bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Yeast One-Hybrid Screening to Identify Transcription Factors for IbMYB1-4 in the Purple-Fleshed Sweet Potato (Ipomoea batatas [L.] Lam.)
Authors: Fu Danwen , Yang Shaohua , Liu Rui , Gao Feng
Published: July 2023

IbMYB1 is a transcription factor involved in the biosynthesis of anthocyanin in the purple-fleshed sweet potato. So far, few studies have investigated transcription factors that are upstream of the promoter IbMYB1-4. In this study, a yeast one-hybrid screening aimed at identifying transcription factors upstream of the promoter IbMYB1-4 was performed in the storage roots of the purple-fleshed sweet potato, and IbPDC, IbERF1, and IbPGP19 were identified as upstream binding proteins for the promoter IbMYB1-4. A dual luciferase reporter assay, and yeast one-hybrid assays, were employed to confirm the interaction of these binding proteins with promoters. IbERF1 was found to be an upstream transcription factor for the promoter IbMYB1, and is implicated in the biosynthesis of anthocyanin in the purple-fleshed sweet potato. IbERF1 plays a major role in the biosynthesis of anthocyanin in the purple-fleshed sweet potato.
A Comparative Analysis of NOX4 Protein Expression in Malignant and Non-Malignant Thyroid Tumors
Authors: Fenniche Salma , Oukabli Mohamed , Oubaddou Yassire , Chahdi Hafsa , Damiri Amal , Alghuzlan Abir , Laraqui Abdelilah , Dakka Nadia , Bakri Youssef , Dupuy Corinne , Ameziane El Hassani Rabii
Published: July 2023

The comparative analysis of the expression of the reactive oxygen species-generating NADPH oxidase NOX4 from TCGA data shows that the NOX4 transcript is upregulated in papillary thyroid carcinomas (PTC)-BRAFV600E tumors compared to PTC-BRAFwt tumors. However, a comparative analysis of NOX4 at the protein level in malignant and non-malignant tumors is missing. We explored NOX4 protein expression by immunohistochemistry staining in malignant tumors (28 classical forms of PTC (C-PTC), 17 follicular variants of PTC (F-PTC), and three anaplastic thyroid carcinomas (ATCs)) and in non-malignant tumors (six lymphocytic thyroiditis, four Graves’ disease, ten goiters, and 20 hyperplasias). We detected the BRAFV600E mutation by Sanger sequencing and digital droplet PCR. The results show that NOX4 was found to be higher (score ≥ 2) in C-PTC (92.9%) compared to F-PTC (52.9%) and ATC (33.3%) concerning malignant tumors. Interestingly, all C-PTC-BRAFV600E expressed a high score for NOX4 at the protein level, strengthening the positive correlation between the BRAFV600E mutation and NOX4 expression. In addition, independent of the mutational status of BRAF, we observed that 90% of C-PTC infiltrating tumors showed high NOX4 expression, suggesting that NOX4 may be considered a complementary biomarker in PTC aggressiveness. Interestingly, NOX4 was highly expressed in non-malignant thyroid diseases with different subcellular localizations.
Training Modifications in Endurance Athletes Due to COVID-19 Restrictions
Authors: Nijjar Birinder Singh , Shah Meena , Moss Kamiah , Kreutzer Andreas , Graybeal Austin J. , Braun-Trocchio Robyn , Zhang Yan , Porter Ryan R.
Published: July 2023

The aim of this study was to determine which characteristics of recreational, collegiate, and professional endurance athletes were associated with training changes due to COVID-19 safety restrictions. A Qualtrics survey was distributed to endurance athletes around the world from June 2020 to February 2021. Significant differences between athlete characteristics and changes in training status were determined using a Chi-squared test (significance p < 0.05). Approximately 66% of the 331 endurance athletes changed their training due to restrictions. Significant group differences were found for age, sex, prior coaching status, prior use of a training program, and athlete primary sport compared to the whole sample. Understanding these factors may allow athletes/coaches to approach training in a different way to help minimize or prevent the effects of detraining for a greater portion of athletes should a COVID-19 variant or any other pandemic emerge in the future.
Synthesis, Structure, and Characterizations of a Heterobimetallic Heptanuclear Complex [Pb2Co5(acac)14]
Authors: Zhang Yuxuan , Wei Zheng , Dikarev Evgeny V.
Published: July 2023

An unusual heterobimetallic volatile compound [Pb2Co5(acac)14] was synthesized by the gas phase/solid-state technique. The preparation can be readily scaled up using the solution approach. X-ray powder diffraction, ICP-OES analysis, and DART mass spectrometry were engaged to confirm the composition and purity of heterobimetallic complex. The composition is unique among the large family of lead(tin): transition metal = 2:1, 1:1, and 1:2 β-diketonates compounds that are mostly represented by coordination polymers. The molecular structure of the complex was elucidated by synchrotron single crystal X-ray diffraction to reveal the unique heptanuclear moiety {Co(acac)2[Pb(acac)2-Co(acac)2-Co(acac)2]2} built upon bridging interactions of acetylacetonate oxygens to neighboring metal centers that bring their coordination numbers to six. The appearance of unique heptanuclear assembly can be attributed to the fact that the [Co(acac)2] units feature both cis- and trans-bis-bridging modes, making the polynuclear moiety rather flexible. This type of octahedral coordination is relatively unique among known lead(tin)-3d transition metal β-diketonates. Due to the high-volatility, [Pb2Co5(acac)14] can be potentially applied as a MOCVD precursor for the low-temperature preparation of lead-containing functional materials.
The Effect of Statins on the Incidence and Prognosis of Bladder Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Symvoulidis Panagiotis , Tsioutis Constantinos , Zamboglou Constantinos , Agouridis Aris P.
Published: July 2023

