bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
NS-GAAFET Compact Modeling: Technological Challenges in Sub-3-nm Circuit Performance
Authors: Mo Fabrizio , Spano Chiara Elfi , Ardesi Yuri , Ruo Roch Massimo , Piccinini Gianluca , Vacca Marco
Published: March 2023

NanoSheet-Gate-All-Around-FETs (NS-GAAFETs) are commonly recognized as the future technology to push the digital node scaling into the sub-3 nm range. NS-GAAFETs are expected to replace FinFETs in a few years, as they provide highly electrostatic gate control thanks to the GAA structure, with four sides of the NS channel entirely enveloped by the gate. At the same time, the NS rectangular cross-section is demonstrated to be effective in its driving strength thanks to its high saturation current, tunable through the NS width used as a design parameter. In this work, we develop a NS-GAAFET compact model and we use it to link peculiar single-device parameters to digital circuit performance. In particular, we use the well-known BSIM-CMG core solver for multigate transistors as a starting point and develop an ad hoc resistive and capacitive network to model the NS-GAAFET geometrical and physical structure. Then, we employ the developed model to design and optimize a digital inverter and a five-stage ring oscillator, which we use as a performance benchmark for the NS-GAAFET technology. Through Cadence Virtuoso SPICE simulations, we investigate the digital NS-GAAFET performance for both high-performance and low-power nodes, according to the average future node present in the International Roadmap for Devices and Systems. We focus our analysis on the main different technological parameters with regard to FinFET, i.e., the inner and outer spacers. Our results highlight that in future technological nodes, the choice of alternative low-K dielectric materials for the NS spacers will assume increasing importance, being as relevant, or even more relevant, than photolithographic alignment and resolution at the sub-nm scale.
A Real-Time, Open-Source, IoT-like, Wearable Monitoring Platform
Authors: Baldini Andrea , Garofalo Roberto , Scilingo Enzo Pasquale , Greco Alberto
Published: March 2023

The spread of informatics and electronic systems capable of the real-time monitoring of multiple psychophysiological signals has continuously grown in the last few years. In this study, we propose a novel open-source wearable monitoring platform (WMP) to synchronously acquire and process multiple physiological signals in a real-time fashion. Specifically, we developed an IoT-like modular and fully open-source platform composed of two main blocks that on the one hand connect multiple devices (the sensor fusion unit) and on the other hand process and store the sensors’ data through the internet (the remote storing and processing unit). To test the proposed platform and its computational performance, 15 subjects underwent an experimental protocol, in which they were exposed to rest and stressful sessions implementing the Stroop Color and Word Test (SCWT). Statistical analysis was performed to verify whether the WMP could monitor the expected variations in the subjects’ psychophysiological state induced by the SCWT. The WMP showed very good computational performance for data streaming, remote storing, and real-time processing. Moreover, the experimental results showed that the platform was reliable when capturing physiological changes coherently with the emotional salience of the SCWT.
A Broadband Analog Predistortion Linearizer Based on GaAs MMIC for Ka-Band TWTAs
Authors: Liu Ting , Su Xiaobao , Wang Gang , Zhao Bin , Fu Rui , Zhu Dan
Published: March 2023

In this article, a Ka-band broadband analog predistortion (APD) microwave monolithic integrated circuit (MMIC) with independent tunability based on a 0.15 μm GaAs pHEMT process is proposed, which can be cascaded in front of traveling wave tube amplifiers (TWTAs) to improve their linearity. The influence of different diode sizes on the parameters of Schottky diodes is analyzed and used to design the gain and phase nonlinear branches. The broadband APD MMIC is realized based on a dual-branch vector synthesis design and nonlinear frequency adjust module (NFAM). The independent tunability and broadband characteristics of the APD MMIC are verified by simulated and measured results with an error of less than 5%. Furthermore, a Ka-band 60 W TWTA is linearized by the APD MMIC, and the gain and phase compressions are reduced from 8 dB and 50° to within 3 dB and 12°, respectively. The third-order intermodulation (C/IM3) is greater than 28 dBc and noise power ratio (NPR) is greater than 15.7 dBc at 3 dB output power backoff (OPBO) over the operating band of 25.1~27.5 GHz, indicating that the APD MMIC can improve the nonlinearity of TWTA effectively under broadband signals.
A Well Production Prediction Method of Tight Reservoirs Based on a Hybrid Neural Network
Authors: Song Fuquan , Ding Heying , Wang Yongzheng , Zhang Shiming , Yu Jinbiao
Published: March 2023

Tight reservoirs have poor physical properties: low permeability and strong heterogeneity, which makes it difficult to predict productivity. Accurate prediction of oil well production plays a very important role in the exploration and development of oil and gas reservoirs, and improving the accuracy of production prediction has always been a key issue in reservoir characterization. With the development of artificial intelligence, high-performance algorithms make reliable production prediction possible from the perspective of data. Due to the high cost and large error of traditional seepage theory formulas in predicting oil well production, this paper establishes a horizontal well productivity prediction model based on a hybrid neural network method (CNN-LSTM), which solves the limitations of traditional methods and produces accurate predictions of horizontal wells’ daily oil production. In order to prove the effectiveness of the model, compared with the prediction results of BPNN, RBF, RNN and LSTM, it is concluded that the error results of the CNN-LSTM prediction model are 67%, 60%, 51.3% and 28% less than those of the four models, respectively, and the determination coefficient exceeds 0.95. The results show that the prediction model based on a hybrid neural network can accurately reflect the dynamic change law of production, which marks this study as a preliminary attempt of the application of this neural network method in petroleum engineering, and also provides a new method for the application of artificial intelligence in oil and gas field development.
An Improved Method to Accurately Estimate TOC of Shale Reservoirs and Coal-Measures
Authors: Li Menglei , Zhang Chaomo
Published: March 2023

