrating AI into healthcare: no integration, sequential (step-by-step) integration, and parallel (side-by-side with current practices) integration. The results reveal that clinicians who view AI as a workload reducer are more inclined to trust it and are more likely to use it in clinical decision making. However, those perceiving higher risks with AI are less inclined to adopt it in decision making. While the role of clinical experience was found to be statistically insignificant in influencing trust in AI and AI-driven decision making, further research might explore other potential moderating variables, such as technical aptitude, previous exposure to AI, or the specific medical specialty of the clinician. By evaluating three hypothetical scenarios of AI integration in healthcare, our study elucidates the potential pitfalls of sequential AI integration and the comparative advantages of parallel integration. In conclusion, this study underscores the necessity of strategic AI integration into healthcare. AI should be perceived as a supportive tool rather than an intrusive entity, augmenting the clinicians’ skills and facilitating their workflow rather than disrupting it. As we move towards an increasingly digitized future in healthcare, comprehending the among AI technology, clinician perception, trust, and decision making is fundamental.
Translation and Validation of the Swedish Version of the Tilburg Frailty Indicator
Authors: Mazya Amelie Lindh , Boström Anne-Marie , Bujacz Aleksandra , Ekdahl Anne W. , Kowalski Leo , Sandberg Magnus , Gobbens Robbert J. J.
Published: August 2023

The Tilburg Frailty Indicator (TFI) is a questionnaire with 15 questions designed for screening for frailty in community-dwelling older people. TFI has a multidimensional approach to frailty, including physical, psychological, and social dimensions. The aim of this study was to translate TFI into Swedish and study its psychometric properties in community-dwelling older people with multimorbidity. A cross-sectional study of individuals 75 years and older, with ≥3 diagnoses of the ICD-10 and ≥3 visits to the Emergency Department in the past 18 months. International guidelines for back-translation were followed. Psychometric properties of the TFI were examined by determining the reliability (inter-item correlations, internal consistency, test–retest) and validity (concurrent, construct, structural). A total of 315 participants (57.8% women) were included, and the mean age was 83.3 years. The reliability coefficient KR-20 was 0.69 for the total sum. A total of 39 individuals were re-tested, and the weighted kappa was 0.7. TFI correlated moderately with other frailty measures. The individual items correlated with alternative measures mostly as expected. In the confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), a three-factor model fitted the data better than a one-factor model. We found evidence for adequate reliability and validity of the Swedish TFI and potential for improvements.
The Effectiveness of Home-Based Inspiratory Muscle Training on Small Airway Function and Disease-Associated Symptoms in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Chang Wen , Lin Horng-Chyuan , Liu Hsueh-Erh , Han Chin-Yen , Chang Po-Jui
Published: August 2023

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is characterized by persistent airflow limitations, occurring mainly in the small airways. Weakness in the respiratory muscles contributes to dyspnea and a decreased exercise capacity in COPD patients. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of home-based inspiratory muscle training (IMT) on small airway function and symptoms in COPD patients. This research adopted a non-randomized controlled-study quasi-experimental design. The IMT program consisted of two 15 min sessions·d−1, 5 d·wk−1, with 40% of the maximal inspiratory pressure (PImax) on each participant’s assessment results and lasted for 12 weeks. Small airway function was assessed using plethysmography at baseline and after 12 weeks. The modified British Medical Research Council (mMRC), COPD assessment test (CAT), PImax, and 6 min walking distance (6MWD) were recorded at baseline as well as four, eight, and twelve weeks. Twenty-three participants with at least moderate COPD were enrolled in IMT (n = 16) or in the control group (n = 7) in this study. The study participants were mostly male (82.6%), and the average age was 68.29 ± 10.87 years, with a mean body mass index (BMI) of 23.54 ± 4.79. After 12 weeks, the ratios of the first second of forced expiration to the forced vital capacity (FEV1/FVC%) (B coefficient [95% Wald confidence interval] of 5.21 [0.46 to 9.96], p = 0.032), forced expiratory flow (FEF25–75%) (0.20 [0.04 to 0.35] L/s, p = 0.012), and FEF50% (0.26 [0.08 to 0.43] L/s, p = 0.004) in the IMT group were significantly better than in the control group. The IMT group showed significantly lower CAT scores at week 8 (−5.50 [−10.31 to −0.695] scores, p = 0.025) than the control group. The mMRC grade, CAT score, PImax, and 6MWD were significantly improved compared to their values at baseline in the IMT group. Home-based IMT effectively improved post-bronchodilator small airway function and disease-associated symptoms in COPD patients.
Daniel Sennert’s Corpuscularian Reforms to Natural Philosophy
Authors: Müller Gabriel
Published: August 2023