Background: Statins are widely used due to their ability to lower plasma cholesterol and offer protection from the effects of atherosclerosis. However, their role in urology and specifically bladder cancer remains unclear. We aimed to systematically address this issue in the literature and determine any possible effects of statin therapy on bladder cancer. Methods: We searched MEDLINE (PubMed) and Cochrane Library databases for records up to 26 March 2023, for studies evaluating the effects of statins on urinary bladder cancer (UBC). We included all randomized controlled trials (RCTs), cohorts, and case-control studies that were conducted on the adult population. PROSPERO registration number: CRD42023407795. Results: Database searches returned 2251 reports, and after thorough investigation and assessment for eligibility, 32 reports were included in the analysis. Of them, 4 were RCTs, 6 were case-control studies, and 22 were cohort studies. Our qualitative analysis demonstrated no association between statin administration and UBC local control, recurrence, survival, or mortality, or between statin administration and bacille Calmette–Guérin (BCG) immunotherapy effectiveness. A meta-analysis of 10 trials revealed a non-significant reduction of 11% in UBC risk among users compared with non-users in RCTs (RR: 0.89, 95% CI 0.68–1.16, p = 0.37) and a non-significant increase of 32% of UBC risk among statin users compared with non-users in the analysis of the cohort studies (RR: 1.32, 95% CI 0.76–2.30, p = 0.33). Conclusions: Our results provide strong evidence to support the neutral effect of statins on UBC local control, recurrence, survival, and mortality, and on BCG immunotherapy. Our meta-analysis revealed a non-significant effect on UBC risk among statin users when compared with non-users, indicating no statin effect on UBC incidence and overall prognosis.
The Impact of Liquid Biopsies Positive for EGFR Mutations on Overall Survival in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Patients
Authors: Roldan Ruiz Jonnathan , Fuentes Gago Marta , Chinchilla Tabora Luis , Gonzalez Morais Idalia , Sayagués José , Abad Hernández Mar , Cordovilla Pérez Maria , Ludeña de la Cruz Maria , del Barco Morillo Edel , Rodriguez Gonzalez Marta
Published: July 2023

In recent years, non-small cell lung cancer treatment has been revolutionized. EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors and our improved understanding of its alterations have driven new diagnostic strategies. Liquid biopsies have emerged as a useful tool in these contexts, showing potential utility in early diagnosis combined with low-dose CT scans, as well as potential in monitoring treatment response and predicting the development of patients. We studied the circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) of 38 EGFR-mutated non-small cell lung cancer patients at diagnosis in different moments of their disease by liquid biopsy techniques. Our results show that mean overall survival was significantly lower when a liquid biopsy was positive for the detection of EGFR mutations compared with wild-type patients in their liquid biopsy in both univariate (29 ± 4 vs. 104 ± 19 months; p = 0.004) and multivariate analysis (p = 0.008). Taking this into consideration, liquid biopsies could be key to improving the control of this disease.
Current Data and New Insights into the Genetic Factors of Atherogenic Dyslipidemia Associated with Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Butnariu Lăcramioara Ionela , Gorduza Eusebiu Vlad , Țarcă Elena , Pânzaru Monica-Cristina , Popa Setalia , Stoleriu Simona , Lupu Vasile Valeriu , Lupu Ancuta , Cojocaru Elena , Trandafir Laura Mihaela , Moisă Ștefana Maria , Florea Andreea , Stătescu Laura , Bădescu Minerva Codruța
Published: July 2023

Atherogenic dyslipidemia plays a critical role in the development of metabolic syndrome (MetS), being one of its major components, along with central obesity, insulin resistance, and hypertension. In recent years, the development of molecular genetics techniques and extended analysis at the genome or exome level has led to important progress in the identification of genetic factors (heritability) involved in lipid metabolism disorders associated with MetS. In this review, we have proposed to present the current knowledge related to the genetic etiology of atherogenic dyslipidemia, but also possible challenges for future studies. Data from the literature provided by candidate gene-based association studies or extended studies, such as genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and whole exome sequencing (WES,) have revealed that atherogenic dyslipidemia presents a marked genetic heterogeneity (monogenic or complex, multifactorial). Despite sustained efforts, many of the genetic factors still remain unidentified (missing heritability). In the future, the identification of new genes and the molecular mechanisms by which they intervene in lipid disorders will allow the development of innovative therapies that act on specific targets. In addition, the use of polygenic risk scores (PRS) or specific biomarkers to identify individuals at increased risk of atherogenic dyslipidemia and/or other components of MetS will allow effective preventive measures and personalized therapy.
Awareness, Attitudes, and Perceptions of Oral Healthcare among First Year Dental, Medical, and Nursing Students
Authors: Lay Tassya , Nurchasanah Fadiza , Wanda Dessie , Wardhany Indriasti Indah , Agustin Rulliana , Haresaku Satoru , Wimardhani Yuniardini Septorini , Mandasari Masita
Published: July 2023