Total organic carbon content is the important parameter in determining the quality of hydrocarbon source rocks. To accurately evaluate the TOC parameters of shale reservoirs and coal-measure shale reservoirs, the method to improve the accuracy of a reservoir TOC parameter calculation is investigated using the continental shale A1 well, the marine shale B1 well, and the marine-continental transitional shale C1 well as examples. Each of the three wells characterize a different paleoenvironmental regime. The ∆log R method based on natural gamma spectroscopy logging is proposed to calculate the TOC of shale reservoirs, and the dual ∆log R method based on natural gamma spectroscopy logging is proposed to calculate the TOC of coal-measure shale reservoirs. The results show that the proposed new method can reduce the absolute error by about 0.06~7.34 and the relative error by about 6.75~451.54% in the TOC calculation of three wells. The new method greatly expands the applicability of the ∆log R method and can effectively assist in the exploration and development of shale and coal-measure shale reservoirs.
Solar PV and Wind Power as the Core of the Energy Transition: Joint Integration and Hybridization with Energy Storage Systems
Authors: Villena-Ruiz Raquel , Honrubia-Escribano Andrés , Gómez-Lázaro Emilio
Published: March 2023

The availability and accessibility of renewable energy in locations worldwide make it play a leading role in the decarbonization process of the energy sector [...]
Research on Temperature Rise of Type IV Composite Hydrogen Storage Cylinders in Hydrogen Fast-Filling Process
Authors: Li Jiepu , Liu Junhao , Zhao Baodi , Wang Dongyu , Guo Shufen , Song Jitian , Li Xiang
Published: March 2023

The internal pressure and temperature of type IV on-board hydrogen storage cylinders constantly change during the hydrogen fast-filling process. In this work, a 2D axisymmetric computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model is established to study the temperature rise of hydrogen storage cylinders during the fast-filling process. The hydrogen filling rate, ambient temperature, volume, and hydrogen inlet temperature were investigated to evaluate their effects on temperature rise inside the cylinders. The effects of the inlet pressure rise and pre-cooling patterns on the temperature rise of large-volume type IV hydrogen storage cylinders are analyzed, and the optimal filling strategy is determined. The research results show that a greater filling rate causes a higher hydrogen temperature rise at the end. The ambient temperature increases linearly with the maximum hydrogen temperature and decreases linearly with the state of charge (SOC). As the volume increases, the temperature rise of the cylinder increases. Reducing the inlet hydrogen temperature helps control the temperature rise, and the hydrogen inlet pre-cooling temperature required for large-volume cylinders is lower. If the filling time remains unchanged, a high pressure rise rate should be avoided, and a linear pressure rise pattern is optimal. Reducing the initial cooling energy is key to optimizing the filling strategy.
A Novel Protection Strategy for Single Pole-to-Ground Fault in Multi-Terminal DC Distribution Network
Authors: Yang Ruixiong , Fang Ke , Chen Jianfu , Chen Yong , Liu Min , Meng Qingxu
Published: March 2023

The single pole-to-ground (SPG) fault is one of critical failures which will have a serious impact on the stable operation of the multi-terminal DC distribution network based on the modular multilevel converter (MMC). It is very significant to analyze fault characteristics for detecting faults and protection design. This paper established the DC SPG fault model, which showed that in the presence of a reactor, the short-circuit current was reduced from 2.3 kA to 1 kA at 6 ms after the fault. Then, a novel SPG fault protection strategy was proposed, which detected the current derivative in connection transformer grounding branch. When the value increases past the threshold of current derivative, small resistance was switched on to increase fault current. Thus, the reliability of differential protection was enhanced. Compared with the traditional protection method, the proposed method does not need communication, and improved the speed of protection. Finally, the simulation model was established in PSCAD/EMTDC. The model included three converter stations: T1, T2 and T3. Among them, T1 outputs power, and T2 and T3 receive power. The results of RTDS showed that the DC circuit breaker operated within 3 ms, the three-port circuit breaker worked within 50 ms, which proves that the proposed strategy was effective. At this time, the system switched from the T1–T2–T3 three-terminal networking operation mode to the T1–T2 two-terminal hand-in-hand operation mode. Since the T3 terminal no longer received power, the transmission power of the T1 terminal decreased, and the received power of the T2 terminal remained unchanged.
Characterization of Pectin Oligosaccharides Obtained from Citrus Peel Pectin
Authors: Pasarin Diana , Ghizdareanu Andra-Ionela , Teodorescu Florina , Rovinaru Camelia , Banu Alexandra
Published: March 2023

