bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Global Tracking Sensorless Adaptive PI-PBC Design for Output Voltage Regulation in a Boost Converter Feeding a DC Microgrid
Authors: Gil-González Walter , Montoya Oscar Danilo , Riffo Sebastián , Restrepo Carlos , Muñoz Javier
Published: January 2023

The problem of the output voltage regulation in a DC-DC boost converter feeding a DC microgrid is addressed in this research via the passivity-based control theory with a proportional–integral action (PI-PBC). Two external input estimators were implemented in conjunction with the proposed controller to make it sensorless and adaptive. The first estimator corresponds to the immersion & invariance (I&I) approach applied to calculate the expected value of the DC load, which is modeled as an unknown DC current. The second estimator is based on the disturbance–observer (DO) approach, which reaches the value of the voltage input. The main advantage of both estimators is that these ensure exponential convergence under steady-state operating conditions, and their parametrization only requires the definition of an integral gain. A comparative analysis with simulations demonstrates that the proposed PI-PBC approach is effective in regulating/controlling the voltage profile in unknown DC loads as compared to the adaptive sliding mode controller. Experimental validations have demonstrated that the proposed PI-PBC approach, in conjunction with the I&I and the DO estimators, allowed regulation of the voltage output profile in the terminals of the DC load with asymptotic stability properties and fast convergence times (1.87 ms) and acceptably overshoots (6.1%) when the voltage input varies its magnitude (from 10 to 12 V and from 10 to 8 V) considering that the DC load changed with a square waveform between 1 and 2 A with 100 Hz.
A System of Improving Energy and Ecological Efficiency, Using the Example of Fuel Oil Combustion in Power Plant Boilers
Authors: Tic Wilhelm Jan , Guziałowska-Tic Joanna
Published: January 2023

Most climatic changes are not just the result of human activity, but also of business models that harm the environment. An attempt to attain an ecological balance is an answer to the challenge posed by this situation. The combustion of liquid fuels results in the atmospheric emissions of pollutants, such as nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulfur dioxide and hydrocarbons. To reduce emissions of these pollutants and at the same time attain an ecological balance, specific modifiers are applied. This paper presents an analysis of the energy efficiency and ecological efficiency of fuel oil combustion in power plant boilers based on the results of tests carried out by the present authors, in which a Fe/Mg/Ce modifier was used. The tests were carried out for system capacities ranging from 1 to 5 MW. It was found that savings on fuel, which resulted from the implementation of a system for the control and supervision of power plant operation, were in the range of 4 to 6%, and those resulting from the use of the combustion modifier were from 2 to 4%. Moreover, it was found that the system designed to improve efficiency also provided the extra result of reducing CO2 emission and equivalent emission (SO2, NO2, and particulate matter).
Overview of Numerical Simulation of Solid-State Anaerobic Digestion Considering Hydrodynamic Behaviors, Phenomena of Transfer, Biochemical Kinetics and Statistical Approaches
Authors: Liu Xiaojun , Coutu Arnaud , Mottelet Stéphane , Pauss André , Ribeiro Thierry
Published: January 2023

Anaerobic digestion (AD) is a promising way to produce renewable energy. The solid-state anaerobic digestion (SSAD) with a dry matter content more than 15% in the reactors is seeing its increasing potential in biogas plant deployment. The relevant processes involve multiple of evolving chemical and physical phenomena that are not crucial to conventional liquid-state anaerobic digestion processes (LSAD). A good simulation of SSAD is of great importance to better control and operate the reactors. The modeling of SSAD reactors could be realized either by theoretical or statistical approaches. Both have been studied to a certain extent but are still not sound. This paper introduces the existing mathematical tools for SSAD simulation using theoretical, empirical and advanced statistical approaches and gives a critical review on each type of model. The issues of parameter identifiability, preference of modeling approaches, multiscale simulations, sensibility analysis, particularity of SSAD operations and global lack of knowledge in SSAD media evolution were discussed. The authors call for a stronger collaboration of multidisciplinary research in order to further developing the numeric simulation tools for SSAD.
Solar Hydrogen Variable Speed Control of Induction Motor Based on Chaotic Billiards Optimization Technique
Authors: Elnaghi Basem E. , Abelwhab M. N. , Ismaiel Ahmed M. , Mohammed Reham H.
Published: January 2023