Background: It has been reported that poor oral health can worsen general health conditions. Good collaboration between health professionals is important to provide proper oral healthcare. Thus, there is a need for oral healthcare interprofessional education (IPE). This study aimed to determine the baseline level of awareness, attitudes, and perceptions of oral healthcare among first-year students of dentistry, medicine, and nursing at Universitas Indonesia. Method and Participants: A cross-sectional descriptive analytical study using a previously published questionnaire was conducted involving 442 students, consisting of dental students (DS), medical students (MS), and nursing students (NS) in Universitas Indonesia. Results: Most students have shown good oral healthcare awareness, attitudes, and perception with no statistically significant difference between the groups (p < 0.05). The majority of the students did not perceive that (1) geriatric and nursing knowledge are required to practice oral care, (2) oral healthcare should be provided in cancer hospitals, and (3) oral healthcare can prevent cardiovascular disease and improve anorexia. Conclusions: This study showed that there were aspects of oral healthcare that should be improved in all student groups. Thus, oral healthcare IPE should be given to all students working in healthcare to develop knowledge and interprofessional collaboration in oral healthcare.
Stronger Quantum Speed Limit for Mixed Quantum States
Authors: Bagchi Shrobona , Thakuria Dimpi , Pati Arun Kumar
Published: July 2023

In this paper, we derive a quantum speed limit for unitary evolution for the case of mixed quantum states using the stronger uncertainty relation for mixed quantum states. This bound can be optimized over different choices of Hermitian operators for a better bound. We illustrate this with some examples and show its better performance with respect to three existing bounds for mixed quantum states.
H∞ Optimization of Three-Element-Type Dynamic Vibration Absorber with Inerter and Negative Stiffness Based on the Particle Swarm Algorithm
Authors: Gao Ting , Li Jing , Zhu Shaotao , Yang Xiaodong , Zhao Hongzhen
Published: July 2023

Dynamic vibration absorbers (DVAs) are extensively used in the prevention of building and bridge vibrations, as well as in vehicle suspension and other fields, due to their excellent damping performance. The reliable optimization of DVA parameters is key to improve their performance. In this paper, an H∞ optimization problem of a novel three-element-type DVA model including an inerter device and a grounded negative stiffness spring is studied by combining a traditional theory and an intelligent algorithm. Firstly, to ensure the system’s stability, the specific analytical expressions of the optimal tuning frequency ratio, stiffness ratio, and approximate damping ratio with regard to the mass ratio and inerter–mass ratio are determined through fixed-point theory, which provides an iterative range for algorithm optimization. Secondly, the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm is used to further optimize the four parameters of DVA simultaneously. The effects of the traditional fixed-point theory and the intelligent PSO algorithm are comprehensively compared and analyzed. The results verify that the effect of the coupling of the traditional theory and the intelligent algorithm is better than that of fixed-point theory alone and can make the two resonance peaks on the amplitude–frequency response curves almost equal, which is difficult to achieve using fixed-point theory alone. Finally, we compare the proposed model with other DVA models under harmonic and random excitation. By comparing the amplitude–frequency curves, stroke lengths, mean square responses, time history diagrams, variances and decrease ratios, it is clear that the established DVA has a good vibration absorption effect. The research results provide theoretical and algorithm support for designing more effective DVA models of the same type in engineering applications.
Use of Composite Multivariate Multiscale Permutation Fuzzy Entropy to Diagnose the Faults of Rolling Bearing
Authors: Yuan Qiang , Lv Mingchen , Zhou Ruiping , Liu Hong , Liang Chongkun , Cheng Lijiao
Published: July 2023

The study focuses on the fault signals of rolling bearings, which are characterized by nonlinearity, periodic impact, and low signal-to-noise ratio. The advantages of entropy calculation in analyzing time series data were combined with the high calculation accuracy of Multiscale Fuzzy Entropy (MFE) and the strong noise resistance of Multiscale Permutation Entropy (MPE), a multivariate coarse-grained form was introduced, and the coarse-grained process was improved. The Composite Multivariate Multiscale Permutation Fuzzy Entropy (CMvMPFE) method was proposed to solve the problems of low accuracy, large entropy perturbation, and information loss in the calculation process of fault feature parameters. This method extracts the fault characteristics of rolling bearings more comprehensively and accurately. The CMvMPFE method was used to calculate the entropy value of the rolling bearing experimental fault data, and Support Vector Machine (SVM) was used for fault diagnosis analysis. By comparing with MPFE, the Composite Multiscale Permutation Fuzzy Entropy (CMPFE) and the Multivariate Multiscale Permutation Fuzzy Entropy (MvMPFE) methods, the results of the calculations show that the CMvMPFE method can extract rolling bearing fault characteristics more comprehensively and accurately, and it also has good robustness.
Faithful Finance: Unlocking Banking Islamization in Afghanistan
Authors: Disli Mustafa , Hatam Ahmad , Jalaly Shakir
Published: July 2023