This study aims to characterize the pectic oligosaccharides (POSs) generated from enzymatically hydrolyzed citrus peel pectin using a selected enzyme. Pectinex Ultra AFP was used to depolymerize citrus peel pectin into POSs. The POSs were analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and liquid chromatography coupled with a mass spectrometer (LC/MS) methodology to determine the composition of monosaccharides and the average molar mass distribution based on the retention time. The identified fractions were predominantly neutral sugars (rhamnose, glucose, and galactose) and acidic sugars (galacturonic acid), with corresponding mole percentages of 8.67%, 10.28%, 74.33%, and 6.72%, respectively. The degree of polymerization (DP) was in the range of DP3–DP8, containing three (trimers) to eight (octamers) monomeric units. The low DP indicates an advanced degree of enzymatic hydrolysis of pectin up to the level of pectic POSs.
Validation of the LOGOS Software Package Methods for the Numerical Simulation of Cavitational Flows
Authors: Kozelkov Andrey , Kurkin Andrey , Kurulin Vadim , Plygunova Kseniya , Krutyakova Olga
Published: March 2023

Verification problems and numeric simulation of cavitation processes with the help of LOGOS computational fluid dynamics software are presented in this article. The Volume of Fluid method realized within LOGOS allowing numerical simulation of double-phase problems with a free surface is used for numeric simulation. Cavitation is resolved by updating the method with the account for interphase mass exchange; its condensation and evaporation parameters are calculated with the use of the Schnerr–Sauer and Zwart–Gerber–Belamri cavitation models. Numerical simulation results of most actual test problems considering turbulence and having reliable numerical data are presented, including simulations of flow around cylinders with flat and hemispherical end surfaces for various cavitation numbers. Numerical simulation results are presented for the process of rotation of a VP1304 screw propeller in the cavitational mode. Numerical experiments prove the operability of the implemented method.
Influence of the Deposition Rate and Substrate Temperature on the Morphology of Thermally Evaporated Ionic Liquids
Authors: Carvalho Rita M. , Neto Cândida , Santos Luís M. N. B. F. , Bastos Margarida , Costa José C. S.
Published: March 2023

The wetting behavior of ionic liquids (ILs) on the mesoscopic scale considerably impacts a wide range of scientific fields and technologies. Particularly under vacuum conditions, these materials exhibit unique characteristics. This work explores the effect of the deposition rate and substrate temperature on the nucleation, droplet formation, and droplet spreading of ILs films obtained by thermal evaporation. Four ILs were studied, encompassing an alkylimidazolium cation (CnC1im) and either bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide (NTf2) or the triflate (OTf) as the anion. Each IL sample was simultaneously deposited on surfaces of indium tin oxide (ITO) and silver (Ag). The mass flow rate was reproducibly controlled using a Knudsen cell as an evaporation source, and the film morphology (micro- and nanodroplets) was evaluated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The wettability of the substrates by the ILs was notably affected by changes in mass flow rate and substrate temperature. Specifically, the results indicated that an increase in the deposition rate and/or substrate temperature intensified the droplet coalescence of [C2C1im][NTf2] and [C2C1im][OTf] on ITO surfaces. Conversely, a smaller impact was observed on the Ag surface due to the strong adhesion between the ILs and the metallic film. Furthermore, modifying the deposition parameters resulted in a noticeable differentiation in the droplet morphology obtained for [C8C1im][NTf2] and [C8C1im][OTf]. Nevertheless, droplets from long-chain ILs deposited on ITO surfaces showed intensified coalescence, regardless of the deposition rate or substrate temperature.
Establishment of Residual Methods for Matrine in Quinoa Plants and Soil and the Effect on Soil Bacterial Community and Composition
Authors: Hui Xiangjuan , Chen Hongyu , Shen Shuo , Zhi Hui , Li Wei
Published: March 2023

A method was developed for the determination of matrine residues in quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) plants and soil by liquid chromatography triple quadrupole tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) with QuEChERS clean-up. Matrine from soil, quinoa roots, stems, leaves and seeds was extracted with 25% ammonia, 20 mL acetonitrile/methanol, salted with sodium chloride (NaCl) and purified with anhydrous magnesium sulfate (MgSO4), N-propyl ethylenediamine (PSA) and graphitized carbon black (GCB). Then a chromatographic separation was performed on a Shim-pack XR-ODS II (75 mm × 2.0 mm, i. d., 2.2 µm) column with a gradient elution of 5 mmol/L ammonium formate-methanol as the mobile phase and monitored in multiple reaction monitoring modes (MRM) in electrospray positive ionization mode. The results showed that in the range of 0.005~1 mg/L, the linear correlation coefficients of matrine in the five matrices were all above 0.999. The LOQs for soil, quinoa roots, stems, leaves and seeds were 0.005, 0.005, 0.01, 0.01 and 0.005 mg/kg, respectively. The mean recoveries ranged from 74.42% to 98.37%, with RSDs of 1.25–6.84% at the three concentration addition levels. The average intra-day and inter-day recoveries were 73.92–92.36% and 78.56–90.18%, respectively, with RSDs below 8.72% and 9.43%. The recoveries and reproducibility of the method were superior. The method was used to determine the actual samples, which indicated that the half-lives of matrine in quinoa seeds, leaves, stems and soil were 1.28–1.32, 1.03–1.21, 0.81–0.92 and 0.93–0.97 d. It has a half-life below 30 d, which is an easily dissipated pesticide. The method is simple, sensitive, accurate, reliable and applicable to a wide range of applications, and it can achieve the rapid multi-residue determination of matrine to a certain extent. Next Generation Sequencing was used to explore the effects of exposure to high and low doses of matrine on soil bacterial communities and the composition of the three soils in the Qinghai Province (Haixi, Haidong and Haibei). The results showed that the number of ASVs increased significantly after treatment with matrine at an effective dose of 0.1 mg/kg than after treatment with matrine at an effective dose of 5.0 mg/kg. Similarly, bacterial abundance was higher after 0.1 mg/kg of matrine treatment than after 5.0 mg/kg of matrine treatment. The inhibitory effect on some bacterial flora was enhanced with an increase in matrine application, while the inhibitory effect on bacterial flora was weakened with time. Applying a certain dose of matrine e changed the relative abundance of the dominant bacterial genera of the soil bacteria.
Non-Destructive Eggshell Strength Assessment Using Hertz Contact Theory—Part II: Implementation and Validation
Authors: De Ketelaere Bart , Corion Matthias , Adriaens Ines , Van Liedekerke Paul , Saeys Wouter
Published: March 2023