Daniel Sennert (1572–1637), professor of medicine and natural philosophy in Wittenberg, defended a highly unusual philosophical system. This paper examines Sennert’s vision of natural philosophy within the context of the rapidly changing environment of the seventeenth century and relates his philosophical innovations to his methodology. The main result is that Sennert’s postulation of corpuscles with substantial forms, though it takes place within the framework of Aristotelian natural philosophy, directly influences his philosophical view of qualities.
COVID-19 Restrictions Resulted in Both Positive and Negative Effects on Digital Media Use, Mental Health, and Lifestyle Habits
Authors: Nutley Sissela B. , Burén Jonas , Thorell Lisa B.
Published: August 2023

While studies have reported effects on digital media during the COVID-19 restrictions, few have included data prior to the pandemic, and most have only measured screen time. We therefore investigated changes in specific digital media activities, as well as mental health and lifestyle habits, in a longitudinal study of adolescents spanning from before the pandemic (T1) to one month into restrictions (T2) and one year later when schools had reopened (T3). Adolescents (16–19 years) rated smartphone use, problematic/addictive media use, negative experiences (e.g., victimization), mental health (i.e., irritability, stress, and closeness), and protective lifestyle habits (i.e., sleep and exercise). Results showed initial decreases in irritability and negative digital experiences, increases in sleep and exercise, as well as a decrease in closeness during remote learning (T2). However, these changes returned to, or superseded, their initial levels at follow-up (T3). There were also increases in digital media use and stress at T3. Conclusively, by investigating specific digital media activities and collecting data both prior to and during different phases of the pandemic, we were able to find both positive and negative effects.
Public Mental Health Approaches to Online Radicalisation: An Empty Systematic Review
Authors: Mughal Rabya , DeMarinis Valerie , Nordendahl Maria , Lone Hassan , Phillips Veronica , Boyd-MacMillan Eolene
Published: August 2023

This systematic review seeks to position online radicalisation within whole system frameworks incorporating individual, family, community and wider structural influences whilst reporting evidence of public mental health approaches for individuals engaging in radical online content. Methods: the authors searched Medline (via Ovid), PsycInfo (via Ebscohost) and Web of Science (Core Collection) with the use of Boolean operators across “extremism”, “online content” and “intervention”. Results: Following full-text assessments, all retrieved papers were excluded. No publications fulfilled the primary objective of reporting public mental health interventions specifically addressing online radicalisation. However, six publications fulfilled the secondary objective of identifying theoretical and conceptual relationships amongst elements in the three inclusion criteria (online extremism, psychological outcomes and intervention strategy) that could inform interventions within public mental health frameworks. These publications were quality assessed and discussed following the Cochrane Effective Practice and Organisation of Care guide for reporting empty reviews. Conclusions: there is an immediate need for further research in this field given the increase in different factions of radicalised beliefs resulting from online, particularly social media, usage.
Multi-Criterion Analysis of Cyclone Risk along the Coast of Tamil Nadu, India—A Geospatial Approach
Authors: Saravanan Subbarayan , Abijith Devanantham , Kulithalai Shiyam Sundar Parthasarathy , Reddy Nagireddy Masthan , Almohamad Hussein , Al Dughairi Ahmed Abdullah , Al-Mutiry Motrih , Abdo Hazem Ghassan
Published: August 2023