This paper explores the challenges and prospects associated with the adoption of Islamic banking in Afghanistan. Despite the global growth and acceptance of Islamic banking by approximately 50 countries by 1997, Afghanistan only embraced it between 2008–2009. The decision to convert conventional banks to Islamic ones, driven by the involvement of interest rates (riba) in the prevailing system, necessitates a thorough examination of the challenges and the need for an appropriate response. The study employs qualitative, analytical, and exploratory methods, reviewing secondary sources and conducting unstructured interviews with key stakeholders, including officials from the Da Afghanistan Bank (DAB), staff of Islamic banking institutions, experts in Islamic banking and finance, and consumers. The findings reveal that the challenges in promoting Islamic banking in Afghanistan are more complex and multi-layered than commonly understood, stemming from the legal system, regulatory capacities and mindset, banking services, and public perception. The paper emphasizes the importance of addressing these challenges comprehensively to safeguard the already fragile economic and financial sector. Failure to do so may lead to further deterioration. This research contributes to the existing body of knowledge by shedding light on the unique challenges and prospects of Islamic banking in Afghanistan, providing valuable insights for policymakers, regulators, and practitioners in shaping an effective transformation strategy.
Design of a Direct-Liquid-Cooled Motor and Operation Strategy for the Cooling System
Authors: Keuter Ralf Johannes , Niebuhr Florian , Nozinski Marius , Krüger Eike , Kabelac Stephan , Ponick Bernd
Published: July 2023

To make an all-electric aircraft possible, both high power densities and efficiencies are needed. However, particularly high demands are also placed on the thermal management system. Often, the electric motor and cooling system are considered without co-optimization. Particularly in the case of electric motors with conductors directly cooled by a liquid, there is great potential for optimization, since the temperature-dependent Joule losses determine the largest part of the losses. This publication shows the main influencing parameters for the electric motor and cooling system: coolant speed and winding temperature. In addition, the influence of the cooling system control during a flight mission is demonstrated and its potential in mass reduction is quantified. It could be shown that with a low utilized electric motor the maximum winding temperature of 130 °C is beneficial, the cooling system should work in almost all operation points in its sized operation and the mass of the heat exchanger and pump is negligible compared to the mass of the electric motor and energy storage.
A Techno-Economic Study for Off-Grid Green Hydrogen Production Plants: The Case of Chile
Authors: León Marcelo , Silva Javier , Ortíz-Soto Rodrigo , Carrasco Samuel
Published: July 2023

In this study, we present a pre-feasibility analysis that examines the viability of implementing autonomous green hydrogen production plants in two strategic regions of Chile. With abundant renewable energy resources and growing interest in decarbonization in Chile, this study aims to provide a comprehensive financial analysis from the perspective of project initiators. The assessment includes determining the optimal sizing of an alkaline electrolyzer stack, seawater desalination system, and solar and wind renewable energy farms and the focus is on conducting a comprehensive financial analysis from the perspective of project initiators to assess project profitability using key economic indicators such as net present value (NPV). The analyses involve determining appropriate sizing of an alkaline electrolyzer stack, a seawater desalination system, and solar and wind renewable energy farms. Assuming a base case production of 1 kiloton per year of hydrogen, the capital expenditures (CAPEX) and operating expenses (OPEX) are determined. Then, the manufacturing and production costs per kilogram of green hydrogen are calculated, resulting in values of USD 3.53 kg−1 (utilizing wind energy) and USD 5.29 kg−1 (utilizing photovoltaic solar energy). Cash flows are established by adjusting the sale price of hydrogen to achieve a minimum expected return on investment of 4% per year, yielding minimum prices of USD 7.84 kg−1 (with wind energy) and USD 11.10 kg−1 (with photovoltaic solar energy). Additionally, a sensitivity analysis is conducted to assess the impact of variations in investment and operational costs. This research provides valuable insights into the financial feasibility of green hydrogen production in Chile, contributing to understanding renewable energy-based hydrogen projects and their potential economic benefits. These results can provide a reference for future investment decisions and the global development of green hydrogen production plants.
Research on Product Yield Prediction and Benefit of Tuning Diesel Hydrogenation Conversion Device Based on Data-Driven System
Authors: Zheng Qianqian , Fan Yijun , Zhou Zhi , Jiang Hongbo , Zhou Xiaolong
Published: July 2023

In the refining process, a large amount of data are generated in daily production, and how to make full use of these data to improve the accuracy of simulation is the key to improving the operation level of refineries. At the same time, with the increasing environmental regulations and the improvement of gasoline and diesel quality standards, the ratio of diesel to gasoline is also changing with people’s demand for fuel consumption. Catalytic cracking light cycle oil (LCO) hydrogenation conversion technology (react LCO into gasoline, RLG) can produce modified diesel with high-octane gasoline, a high cetane number, and a low sulfur content, which improves the added value of the product. In this article, based on the production and operation data of a 1 million tons/year RLG device, a device yield prediction model was established using a deep neural network (DNN) algorithm, and the model was further optimized using a genetic algorithm (GA) to maximize the economic benefits of the device. As a result, the gasoline production yield increased by more than 3%. The experimental results show that the established model has a good reference value for improving the economic benefits of the RLG device.
ANN-Based Method for Urban Canopy Temperature Prediction and Building Energy Simulation with Urban Heat Island Effect in Consideration
Authors: Tariku Fitsum , Gharib Mombeni Afshin
Published: July 2023