Eggshell strength is a critical quality factor for consumption eggs as it affects the probability of breakage in practice. In this study, a fast and low-cost methodology for the non-destructive determination of eggshell strength is presented. The method utilized a small steel ball to impact the egg and a microphone to analyse the impact characteristics. Hertz contact theory was applied to relate the measured impact characteristics to the local stiffness of the eggshell. Therefore, a total of 150 eggs were studied on which eight consecutive measurements per egg were taken around the equator at equidistant places. The results showed a strong correlation of 0.93 between the traditional static stiffness measured during quasi-static compression tests and the average stiffness obtained from the new methodology. This paves the way towards fast, low-cost and non-destructive in-line shell strength measurements to reduce the number of cracked eggs reaching the consumer.
Regulation of the Colour Change of 3D-Printed Mackerel Mince (Scomber scombrus) Based on Purple Potato Powder and Citric Acid
Authors: Jin Zheng , Xie Yisha , Wang Zheming , Wang Yue , Sun Qinxiu , Dong Xiuping
Published: March 2023

The present study evaluates the effect of purple potato (PP) powder and citric acid (CA) on the regulation of the colour change of 3D (three-dimensional) printed mackerel mince (Scomber scombrus). In addition, the effects of PP and CA content on the 3D-printability and quality of mackerel mince were also investigated. The results showed that an increase in PP and CA concentrations gradually brightened the product colour and turned it pink. Furthermore, an increase in PP concentration and added CA reduced the fluidity and loss of water in mackerel mince. Proper PP and CA concentrations moderately increased the storage modulus (G′), loss modulus (G″), and yield stress of mackerel mince, making it suitable for 3D printing. At the same time, an increase in PP and CA concentrations enhanced the umami and sweet taste of mackerel mince but reduced the fishy and sour taste, and the degree of preference was within the acceptable range, except for PP1%-CA0%. It was found that, when the 3D-printing accuracy of mackerel-mince samples reached more than 97% and was acceptable, the optimal PP and CA concentrations for realizing the regulation of L*, a*, and b* were 1.00~3.00% and 0.09~0.32%, respectively.
The Application of Phenolic Acids in The Obtainment of Packaging Materials Based on Polymers—A Review
Authors: Kaczmarek-Szczepańska Beata , Grabska-Zielińska Sylwia , Michalska-Sionkowska Marta
Published: March 2023

This article provides a summarization of present knowledge on the fabrication and characterization of polymeric food packaging materials that can be an alternative to synthetic ones. The review aimed to explore different studies related to the use of phenolic acids as cross-linkers, as well as bioactive additives, to the polymer-based materials upon their application as packaging. This article further discusses additives such as benzoic acid derivatives (sinapic acid, gallic acid, and ellagic acid) and cinnamic acid derivatives (p-coumaric acid, caffeic acid, and ferulic acid). These phenolic acids are mainly used as antibacterial, antifungal, and antioxidant agents. However, their presence also improves the physicochemical properties of materials based on polymers. Future perspectives in polymer food packaging are discussed.
Enhancing Shelf Life Prediction of Fresh Pizza with Regression Models and Low Cost Sensors
Authors: Wunderlich Paul , Pauli Daniel , Neumaier Michael , Wisser Stephanie , Danneel Hans-Jürgen , Lohweg Volker , Dörksen Helene
Published: March 2023

The waste of food presents a challenge for achieving a sustainable world. In Germany alone, over 10 million tonnes of food are discarded annually, with a worldwide total exceeding 1.3 billion tonnes. A significant contributor to this issue are consumers throwing away still edible food due to the expiration of its best-before date. Best-before dates currently include large safety margins, but more precise and cost effective prediction techniques are required. To address this challenge, research was conducted on low-cost sensors and machine learning techniques were developed to predict the spoilage of fresh pizza. The findings indicate that combining a gas sensor, such as volatile organic compounds or carbon dioxide, with a random forest or extreme gradient boosting regressor can accurately predict the day of spoilage. This provides a more accurate and cost-efficient alternative to current best-before date determination methods, reducing food waste, saving resources, and improving food safety by reducing the risk of consumers consuming spoiled food.
Photothermal Response for the Thermoelastic Bending Effect Considering Dissipating Effects by Means of Fractional Dual-Phase-Lag Theory
Authors: Somer Aloisi , Novatski Andressa , Lenzi Marcelo Kaminski , da Silva Luciano Rodrigues , Lenzi Ervin Kaminski
Published: March 2023