A tropical cyclone is a significant natural phenomenon that results in substantial socio-economic and environmental damage. These catastrophes impact millions of people every year, with those who live close to coastal areas being particularly affected. With a few coastal cities with large population densities, Tamil Nadu’s coast is the third-most cyclone-prone state in India. This study involves the generation of a cyclone risk map by utilizing four distinct components: hazards, exposure, vulnerability, and mitigation. The study employed a Geographical Information System (GIS) and an Analytical Hierarchical Process (AHP) technique to compute an integrated risk index considering 16 spatial variables. The study was validated by the devastating cyclone GAJA in 2018. The resulting risk assessment shows the cyclone risk is higher in zones 1 and 2 in the study area and emphasizes the variations in mitigation impact on cyclone risk in zones 4 and 5. The risk maps demonstrate that low-lying areas near the coast, comprising about 3%, are perceived as having the adaptive capacity for disaster mitigation and are at heightened risk from cyclones regarding population and assets. The present study can offer valuable guidance for enhancing natural hazard preparedness and mitigation measures in the coastal region of Tamil Nadu.
β2-Adrenergic Receptor Mediated Inhibition of T Cell Function and Its Implications for CAR-T Cell Therapy
Authors: Farooq Muhammad Asad , Ajmal Iqra , Hui Xinhui , Chen Yiran , Ren Yaojun , Jiang Wenzheng
Published: August 2023

The microenvironment of most tumors is complex, comprising numerous aspects of immunosuppression. Several studies have indicated that the adrenergic system is vital for controlling immunological responses. In the context of the tumor microenvironment, nor-adrenaline (NA) is poured in by innervating nerves and tumor tissues itself. The receptors for nor-adrenaline are present on the surfaces of cancer and immune cells and are often involved in the activation of pro-tumoral signaling pathways. Beta2-adrenergic receptors (β2-ARs) are an emerging class of receptors that are capable of modulating the functioning of immune cells. β2-AR is reported to activate regulatory immune cells and inhibit effector immune cells. Blocking β2-AR increases activation, proliferation, and cytokine release of T lymphocytes. Moreover, β2-AR deficiency during metabolic reprogramming of T cells increases mitochondrial membrane potential and biogenesis. In the view of the available research data, the immunosuppressive role of β2-AR in T cells presents it as a targetable checkpoint in CAR-T cell therapies. In this review, we have abridged the contemporary knowledge about adrenergic-stress-mediated β2-AR activation on T lymphocytes inside tumor milieu.
Molecular Design of FRET Probes Based on Domain Rearrangement of Protein Disulfide Isomerase for Monitoring Intracellular Redox Status
Authors: Yagi-Utsumi Maho , Miura Haruko , Ganser Christian , Watanabe Hiroki , Hiranyakorn Methanee , Satoh Tadashi , Uchihashi Takayuki , Kato Koichi , Okazaki Kei-ichi , Aoki Kazuhiro
Published: August 2023

Multidomain proteins can exhibit sophisticated functions based on cooperative interactions and allosteric regulation through spatial rearrangements of the multiple domains. This study explored the potential of using multidomain proteins as a basis for Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) biosensors, focusing on protein disulfide isomerase (PDI) as a representative example. PDI, a well-studied multidomain protein, undergoes redox-dependent conformational changes, enabling the exposure of a hydrophobic surface extending across the b’ and a’ domains that serves as the primary binding site for substrates. Taking advantage of the dynamic domain rearrangements of PDI, we developed FRET-based biosensors by fusing the b’ and a’ domains of thermophilic fungal PDI with fluorescent proteins as the FRET acceptor and donor, respectively. Both experimental and computational approaches were used to characterize FRET efficiency in different redox states. In vitro and in vivo evaluations demonstrated higher FRET efficiency of this biosensor in the oxidized form, reflecting the domain rearrangement and its responsiveness to intracellular redox environments. This novel approach of exploiting redox-dependent domain dynamics in multidomain proteins offers promising opportunities for designing innovative FRET-based biosensors with potential applications in studying cellular redox regulation and beyond.
A Model of iPSC-Derived Macrophages with TNFAIP3 Overexpression Reveals the Peculiarities of TNFAIP3 Protein Expression and Function in Human Macrophages
Authors: Sheveleva Olga , Protasova Elena , Nenasheva Tatiana , Butorina Nina , Melnikova Victoria , Gerasimova Tatiana , Sakovnich Olga , Kurinov Alexander , Grigor’eva Elena , Medvedev Sergey , Lyadova Irina
Published: August 2023