The process of urbanization resulting from population growth is causing a transformation of natural landscapes into built environments, and contributing to a significant rise in air and surface temperatures in urban areas, resulting in what is known as the urban heat island (UHI). Ignoring the UHI effect and use of weather data from open fields and airport locations for energy and thermal comfort analysis can lead to over- and underestimation of heating and cooling loads, improper sizing of equipment, inefficiencies in the mechanical systems operation, and occupants’ thermal discomfort. There is a need for computationally efficient urban canopy temperature prediction models that account for the urban morphology and characteristics of the study area. This paper presents the development and application of an artificial neural network (ANN)-based method for generating hourly urban canopy temperature and local wind speed for energy simulation. It was used to predict the urban canopy temperature of a neighborhood in downtown Vancouver and the resulting building energy consumption and indoor temperature in a typical building in the area. The results showed that the UHI effect increased the total cooling energy demand by 23% and decreased the total heating energy consumption by 29%, resulting in an overall negative effect on the total energy demand of the building, which was 18% higher in the urban area. The UHI effect also increased the number of hours of indoor temperature above the cooling set point by 7.6%. The methodology can be applied to determine the urban canopy temperature of neighborhoods in different climate zones and determine the varying urban heat island effects associated with the locations.
Impact of the Lubricant on a Modified Revolving Vane Expander (M-RVE) in an Organic Rankine Cycle System
Authors: Naseri Ali , Moradi Ramin , Cioccolanti Luca , Subiantoro Alison
Published: July 2023

The expansion device is the critical component of micro-to-small scale organic Rankine cycle (ORC) systems, substantially affecting system efficiency and cost. Low isentropic efficiency and lubrication requirements are the main issues associated with using volumetric expanders in ORC systems. Despite lubrication contributing to reducing internal leakages in an expander, it may compromise the performance of the ORC system by adversely affecting the evaporator’s thermal capacity. This study tests a recently developed and modified revolving vane expander (M-RVE) in a micro-scale ORC test rig by implementing an adjustable oil mass flow rate. The impact of the lubricant oil on the performance of the M-RVE prototype is investigated within a wide range of oil circulation rates (OCR). The results demonstrate a negligible improvement in the filling factor for OCRs higher than 1%. Moreover, the shaft power is not considerably sensitive to OCR, while the calculated isentropic efficiency of the expander improves with OCR. Furthermore, the impact of the lubricant oil on the performance of the evaporator is studied, assuming the exact OCR as the expander and measured temperature and pressure similar to the pure refrigerant for the lubricant-refrigerant mixture in the evaporator. The study shows that the evaporator capacity is penalized with OCR, especially for values higher than 1%. Hence, an OCR of about 1% is a good compromise, and it can be used as a guideline for designing revolving vane expanders for micro-scale ORC systems without a dedicated lubricant oil circuit.
Development of a Biomass Component Prediction Model Based on Elemental and Proximate Analyses
Authors: Park Sun Yong , Oh Kwang Cheol , Kim Seok Jun , Cho La Hoon , Jeon Young Kwang , Kim DaeHyun
Published: July 2023

Emerging global environmental pollution issues have caused a reduction in coal utilization, leading to an increased research focus on biomass use as an alternative. However, due to the low heat values of biomass, studies in this field are still in progress. Biomass primarily comprises cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin. To determine the composition of these three components, the measurement methods recommended by TAPPI (Technical Association of the Pulp and Paper Industry) and NREL (National Renewable Energy Laboratory) are typically employed involving equipment such as HPLC. However, these methods are time consuming. In this study, we proposed a model for predicting cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin contents based on elemental and industrial analyses. A dataset comprising 174 samples was used to develop this model. This was validated using 25 additional samples. The R2P values for cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin were 0.6104–0.6362, 0.4803–0.5112, and 0.7247–0.7914, respectively; however, the R2CV values obtained from the validation results were 0.7387–0.7837, 0.3280–0.4004, and 0.7427–0.7757, respectively. The optimal models selected for cellulose, lignin, and hemicellulose were C1, L2, and 100-(C1-L2) or H2, respectively. Our predictions for woody and herbaceous biomass, including torrefied samples, should be applied with caution to other biomass types due to the potential accuracy limitations. To enhance the prediction accuracy, future research should broaden the range of biomass types considered and gather more data specifically related to woody and herbaceous biomass.
Design Simulation and Performance Evaluation of a Standalone Photovoltaic System for a Health Care Facility in Malaysia
Authors: Habeeb Amaal , Hizam Hashim , Othman Mohammad Lutfi , Abdul Wahab Noor Izzri , Rohouma Wesam
Published: July 2023