This paper introduces a brand-new, inspired optimization algorithm (the chaotic billiards optimization (C-BO) approach) to effectively develop the optimal parameters for fuzzy PID techniques to enhance the dynamic response of the solar–hydrogen drive of an induction motor. This study compares fuzzy-PID-based C-BO regulators to fuzzy PID regulators based on particle swarm optimization (PSO) and PI-based PSO regulators to provide speed control in solar–hydrogen, induction-motor drive systems. The model is implemented to simulate the production and storage of hydrogen while powering an induction-motor drive which provides a great solution for the renewable energy storage problem in the case of solar pumping systems. MATLAB/Simulink 2021a is used to simulate and analyze the entire operation. The laboratory prototype is implemented in real time using a DSP-DS1104 board. Based on the simulation and experimental results, the proposed fuzzy-PID-based C-BO has reduced speed peak overshoot by 45.3% when compared to a fuzzy PID based PSO speed regulator and by 68.13% when compared to a PI-based PSO speed controller in the case of a large-scale motor. Additionally, the proposed speed regulator has a 6.1% faster speed rising time than a fuzzy-PID-based PSO and a 9.5% faster speed rising time than a PI–PSO speed controller. It has an excellent dynamic responsiveness value when compared to the other speed regulators.
Temperature-Dependent Ferromagnetic Loss Approximation of an Induction Machine Stator Core Material Based on Laboratory Test Measurements
Authors: Kuczmann Miklós , Orosz Tamás
Published: January 2023

The accurate measurement and modeling of ferromagnetic material losses are vital issues during the design and analysis of electrical machines. Higher loss values can describe the manufactured rotor and stator machine plates better than the catalog data obtained by standardized measurements using the Epstein frame. In this paper, different temperature-dependent models based on the loss-separation principle are introduced and compared with the measurements. The model parameters are computed from customized laboratory and standardized measurements. The customized measurements based on the stator part of an induction machine in the range of the automotive industry standard, i.e., in [−40 °C, ⋯, 180 °C]. The proposed model and measurement process can be used in the post-processing stage of numerical field analysis to obtain electromagnetic losses according to the agreement between measured and simulated results. During a numerically expensive optimization process, this model can be used to consider the temperature dependence of the losses more accurately. The study shows that more than 50% of loss increase can be measured, compared with the catalog data, if we use the manufactured, stator-based, customized measurements based on the estimation of the iron loss parameters.
Renewable Energy, Knowledge Spillover and Innovation: Capacity of Environmental Regulation
Authors: Dzwigol Henryk , Kwilinski Aleksy , Lyulyov Oleksii , Pimonenko Tetyana
Published: January 2023

The European Union (EU) countries have declared the ambitious goal of providing carbon-free economic development. Considering this, the EU countries are going to pursue relevant policies for a step-by-step refusal of mining and coal energy, consequently reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The analysis of the theoretical background showed that renewable energy is the core dimension of reducing greenhouse gas emissions. In this case, the paper aims to justify the impact of core dimensions (knowledge spillover, innovation, and environmental regulation) that could boost renewable energy penetration into all sectors and levels. The following methods are applied to test the hypotheses: stationarity testing in panels; cross-section dependence testing; cointegration testing; and estimation in heterogeneous parameter models. The data are obtained from Eurostat, the OECD, and the World Data Bank. The object of research is the EU country in the period 2010–2020. The findings confirm the hypothesis on the statistically significant impact of innovation and knowledge spillover on renewable energy. In addition, environmental regulation has a mediating positive effect on interconnections among knowledge spillover, innovations, and renewable energy. In this case, countries should boost the development of appropriate environmental regulations, which should be effective and transparent for all stakeholders.
Introducing a Novel Rice Husk Combustion Technology for Maximizing Energy and Amorphous Silica Production Using a Prototype Hybrid Rice Husk Burner to Minimize Environmental Impacts and Health Risk
Authors: Piyathissa S. D. S. , Kahandage P. D. , Namgay  , Zhang Hao , Noguchi Ryozo , Ahamed Tofael
Published: January 2023

Rice husk is the main by-product of the postharvest stage in rice production, which causes environmental impacts due to improper management as a solid waste. However, potential economic applications of rice husk combustion have been identified for energy generation and amorphous silica production in several industries. To minimize hazardous gaseous emissions and crystalline silica availability, rice husk combustion conditions should be properly controlled which also effect for efficient heat production. This study was conducted under different conditions of temperature, airflow, combustion time, and bulk density of rice husk in the combustion process using an experimental prototype hybrid rice husk burner with a fluidized bed. The availability of crystalline silica in rice husk charcoal and the CO and O2 compositions in the exhaust gas were analyzed using XRD analysis and gas analysis, respectively. Furthermore, elemental and thermogravimetric analyses were conducted to find the most efficient combustion parameter for the optimum conditions of rice husk combustion using the experimental rice husk burner. Therefore, the most efficient heat generation was achieved with the observation of the lowest CO emission, the nonavailability of crystalline silica in rice husk charcoal, at a low temperature and air flow rate (430 °C; 0.8 ms−1), high bulk density (175 kgm−3 and 225 kgm−3) and short combustion time (30 s).
Battery Energy Storage Systems in Ships’ Hybrid/Electric Propulsion Systems
Authors: Kolodziejski Marcin , Michalska-Pozoga Iwona
Published: January 2023