We analyze an extension of the dual-phase lag model of thermal diffusion theory to accurately predict the contribution of thermoelastic bending (TE) to the Photoacoustic (PA) signal in a transmission configuration. To achieve this, we adopt the particular case of Jeffrey’s equation, an extension of the Generalized Cattaneo Equations (GCEs). Obtaining the temperature distribution by incorporating the effects of fractional differential operators enables us to determine the TE effects in solid samples accurately. This study contributes to understanding the mechanisms that contribute to the PA signal and highlights the importance of considering fractional differential operators in the analysis of thermoelastic bending. As a result, we can determine the PA signal’s TE component. Our findings demonstrate that the fractional differential operators lead to a wide range of behaviors, including dissipative effects related to anomalous diffusion.
Efficient Spectral Collocation Method for Tempered Fractional Differential Equations
Authors: Zhao Tinggang
Published: March 2023

Transient anomalous diffusion may be modeled by a tempered fractional diffusion equation. In this paper, we present a spectral collocation method with tempered fractional Jacobi functions (TFJFs) as basis functions and obtain an efficient algorithm to solve tempered-type fractional differential equations. We set up the approximation error as O(Nμ−ν) for projection and interpolation by the TFJFs, which shows “spectral accuracy” for a certain class of functions. We derive a recurrence relation to evaluate the collocation differentiation matrix for implementing the spectral collocation algorithm. We demonstrate the effectiveness of the new method for the nonlinear initial and boundary problems, i.e., the fractional Helmholtz equation, and the fractional Burgers equation.
“Geriatric Proximity” Intervention in COVID-19 Context: Contribution to Reducing Loneliness and Improving Affectivity
Authors: Morgado Bruno , Fonseca Cesar , Afonso Anabela , Amaro Pedro , Lopes Manuel , de Pinho Lara Guedes
Published: March 2023

(1) Background: The pandemic context has limited the social and family contacts of institutionalized older adults, and intervention is urgently needed. The aim of this study is to assess the impact of the implementation of a “Geriatric Proximity” intervention on the functioning, satisfaction with social support, affective experience, and feelings of loneliness of institutionalized older adults in the times of the pandemic. (2) Methods: This is a pilot study. An experimental group (subject to the “Geriatric Proximity” intervention) and a control group were constituted. Four assessment instruments were applied to both groups: the satisfaction with social support scale; the elderly nursing core set; the positive and negative affect schedule; and the UCLA loneliness scale. (3) Results: The control group shows no differences between the three measurement instants, while the experimental group shows between first and third measurements (all p < 0.05). We observed a reduction in the scores of loneliness scale, negative affect, and cognition functioning and an increase in satisfaction with social support and positive affect. (4) Conclusions: The intervention “Geriatric Proximity” showed a positive contribution by decreasing loneliness and increasing affectivity, satisfaction with social support, and cognitive function during the pandemic period.
Implementation of the Robson Classification in Greece: A Retrospective Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Giaxi Paraskevi , Gourounti Kleanthi , Vivilaki Victoria , Zdanis Panagiotis , Galanos Antonis , Antsaklis Aris , Lykeridou Aikaterini
Published: March 2023

Cesarean sections have become the most commonly performed operations around the world. The World Health Organization recommended the use of the Robson classification system as a universal standard to establish a joint control system in healthcare facilities. The aim of this study was to implement the Robson classification for the first time in Greece to identify trends in cesarean births and examine the groups of women who are the main contributors to the increasing rates. Moreover, the indicators for cesarean sections will be evaluated as per the Robson classification. In the sample analysis, we included the records of 8572 women giving birth in one private health facility in Greece. A total of 8572 women gave birth during the study period, of which 5224 (60.9%) were cesarean section births and 3348 (39.1%) were vaginal births. In our study, according to the Robson classification, the largest contributors to the overall CS rate were as follows: (a) nulliparous women with a single cephalic term pregnancy, who were either labor induced or delivered by cesarean section before labor—Group 2 (34.6%); (b) multiparous women with a single cephalic term pregnancy and at least one previous cesarean section—Group 5 (30.7%); (c) women with a single cephalic preterm pregnancy—Group 10 (11.7%); (d) women with multiple pregnancies—Group 8 (7.0%). Our study is expected to assist policymakers in Greece in planning further interventions for each subgroup of women in order to reduce the overall CS rate and unnecessary CSs.
The Relationship between Neighborhood Social Capital and the Health of Chinese Urban Elderly: An Analysis Based on CHARLS2018 Data
Authors: Huang Ziqi , Long Cuihong , Yi Chengzhi
Published: March 2023

There is growing interest in the relationship between neighborhood social capital and the health of urban older people, but existing research still falls short in exploring the relationship between the two. Based on 2018 CHARLS data, this paper quantitatively examines the association between neighborhood social capital and the self-rated health of urban older people. The study found that, after controlling for a series of variables, both increased social interaction and increased frequency of social interaction significantly improved urban older people’s self-rated health. To implement the Health China strategy and improve the health of urban older people, further attention should be paid to the role of neighborhood social capital, creating a harmonious environment for neighborhood interaction and promoting the cultivation of neighborhood social capital.
Regulation of Digital Healthcare in India: Ethical and Legal Challenges
Authors: Jain Dipika
Published: March 2023