Standalone photovoltaic (PV) systems are crucial for providing reliable, cost-effective, and sustainable energy to remote or off-grid locations with limited or no access to the traditional electrical grid. In this context, the sizing of a standalone PV system for a remote health clinic involves determining the clinic’s power requirements and matching them with an appropriate PV system’s capacity. Maximum power point tracking (MPPT) is a critical aspect of standalone PV systems, as it optimizes the PV system’s power output by adjusting the PV array’s operating point to the maximum power point (MPP) of the PV module. However, the non-linear behavior of PV systems due to exposure to changing climate conditions and partial shading can hide some faults, making traditional protection devices incapable of detecting them. Therefore, the design of an optimal simulation model of a properly sized standalone PV system is important for simulating and collecting the necessary data to diagnose faults. In this study, a standalone PV system for a hypothetical clinic in Malaysia is proposed, and it is sized based on peak sun hours. Its simulation model is built using MATLAB/Simulink (R2018b). The proposed simulation system’s performance was evaluated considering the proper design of the PV system’s boost converter within the changing conditions, and its ability to harvest maximum power points is considered a criterion for evaluating the performance. Various scenarios of uniform irradiance, uniform temperatures, shading effects, and sequential partial shading scenarios were implemented to evaluate the proposed simulation model. Results show that the proposed simulation model is suited to simulating different tests as it can harvest maximum power in all test scenarios.
Assessing the Effects of Smart Parking Infrastructure on the Electrical Power System
Authors: Medved Dusan , Bena Lubomir , Oliinyk Maksym , Dzmura Jaroslav , Mazur Damian , Martinko David
Published: July 2023

The forthcoming surge in electric vehicle (EV) adoption demands the comprehensive advancement of associated charging infrastructure. In this study, an exploration of EV charging’s impact on the power distribution system is conducted via the simulation of a parking lot equipped with six distinct types of EVs, each showcasing unique charging curves, charging power, and battery capacities. A charging profile is synthesized and compared with laboratory-obtained data to ascertain the implications on the grid. To further understand the effects of smart parking on the power distribution system, a mathematical algorithm was created and applied to a segment of an urban electrical grid that includes 70 private residences. Basic electrical parameters were computed using the node voltage method. Four scenarios were simulated: (1) the existing distribution system, (2) the current system plus smart parking, (3) the current system plus 50% of houses equipped with 3.5 kW photovoltaic installations, and (4) the current system plus photovoltaics and smart parking. This paper examines the core distribution system parameters, namely voltage and current, across these four scenarios, and the simulation results are extensively detailed herein.
Analysis of Interaction and Flow Pattern of Multiple Bubbles in Shear-Thinning Viscoelastic Fluids
Authors: He Hongbin , Liu Zhuang , Ji Jingbo , Li Shaobai
Published: July 2023

A numerical study was conducted on the interaction of bubbles with different diameters and arrangements in shear-thinning viscoelastic fluids using OpenFOAM. The Volume of Fluid (VOF) method combined with the surface tension model was used to track the gas–liquid interface, and the rheological properties of the fluid were characterized with the Giesekus model. The numerical results are corresponded with the previous references, verifying the correctness of the simulation method. The influences of the initial bubble diameter, horizontal spacing, and arrangement on the motion state of three parallel bubbles were studied in detail. The flow pattern of the bubble rising was analyzed and compared with the motion state of parallel unequal double bubbles. As the diameter of the bubbles increases, the interaction among three equal size bubbles is changed from coalescence to detachment. Changing the diameter of one of the bubbles will significantly affect the movement of the larger diameter bubble, which is due to the enhancement in kinetic energy. The final state of some arrangement ways is consistent with the phenomenon of unequal double bubbles. The shear thinning effect, the velocity difference between bubbles, and the flow field around bubbles are considered the main reasons that decide the interaction between bubbles.
Hosting Capacity Assessment of South African Residential Low-Voltage Networks for Electric Vehicle Charging
Authors: Umoh Vincent , Adebiyi Abayomi , Moloi Katleho
Published: July 2023

The necessity for environmentally friendly transportation systems has prompted the proliferation of electric vehicles (EVs) in low-voltage (LV) distribution networks. However, large-scale integration and simultaneous charging of EVs can create power quality challenges for the distribution grid. It is therefore important to assess the impact of connecting EVs for charging in existing distribution networks and determine the hosting capacity (HC) of such a network. This paper uses a deterministic time-series method and stochastic method based on a simplified Monte Carlo simulation to estimate the HC of single-phase and three-phase EV charging, respectively, for a South African low-voltage distribution network containing 21 households. Voltage drop and equipment loading are the performance indices (PI) considered for the impact assessment and HC estimation in this study. The impact assessment result confirms that increasing EV charging penetration will result in a corresponding movement of the PIs toward the allowable limits. The results show that the HC is 5–8 three-phase EVs charging simultaneously for the worst-case scenario and 9–13 EVs for the best-case scenario. Furthermore, the single-phase HC for the popular 3.7 kW EV charger is 15 and 8 EVs for the best-case and worst-case scenarios, respectively. The result showing the seasonal variation in HC and for other EV charging power is also presented. The difference in HC for the worst-case and best-case scenarios portrays the effect that the location of charging has on the HC.
Separation of α-Lactalbumin-Enriched Fractions from Caprine and Ovine Native Whey Concentrate by Combining Membrane and High-Pressure Processing
Authors: Romo María , Castellari Massimo , Bou Ricard , Gou Pere , Felipe Xavier
Published: July 2023