The shipping industry is going through a period of technology transition that aims to increase the use of carbon-neutral fuels. There is a significant trend of vessels being ordered with alternative fuel propulsion. Shipping’s future fuel market will be more diverse, reliant on multiple energy sources. One of very promising means to meet the decarbonisation requirements is to operate ships with sustainable electrical energy by integrating local renewables, shore connection systems and battery energy storage systems (BESS). With the increasing number of battery/hybrid propulsion vessels in operation and on order, this kind of vessel propulsion is becoming more common, especially in the segment of short range vessels. This paper presents review of recent studies of electrification or hybridisation, different aspects of using the marine BESS and classes of hybrid propulsion vessels. It also reviews several types of energy storage and battery management systems used for ships’ hybrid propulsion. The article describes different marine applications of BESS systems in relation to peak shaving, load levelling, spinning reserve and load response. The study also presents the very latest developments of hybrid/electric propulsion systems offered by leading maritime market manufacturers.
Analyzing the Nuclear Weapons Proliferation Risk Posed by a Mature Fusion Technology and Economy
Authors: Diesendorf Mark , Roser David , Washington Haydn
Published: January 2023

Nuclear fusion is widely promoted as the ultimate environmentally friendly solution to the world’s energy demands. However, the medium/long-term nuclear weapons proliferation risks from a hypothetical fusion economy are rarely considered. Using risk assessment tools, this paper undertakes a trial scoping of proliferation hazards arising from fusion energy technologies, focused on the implications of a global ‘Mature Fusion Economy’ (MFE). In the medium term, an MFE could (1) facilitate construction of large, efficient, and reliable nuclear arsenals by producing tritium and the fissile materials Plutonium-239 and Uranium-233; and (2) erode the barriers constraining nuclear weapons acquisition by facilitating the spread of nuclear knowledge, technologies, and materials. Given the potential scale of a global MFE, management via monitoring of proliferation and diplomacy could become unworkable. Therefore, policy development must include independent and comprehensive expert and informed community assessment of such fusion-enhanced risks, transparent oversight by the nuclear disarmament community, and systematic analysis of the issues raised in this paper and their implications for fusion into the very long-term future.
A Review of Fault Diagnosis, Status Prediction, and Evaluation Technology for Wind Turbines
Authors: Zhang Fanghong , Chen Mingsong , Zhu Yuze , Zhang Kai , Li Qingan
Published: January 2023

With the rapid development and increasing energy production capacity of high-power wind turbines, a corresponding increase in maintenance requirements has been observed. Reducing the failure rate of wind turbines is a critical objective, alongside decreasing affiliated operation and maintenance costs. This review focuses on the status monitoring, fault diagnosis, fault prediction, and status evaluation of wind turbines. The early fault diagnosis of wind turbines is explored with regard to existing condition monitoring technology. Moreover, the current mathematics-based fault diagnosis and smart fault diagnosis technologies are further explored. Through comprehensive investigation, this paper summarizes the research status of wind turbine fault prediction and complete machine status evaluation, conclusively presenting relevant research points and trends in the fault diagnosis, fault prediction, and status assessment of high-power wind turbines.
Topology Identification of Low-Voltage Power Lines Based on IEC 61850 and the Clustering Method
Authors: Sun Lingyan , Chen Yu , Du Qinjun , Ding Rui , Liu Zhidong , Cheng Qian
Published: January 2023

The large-scale access of distributed power puts forward higher requirements for the monitoring of the distribution networks, and the topology identification of low-voltage power lines can effectively promote the integration of monitoring data and the distribution network information, effectively realizing the rapid identification of faults and ensuring the safety of users. In this paper, the method of graph theory was used to simplify the analysis of low-voltage lines, and the full topology identification strategy was proposed. Based on IEC 61850 SCL topology configuration information, line topology identification within the region was realized, and the correlation between regions was determined by the injection method. According to the configuration information, regional association information, and user’s collection information, the low-voltage station area line topology was divided into known regional topology and unknown regional topology. Aiming for the identification of line topology in the unknown region, according to the similarity of voltage fluctuations over short electrical distances, clustering analysis of user’s voltage data in the unknown region was carried out based on the k-means clustering algorithm. The test results showed that this scheme can realize the identification of topology in the region.
In Vitro Fermentation
Authors: Wang Mengzhi
Published: January 2023