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, digital healthcare has gained an influx of interest and global investment. The WHO has published guidelines and recommendations for countries to successfully implement telemedicine on a large, nationwide scale. This is not only helpful for patients who wish to protect themselves from COVID-19 and related illnesses that they may be vulnerable to, but it also has great potential to increase access to healthcare. In India, a country without universal healthcare grappling with a high level of distrust in the public health system, there are several implementation challenges for digital healthcare across the country. The current laws in India that regulate technology do not explicitly address telehealth, nor are there adequate data protection laws in place that could manage the significant amount of data that would be generated by digital healthcare if applied on a large scale. Further, there are concerns at the level of patient privacy, which could be compromised through digital healthcare. In addition to the legal concerns surrounding privacy, there is no framework in place to ensure informed consent in a digital healthcare context. In this paper, I analyze the legal, structural, and ethical concerns around digital health and provide an understanding of the problems these shortcomings pose, as well as policy recommendations for overcoming these problems.
Association between Personality Traits and Phubbing: The Co-Moderating Roles of Boredom and Loneliness
Authors: Abi Doumit Carla , Malaeb Diana , Akel Marwan , Salameh Pascale , Obeid Sahar , Hallit Souheil
Published: March 2023

Phubbing is defined as the use of one’s phone while in a conversation, leading to a disconnection from interpersonal communications. This topic has become more interesting lately due to the increased use of smartphones worldwide and in Lebanon, where 86% of the population owns a smartphone. This study aims to assess the association between phubbing and personality traits with the moderating effects of loneliness and boredom proneness. This cross-sectional study was conducted between August–September 2020. 461 participants (18–29 years) filled out the survey. Higher open-mindedness was associated with less phubbing. Being married compared to single and higher open-mindedness were significantly associated with less phubbing. More boredom was significantly associated with more phubbing. The interaction extraversion by boredom was significantly associated with phubbing; this was significant at low levels of loneliness and boredom where extraversion was significantly associated with more phubbing. At moderate loneliness and high boredom and at high loneliness and boredom, extraversion was significantly associated with less phubbing. The interactions between boredom and loneliness and the other four personality traits did not show any significant association with phubbing. The current study highlights the importance of personality traits in influencing phubbing and might contribute to the preliminary assessment of phubbing. Healthcare professionals might be able to use the data of this study to implement appropriate smartphone use habits, as this would help patients improve their social relationships.
Comparative Analysis of Qualitative Attributes for Selection of Calabaza Genotypes in the Southeast United States
Authors: Moreno Skylar R. , Yazdanpanah Masoud , Huang Tianyi , Sims Charles A. , Chase Carlene A. , Meru Geoffrey , Simonne Amarat , MacIntosh Andrew J.
Published: March 2023

Cucurbita moschata, commonly known as winter squash, tropical squash, and calabaza, is native to Central America. This tropical squash thrives in tropical and subtropical climates, including parts of the southeastern U.S. and is very popular among people of Hispanic and West Indian heritage. Development of calabaza cultivars that meet consumer acceptability is a major goal in breeding programs. The current study aims to determine and compare the quality parameters of novel calabaza germplasm lines with that of commercially available cultivars of calabaza (La Estrella and Soler) and butternut squash (Whatman Butternut). All cultivars ranged greatly in quality parameters, with the most promising germplasms highlighted within the study including UFTP 8 and UFTP 24. The basis of this ranking was dependent on these germplasm lines’ desirable attributes, including their color saturation (chroma (>80) (using the CIELAB scale)), °Brix (11.6 and 10.7 respectively), yeast fermentable extract (>67%), and firmness/hardness, (>3600). These findings show the potential to enhance consumer preferences for calabaza through breeding and provides a basis for commercial release of the superior germplasm identified.
High Frequency Direct Organogenesis in Five Romanian Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) Cultivars
Authors: Halmagyi Adela , Coste Ana , Deliu Constantin , Băcilă Ioan
Published: March 2023

Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) as the most economically important vegetable crop worldwide has been investigated intensively for the development of new and improved varieties. Most of these technologies require efficient protocols for in vitro regeneration and propagation of plant material. In the present study, an efficient and reproducible in vitro regeneration system for five Romanian tomato genotypes (cvs. ‘Capriciu’, ‘Darsirius’, ‘Kristin’, ‘Pontica’ and ‘Siriana’) has been established. The tomato genotypes were selected based on their horticultural and economically valuable traits. To study the in vitro morphogenic response, various explants, such as cotyledons, cotyledonary nodes, hypocotyls, leaf explants, internodes, stem nodes and apical buds have been selected. The highest efficiency in terms of direct shoot organogenesis was obtained in cv. ‘Capriciu’ (98% for apical buds and 94% for stem nodes) on culture media with zeatin and indole-3-butyric acid. One advantage of this regeneration procedure is beside its feasibility in handling, the high percentage of regenerated shoots and their rooting. The present protocol contributes to the existing information regarding the response of tomato cultivars to in vitro culture conditions.
Development of an Australian FASD Indigenous Framework: Aboriginal Healing-Informed and Strengths-Based Ways of Knowing, Being and Doing
Authors: Hewlett Nicole , Hayes Lorian , Williams Robyn , Hamilton Sharynne , Holland Lorelle , Gall Alana , Doyle Michael , Goldsbury Sarah , Boaden Nirosha , Reid Natasha
Published: March 2023