Whey from goat and sheep have been gaining attention in the last few years for their nutritional properties. Unfortunately, β-Lg, not found in human milk, may trigger infant allergies if used in infant food formulations, so there is a growing interest in developing ingredients derived from whey with higher α-La/β-Lg ratios. The objective of this work was to study the effect of high-pressure processing (HPP) on caprine and ovine native whey concentrates (NWC) in order to obtain α-Lactalbumin (α-La)-enriched fractions. NWCs were treated at 600 MPa (23 °C) for 2, 4, and 15 min and two pH conditions were studied (physiological pH and pH 4.60). The concentration of β-Lg in supernatant fraction after HPP significantly decreased after 2 min of treatment, while the concentration of α-La was unchanged in both goat and sheep samples. Longer HPP processing times (up to 15 min) progressively increased α-La purification degree but also decreased the α-La yield. Caprine and ovine NWCs treated at physiological pH provided better α-La yield, α-La purification degree, and higher β-Lg precipitation degrees than the corresponding acidified samples, while the corresponding NWC supernatant (NWCsup) showed lower values for both surface hydrophobicity and total free thiol indices, suggesting a higher extent of protein aggregation. Effects of sample acidification and the HPP treatment were opposite to those previously reported on bovine NWC, so further characterization of caprine and ovine β-Lg should be carried out to understand their different behavior.
De Novo Mining and Validating Novel Microsatellite Markers to Assess Genetic Diversity in Maruca vitrata (F.), a Legume Pod Borer
Authors: Mahalle Rashmi , Bosamia Tejas , Chakravarty Snehel , Srivastava Kartikeya , Meena Radhe , Kadam Ulhas , Srivastava Chandra
Published: July 2023

Maruca vitrata (Fabricius) is an invasive insect pest capable of causing enormous economic losses to a broad spectrum of leguminous crops. Microsatellites are valuable molecular markers for population genetic studies; however, an inadequate number of M. vitrata microsatellite loci are available to carry out population association studies. Thus, we utilized this insect’s public domain databases for mining expressed sequence tags (EST)-derived microsatellite markers. In total, 234 microsatellite markers were identified from 10053 unigenes. We discovered that trinucleotide repeats were the most predominant microsatellite motifs (61.53%), followed by dinucleotide repeats (23.50%) and tetranucleotide repeats (14.95%). Based on the analysis, twenty-five markers were selected for validation in M. vitrata populations collected from various regions of India. The number of alleles (Na), observed heterozygosity (Ho), and expected heterozygosity (He) ranged from 2 to 5; 0.00 to 0.80; and 0.10 to 0.69, respectively. The polymorphic loci showed polymorphism information content (PIC), ranging from 0.09 to 0.72. Based on the genetic distance matrix, the unrooted neighbor-joining dendrogram differentiated the selected populations into two discrete groups. The SSR markers developed and validated in this study will be helpful in population-level investigations of M. vitrata to understand the gene flow, demography, dispersal patterns, biotype differentiation, and host dynamics.
Extensive Independent Amplification of Platy-1 Retroposons in Tamarins, Genus Saguinus
Authors: Storer Jessica M. , Walker Jerilyn A. , Beckstrom Thomas O. , Batzer Mark A.
Published: July 2023

Platy-1 retroposons are short interspersed elements (SINEs) unique to platyrrhine primates. Discovered in the common marmoset (Callithrix jacchus) genome in 2016, these 100 bp mobile element insertions (MEIs) appeared to be novel drivers of platyrrhine evolution, with over 2200 full-length members across 62 different subfamilies, and strong evidence of ongoing proliferation in C. jacchus. Subsequent characterization of Platy-1 elements in Aotus, Saimiri and Cebus genera, suggested that the widespread mobilization detected in marmoset (family Callithrichidae) was perhaps an anomaly. Two additional Callithrichidae genomes are now available, a scaffold level genome assembly for Saguinus imperator (tamarin; SagImp_v1) and a chromosome-level assembly for Saguinus midas (Midas tamarin; ASM2_v1). Here, we report that each tamarin genome contains over 11,000 full-length Platy-1 insertions, about 1150 are shared by both Saguinus tamarins, 7511 are unique to S. imperator, and another 8187 are unique to S. midas. Roughly 325 are shared among the three callithrichids. We identified six new Platy-1 subfamilies derived from Platy-1-8, with the youngest new subfamily, Platy-1-8c_Saguinus, being the primary source of the Saguinus amplification burst. This constitutes the largest expansion of Platy-1 MEIs reported to date and the most extensive independent SINE amplification between two closely related species.
Investigating the Association of Pain Intensity and Health Status among Older US Adults with Pain Who Used Opioids in 2020 Using the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey
Authors: Axon David R. , Maldonado Taylor
Published: July 2023

The number of older United States (US) adults is increasing, yet extra life years are not always spent in good health. This study explored the relationship between pain intensity and health status among US adults aged ≥50 with pain who used an opioid in the 2020 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey using multivariable logistic regression adjusting for demographic, economic, and health variables. Most (60.2%) older US adult opioid users with pain reported having good health (versus 39.8% poor health). In the fully adjusted analysis, those with extreme pain (odds ratio (OR) = 0.19, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.10, 0.35) and quite a bit of pain (OR = 0.34, 95% CI = 0.19, 0.60) had lower odds of reporting good health compared to those with little pain. There was no statistical relationship between health status for moderate versus little pain. In addition, males (versus females; OR = 0.61, 95% CI = 0.40, 0.91), white race (versus not white; OR = 0.43, 95% CI = 0.22, 0.84), education ≤high school (versus >high school; OR = 0.61, 95% CI = 0.41, 0.92), and current smoker (versus non-smoker; OR = 0.55, 95% CI = 0.32, 0.93) were associated with lower odds of reporting good health. Being employed (versus unemployed; OR = 1.88, 95% CI = 1.06, 3.33), having <2 chronic conditions (versus ≥2; OR = 4.38, 95% CI = 1.91, 10.02), and doing regular physical activity (versus not; OR = 2.69, 95% CI = 1.73, 4.19) were associated with higher odds of reporting good health. These variables should be considered when assessing the health needs and developing treatment plans for older US adult opioid users with pain.
Growth Monitoring and Promotion Index Development: A Novel Approach
Authors: Moyo Shamiso Alice , Mashau Ntsieni Stella , Makhado Lufuno
Published: July 2023