Macrophages play a crucial role in the development and control of inflammation. Understanding the mechanisms balancing macrophage inflammatory activity is important to develop new strategies for treating inflammation-related diseases. TNF-α-induced protein 3 (TNFAIP3, A20) is a negative regulator of intracellular inflammatory cascades; its deficiency induces hyper-inflammatory reactions. Whether A20 overexpression can dampen macrophage inflammatory response remains unclear. Here, we generated human-induced pluripotent stem cells with tetracycline-inducible A20 expression and differentiated them into macrophages (A20-iMacs). A20-iMacs displayed morphology, phenotype, and phagocytic activity typical of macrophages, and they displayed upregulated A20 expression in response to doxycycline. A20 overexpression dampened the A20-iMac response to TNF-α, as shown by a decreased expression of IL1B and IL6 mRNA. A dynamic analysis of A20 expression following the generation of A20-iMacs and control iMacs showed that the expression declined in iMacs and that iMacs expressed a lower molecular weight form of the A20 protein (~70 kDa) compared with less differentiated cells (~90 kDa). A low-level expression of A20 and the predominance of a low-molecular-weight A20 form were also characteristic of monocyte-derived macrophages. The study for the first time developed a model for generating macrophages with an inducible expression of a target gene and identified the peculiarities of A20 expression in macrophages that likely underlie macrophage preparedness for inflammatory reactivity. It also suggested the possibility of mitigating inflammatory macrophage responses via A20 overexpression.
Trauma Patient Volume and the Quality of Care: A Scoping Review
Authors: Foppen Wouter , Claassen Yvette , Falck Debby , van der Meer Nardo J. M.
Published: August 2023

Background: Healthcare stakeholders in the Netherlands came to an agreement in 2022 to deal with present and future challenges in healthcare. Among others, this agreement contains clear statements regarding the concentration of trauma patients, including the minimal required number of annual severe trauma patients for Major Trauma Centers. This review investigates the effects of trauma patient volumes on several domains of the quality of healthcare. Methods: PubMed was searched; studies published during the last 10 years reporting quantitative data on trauma patient volume and quality of healthcare were included. Results were summarized and categorized into the quality domains of healthcare. Results: Seventeen studies were included with a total of 1,517,848 patients. A positive association between trauma patient volume and survival was observed in 11/13 studies with adjusted analyses. Few studies addressed other quality domains: efficiency (n = 5), safety (n = 2), and time aspects of care (n = 4). None covered people-centeredness, equitability, or integrated care. Conclusions: Most studies showed a better survival of trauma patients when treated in high-volume hospitals compared to lower volume hospitals. However, the ideal threshold could not be determined. The association between trauma volume and other domains of the quality of healthcare remains unclear.
Cardiac Arrest as an Uncommon Manifestation of Late Type A Aortic Dissection Associated with Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement
Authors: Naar Jan , Vondrakova Dagmar , Kruger Andreas , Janotka Marek , Zemanova Iva , Syrucek Martin , Neuzil Petr , Ostadal Petr
Published: August 2023

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is a minimally invasive therapeutic procedure with a consistent, linear increase in the number of implantations worldwide. Recently, TAVR has been rapidly expanding into lower-risk populations. Sporadic cases of late prosthesis-related Stanford type A dissection have been documented in self-expanding, as well as balloon-expandable TAVR valves, manifested primarily as acute aortic syndrome. We present the case of a 76-year-old male, who experienced refractory in-hospital cardiac arrest with non-shockable rhythm due to the obstruction of coronary flow caused by aortic dissection type A, with entry directly adjacent to the aortic prosthesis according to autopsy. The patient died despite the engagement of extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Aortic dissection developed one year after a transfemoral TAVR procedure using an Edwards SAPIEN 3 29 mm self-expanding valve. TAVR-associated late aortic dissection type A represents a rare, life-threatening condition with various clinical manifestations. The risk factors have not been well described and the differential diagnosis may be challenging. As the number of TAVR recipients and their life expectancy is increasing, we may face this complication more often in future.
The Value of Stress-Gated Blood Pool SPECT in Predicting Early Postoperative Period Complications in Ischemic Cardiomyopathy Patients: Focus on Mechanical Dyssynchrony
Authors: Shipulin Vladimir V. , Andreev Sergey , Kopeva Kristina , Shipulin Vladimir M. , Zavadovsky Konstantin
Published: August 2023