Aboriginal culture intuitively embodies and interconnects the threads of life that are known to be intrinsic to human wellbeing: connection. Therefore, Aboriginal wisdom and practices are inherently strengths-based and healing-informed. Underpinned by an Indigenist research methodology, this article presents findings from a collaboration of Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal peoples to develop an Australian Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Indigenous Framework during 2021 to 2023. The FASD Indigenous Framework unfolds the changes that non-Aboriginal clinicians and Aboriginal peoples each need to make in their respective ways of knowing, being and doing in order to facilitate access to healing-informed, strengths-based and culturally responsive FASD knowledge, assessment, diagnosis and support services among Aboriginal peoples. Drawing on the Aboriginal practices of yarning and Dadirri, written and oral knowledges were gathered. These knowledges were mapped against Aboriginal cultural responsiveness and wellbeing frameworks and collaboratively and iteratively reflected upon throughout. This article brings together Aboriginal wisdom (strengths-based, healing-informed approaches grounded in holistic and integrated support) and Western wisdom (biomedicine and therapeutic models) in relation to FASD. From a place of still awareness (Dadirri), both forms of wisdom were drawn upon to create Australia’s first FASD Indigenous Framework, a new practice in the assessment and diagnosis of FASD, which offers immense benefit to equity, justice, support and healing for Aboriginal families with a lived experience of FASD.
The Effect of Cholesterol Efflux on Endothelial Dysfunction Caused by Oxidative Stress
Authors: Ye Hua , Liu Qian , Wang Yuanyuan , Zhen Ximian , Yan Nianlong
Published: March 2023

Endothelial dysfunction (ED) is the initiation of atherosclerosis (AS). Our previous studies have found that cholesterol metabolism and the Wnt/β-catenin pathway can affect endoplasmic reticulum stress (ER stress), which ultimately leads to ED. However, the effects of cholesterol efflux on ED, which are caused by oxidative stress and the correlation among ER stress, Wnt/β-catenin pathway, and cholesterol efflux, are not clear during ED. To uncover them, the expressions of liver X receptors (LXRα and LXRβ) and ATP-binding cassette protein A1 (ABCA1) and G1 (ABCG1) in HUVECs (human umbilical vein endothelial cells) were measured under oxidative stress. Moreover, HUVECs were treated with LXR-623 (LXR agonist), cholesterol, tunicamycin, and salinomycin alone or together. The results indicated that oxidative stress-induced ED could deregulate the expressions of LXRα and LXRβ and trigger the ER stress and Wnt/β-catenin pathway, resulting thereafter in the accumulation of cholesterol. Furthermore, similar results were shown after treatment with cholesterol; however, the activation of liver X receptor (LXR) could reverse these changes. Furthermore, other results demonstrated that tunicamycin-induced ER stress could stimulate the accumulation of cholesterol and the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, further leading to ED. Inversely, salinomycin could reverse the above effects by deregulating the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Collectively, our results showed that cholesterol efflux is partly responsible for the oxidative stress-induced ED; in addition, ER stress, the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, and cholesterol metabolism can interact with each other to promote ED.
dCas9-Based PDGFR–β Activation ADSCs Accelerate Wound Healing in Diabetic Mice through Angiogenesis and ECM Remodeling
Authors: Li Yumeng , Li Deyong , You Lu , Deng Tian , Pang Qiuyu , Meng Xiangmin , Zhu Bingmei
Published: March 2023

The chronic wound represents a serious disease characterized by a failure to heal damaged skin and surrounding soft tissue. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) derived from adipose tissue (ADSCs) are a promising therapeutic strategy, but their heterogeneity may result in varying or insufficient therapeutic capabilities. In this study, we discovered that all ADSCs populations expressed platelet–derived growth factor receptor β (PDGFR–β), while the expression level decreased dynamically with passages. Thus, using a CRISPRa–based system, we endogenously overexpressed PDGFR–β in ADSCs. Moreover, a series of in vivo and in vitro experiments were conducted to determine the functional changes in PDGFR–β activation ADSCs (AC–ADSCs) and to investigate the underlying mechanisms. With the activation of PDGFR–β, AC–ADSCs exhibited enhanced migration, survival, and paracrine capacity relative to control ADSCs (CON–ADSCs). In addition, the secretion components of AC–ADSCs contained more pro–angiogenic factors and extracellular matrix–associated molecules, which promoted the function of endothelial cells (ECs) in vitro. Additionally, in in vivo transplantation experiments, the AC–ADSCs transplantation group demonstrated improved wound healing rates, stronger collagen deposition, and angiogenesis. Consequently, our findings revealed that PDGFR–β overexpression enhanced the migration, survival, and paracrine capacity of ADSCs and improved therapeutic effects after transplantation to diabetic mice.
Inherited Disorders of Coenzyme A Biosynthesis: Models, Mechanisms, and Treatments
Authors: Cavestro Chiara , Diodato Daria , Tiranti Valeria , Di Meo Ivano
Published: March 2023