Background: There are few growth monitoring and promotion indexes, and currently none of them include any metrics that measure caregiver behaviours. No index to date combines the metrics of both community health worker activeness and caregiver barriers and facilitators towards growth monitoring and promotion (GMP). This study developed a new growth monitoring and promotion index and validated it using the Delphi Technique. Methods: The study began with phase 1, which was a scoping review of the literature on GMP indexes. Phase 2 involved a community health worker (CHW) survey which explored the process of GMP within the Umguza health system, and determined how knowledge of GMP by CHWs translated to frequency of activities. A barrier analysis was also conducted with caregivers of children under five to determine the barriers and facilitators towards GMP attendance by caregivers. Phase 3 was the construction of the index along with its validation, using the Delphi Technique where fifteen experts within the health and nutrition sector were consulted to analyse the constructs/variables of the index. Results: A growth monitoring and promotion index was developed and validated by several technical experts in the health and nutrition sector in Zimbabwe. Conclusions: A new index has been developed to improve the quality of growth monitoring and promotion activities within the communities.
Knowledge Tensor-Aided Breast Ultrasound Image Assistant Inference Framework
Authors: Li Guanghui , Xiao Lingli , Wang Guanying , Liu Ying , Liu Longzhong , Huang Qinghua
Published: July 2023

Breast cancer is one of the most prevalent cancers in women nowadays, and medical intervention at an early stage of cancer can significantly improve the prognosis of patients. Breast ultrasound (BUS) is a widely used tool for the early screening of breast cancer in primary care hospitals but it relies heavily on the ability and experience of physicians. Accordingly, we propose a knowledge tensor-based Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS)-score-assisted generalized inference model, which uses the BI-RADS score of senior physicians as the gold standard to construct a knowledge tensor model to infer the benignity and malignancy of breast tumors and axes the diagnostic results against those of junior physicians to provide an aid for breast ultrasound diagnosis. The experimental results showed that the diagnostic AUC of the knowledge tensor constructed using the BI-RADS characteristics labeled by senior radiologists achieved 0.983 (95% confidential interval (CI) = 0.975–0.992) for benign and malignant breast cancer, while the diagnostic performance of the knowledge tensor constructed using the BI-RADS characteristics labeled by junior radiologists was only 0.849 (95% CI = 0.823–0.876). With the knowledge tensor fusion, the AUC is improved to 0.887 (95% CI = 0.864–0.909). Therefore, our proposed knowledge tensor can effectively help reduce the misclassification of BI-RADS characteristics by senior radiologists and, thus, improve the diagnostic performance of breast-ultrasound-assisted diagnosis.
Synergistic Inhibitory Effect of Quercetin and Cyanidin-3O-Sophoroside on ABCB1
Authors: Singh Kuljeet , Patil Rajesh B. , Patel Vikas , Remenyik Judit , Hegedűs Tamás , Goda Katalin
Published: July 2023

The human ABCB1 (P-glycoprotein, Pgp) protein is an active exporter expressed in the plasma membrane of cells forming biological barriers. In accordance with its broad substrate spectrum and tissue expression pattern, it affects the pharmacokinetics of numerous chemotherapeutic drugs and it is involved in unwanted drug–drug interactions leading to side effects or toxicities. When expressed in tumor tissues, it contributes to the development of chemotherapy resistance in malignancies. Therefore, the understanding of the molecular details of the ligand–ABCB1 interactions is of crucial importance. In a previous study, we found that quercetin (QUR) hampers both the transport and ATPase activity of ABCB1, while cyandin-3O-sophroside (C3S) stimulates the ATPase activity and causes only a weak inhibition of substrate transport. In the current study, when QUR and C3S were applied together, both a stronger ATPase inhibition and a robust decrease in substrate transport were observed, supporting their synergistic ABCB1 inhibitory effect. Similar to cyclosporine A, a potent ABCB1 inhibitor, co-treatment with QUR and C3S shifted the conformational equilibrium to the “inward-facing” conformer of ABCB1, as it was detected by the conformation-selective UIC2 mAb. To gain deeper insight into the molecular details of ligand–ABCB1 interactions, molecular docking experiments and MD simulations were also carried out. Our in silico studies support that QUR and C3S can bind simultaneously to ABCB1. The most favourable ligand–ABCB1 interaction is obtained when C3S binds to the central substrate binding site and QUR occupies the “access tunnel”. Our results also highlight that the strong ABCB1 inhibitory effect of the combined treatment with QUR and C3S may be exploited in chemotherapy protocols for the treatment of multidrug-resistant tumors or for improving drug delivery through pharmacological barriers.