(1) Objective: The objective of this study was to assess the prognostic value of stress-gated blood pool SPECT (GBPS) estimates in patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy (ICM) in the early postoperative period. (2) Methods: A total of 57 patients (age 59.7 ± 6.6, 47 men) with ICM and LV ejection fraction (30 [27.5; 35]%) were enrolled in the study. Before surgical treatment, all patients underwent GBPS (rest–stress, dobutamine doses of 5/10/15 µg/kg/min). Stress-induced changes in left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction, peak ejection rate, volumes, and mechanical dyssynchrony (phase histogram standard deviation, phase entropy (PE), and phase histogram bandwidth) were estimated. Two-dimensional transthoracic echocardiography was performed baseline. Serum levels of NT-proBNP were analyzed with enzyme-linked immunoassay. (3) Results: After surgical treatment, patients were divided into two groups, one, with death, the need for an intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) or/and inotropic support with a stay in the intensive care unit for more than two days and two, without complications in the early postoperative period (EPOP). Complicated EPOP (CEPOP) was observed in 17 (30%) patients (death—2, IABP—4, extra inotropic support in intensive care unit—11), and 40 patients had no complications (NCEPOP). GBPS showed differences in LV EDV (mL) (321 [268; 358] vs. 268 [242; 313], p = 0.02), LV ESV (mL) (242 [201; 282] vs. 196 [170; 230], p = 0.005), and stress-induced changes in PE (1 (−2; 3) vs. −2 (−4; 0), p = 0.02). Aortic cross-clamp time and stress-induced changes in PE between rest and dobutamine dose of 10 µg/kg/min were the only independent predictors of CEPOP. An increase in LV entropy ≥ 1 on the dobutamine dose of 10µg/kg/min in comparison to rest investigation showed AUC = 0.853 (sensitivity = 62%, specificity = 90%, PPV = 71%; NPV = 85%; p < 0.0001). Conclusion: Stress-induced changes in PE obtained during low-dose dobutamine GBPS are associated with a complicated course of the early postoperative period after surgical treatment for ICM.
Fluid Management in Veno-Arterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Therapy—Analysis of an Experimental Pig Model
Authors: Djordjevic Ilija , Maier-Trauth Johanna , Gerfer Stephen , Elskamp Mara , Muehlbauer Thomas , Maul Alexandra , Rademann Pia , Ivanov Borko , Krasivskyi Ihor , Sabashnikov Anton , Kuhn Elmar , Slottosch Ingo , Wahlers Thorsten , Liakopoulos Oliver , Deppe Antje Christin
Published: August 2023

(1) Background: Fluid resuscitation is a necessary part of therapeutic measures to maintain sufficient hemodynamics in extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) circulation. In a post-hoc analysis, we aimed to investigate the impact of increased volume therapy in veno-arterial ECMO circulation on renal function and organ edema in a large animal model. (2) Methods: ECMO therapy was performed in 12 female pigs (Deutsche Landrasse × Pietrain) for 10 h with subsequent euthanasia. Applicable volume, in regard to the necessary maintenance of hemodynamics, was divided into moderate and extensive volume therapy (MVT/EVT) due to the double quantity of calculated physiologic urine output for the planned study period. Respiratory and hemodynamic data were measured continuously. Additionally, renal function and organ edema were assessed by blood and tissue samples. (3) Results: Four pigs received MVT, and eight pigs received EVT. After 10 h of ECMO circulation, no major differences were seen between the groups in regard to hemodynamic and respiratory data. The relative change in creatinine after 10 h of ECMO support was significantly higher in EVT (1.3 ± 0.3 MVT vs. 1.8 ± 0.5 EVT; p = 0.033). No major differences were evident for lung, heart, liver, and kidney samples in regard to organ edema in comparison of EVT and MVT. Bowel tissue showed a higher percentage of edema in EVT compared to MVT (77 ± 2% MVT vs. 80 ± 3% EVT; p = 0.049). (4) Conclusions: The presented data suggest potential deterioration of renal function and intestinal mucosa function by an increase in tissue edema due to volume overload in ECMO therapy.