Coenzyme A (CoA) is a vital and ubiquitous cofactor required in a vast number of enzymatic reactions and cellular processes. To date, four rare human inborn errors of CoA biosynthesis have been described. These disorders have distinct symptoms, although all stem from variants in genes that encode enzymes involved in the same metabolic process. The first and last enzymes catalyzing the CoA biosynthetic pathway are associated with two neurological conditions, namely pantothenate kinase-associated neurodegeneration (PKAN) and COASY protein-associated neurodegeneration (CoPAN), which belong to the heterogeneous group of neurodegenerations with brain iron accumulation (NBIA), while the second and third enzymes are linked to a rapidly fatal dilated cardiomyopathy. There is still limited information about the pathogenesis of these diseases, and the knowledge gaps need to be resolved in order to develop potential therapeutic approaches. This review aims to provide a summary of CoA metabolism and functions, and a comprehensive overview of what is currently known about disorders associated with its biosynthesis, including available preclinical models, proposed pathomechanisms, and potential therapeutic approaches.
Cellular and Molecular Signaling Meet the Space Environment
Authors: Kamal Khaled Y. , Lawler John M.
Published: March 2023

During space missions that travel beyond the cocoon of the Earth’s magnetosphere, astronauts are subjected to the microgravity and radiation stressors of outer space [...]
Two Single Nucleotide Deletions in the ABCD1 Gene Causing Distinct Phenotypes of X-Linked Adrenoleukodystrophy
Authors: Dohr Katrin A. , Tokic Silvija , Gastager-Ehgartner Magdalena , Stojakovic Tatjana , Dumic Miroslav , Plecko Barbara , Dumic Katja K.
Published: March 2023

X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy (X-ALD) is a rare inborn error of the peroxisomal metabolism caused by pathologic variants in the ATP-binding cassette transporter type D, member 1 (ABCD1) gene located on the X-chromosome. ABCD1 protein, also known as adrenoleukodystrophy protein, is responsible for transport of the very long chain fatty acids (VLCFA) from cytoplasm into the peroxisomes. Therefore, altered function or lack of the ABCD1 protein leads to accumulation of VLCFA in various tissues and blood plasma leading to either rapidly progressive leukodystrophy (cerebral ALD), progressive adrenomyeloneuropathy (AMN), or isolated primary adrenal insufficiency (Addison’s disease). We report two distinct single nucleotide deletions in the ABCD1 gene, c.253delC [p.Arg85Glyfs*18] in exon 1, leading to both cerebral ALD and to AMN phenotype in one family, and c.1275delA [p.Phe426Leufs*15] in exon 4, leading to AMN and primary adrenal insufficiency in a second family. For the latter variant, we demonstrate reduced mRNA expression and a complete absence of the ABCD1 protein in PBMC. Distinct mRNA and protein expression in the index patient and heterozygous carriers does not associate with VLCFA concentration in plasma, which is in line with the absence of genotype–phenotype correlation in X-ALD.
Novel Biomarkers for Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Colorectal Cancer: An Interplay between Metabolic Dysregulation and Excessive Inflammation
Authors: Salla Mohamed , Guo Jimmy , Joshi Harshad , Gordon Marilyn , Dooky Hitesh , Lai Justine , Capicio Samantha , Armstrong Heather , Valcheva Rosica , Dyck Jason R. B. , Thiesen Aducio , Wine Eytan , Dieleman Levinus A. , Baksh Shairaz
Published: March 2023

Persistent inflammation can trigger altered epigenetic, inflammatory, and bioenergetic states. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is an idiopathic disease characterized by chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, with evidence of subsequent metabolic syndrome disorder. Studies have demonstrated that as many as 42% of patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) who are found to have high-grade dysplasia, either already had colorectal cancer (CRC) or develop it within a short time. The presence of low-grade dysplasia is also predictive of CRC. Many signaling pathways are shared among IBD and CRC, including cell survival, cell proliferation, angiogenesis, and inflammatory signaling pathways. Current IBD therapeutics target a small subset of molecular drivers of IBD, with many focused on the inflammatory aspect of the pathways. Thus, there is a great need to identify biomarkers of both IBD and CRC, that can be predictive of therapeutic efficacy, disease severity, and predisposition to CRC. In this study, we explored the changes in biomarkers specific for inflammatory, metabolic, and proliferative pathways, to help determine the relevance to both IBD and CRC. Our analysis demonstrated, for the first time in IBD, the loss of the tumor suppressor protein Ras associated family protein 1A (RASSF1A), via epigenetic changes, the hyperactivation of the obligate kinase of the NOD2 pathogen recognition receptor (receptor interacting protein kinase 2 [RIPK2]), the loss of activation of the metabolic kinase, AMP activated protein kinase (AMPKα1), and, lastly, the activation of the transcription factor and kinase Yes associated protein (YAP) kinase, that is involved in proliferation of cells. The expression and activation status of these four elements are mirrored in IBD, CRC, and IBD-CRC patients and, importantly, in matched blood and biopsy samples. The latter would suggest that biomarker analysis can be performed non-invasively, to understand IBD and CRC, without the need for invasive and costly endoscopic analysis. This study, for the first time, illustrates the need to understand IBD or CRC beyond an inflammatory perspective and the value of therapeutics directed to reset altered proliferative and metabolic states within the colon. The use of such therapeutics may truly drive patients into remission.