The rumen of ruminants, as well as the colon of monogastric animals, are inhabited by over one trillion bacteria, fungi, and protozoa, and these are emerging as critical regulators in dietary micronutrients and animal health [...]
Acknowledgment to the Reviewers of FinTech in 2022
Authors:   FinTech Editorial Office
Published: January 2023

High-quality academic publishing is built on rigorous peer review [...]
Identification of Illicit Conservation Treatments in Fresh Fish by Micro-Raman Spectroscopy and Chemometric Methods
Authors: Robotti Elisa , Belay Masho Hilawie , Calà Elisa , Benedetto Alessandro , Cerruti Simone , Pezzolato Marzia , Pennisi Francesco , Abete Maria Cesarina , Marengo Emilio , Brizio Paola
Published: January 2023

In the field of food control for fresh products, the identification of foods subjected to illicit conservation treatments to extend their shelf life is fundamental. Fresh fish products are particularly subjected to this type of fraud due to their high commercial value and the fact that they often have to be transported over a long distance, keeping their organoleptic characteristics unaltered. Treatments of this type involve, e.g., the bleaching of the meat and/or the momentary abatement of the microbial load, while the degradation process continues. It is therefore important to find rapid methods that allow the identification of illicit treatments. The study presented here was performed on 24 sea bass samples divided into four groups: 12 controls (stored on ice in the fridge for 3 or 24 h), and 12 treated with a Cafodos-like solution for 3 or 24 h. Muscle and skin samples were then characterized using micro-Raman spectroscopy. The data were pre-processed by smoothing and taking the first derivative and then PLS-DA models were built to identify short- and long- term effects on the fish’s muscle and skin. All the models provided the perfect classification of the samples both in fitting and cross-validation and an analysis of the bands responsible for the effects was also reported. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first time Raman spectroscopy has been applied for the identification of a Cafodos-like illicit treatment, focusing on both fish muscle and skin evaluation. The procedure could pave the way for a future application directly on the market through the use of a portable device.
Huangshui Polysaccharide Exerts Intestinal Barrier Protective Effects through the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB and MAPK Signaling Pathways in Caco-2 Cells
Authors: Huo Jiaying , Pei Wenhao , Liu Guoying , Sun Weizheng , Wu Jihong , Huang Mingquan , Lu Wei , Sun Jinyuan , Sun Baoguo
Published: January 2023

Several reports have demonstrated that natural polysaccharides exert protective effects on intestinal barrier function. In our previous study, we isolated a polysaccharide named HSP-W from Huangshui (HS). In the present study, the protective role of HSP-W in LPS-induced intestinal barrier dysfunction was determined by several molecular biological techniques. The results showed that HSP-W treatment alleviated the deduced TEER and increased the permeability of intestinal epithelial cells induced by LPS through inhibiting the release of inflammatory cytokines and enhancing the expression of tight junction (TJ) proteins. The underlying molecular mechanisms were elucidated by RNA-seq technique, which indicated that the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between the LPS-treated and LPS+HSP-W-treated groups were enriched in the “MAPK” signaling pathway. Notably, the overlapping DEGs reversed by HSP-W intervention highlighted the pathways of the “Toll-like receptor” and “NF-κB” signaling pathways. The suppression of p38 and NF-κB were mediated by the inhibition of MyD88. Furthermore, HSP-W treatment prevented the translocation of NF-κB to nucleus, thus inhibiting the release of TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β. Overall, HSP-W has beneficial effects on LPS-induced inflammation; it protects the intestinal barrier from injury in Caco-2 cells through inhibiting the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB and p38 MAPK signaling pathways.
Characterization of the Technofunctional Properties and Three-Dimensional Structure Prediction of 11S Globulins from Amaranth (Amaranthus hypochondriacus L.) Seeds
Authors: Aguilar-Padilla Jorge , Centeno-Leija Sara , Bojórquez-Velázquez Esaú , Elizalde-Contreras José M. , Ruiz-May Eliel , Serrano-Posada Hugo , Osuna-Castro Juan Alberto
Published: January 2023

Amaranth 11S globulins (Ah11Sn) are an excellent source of essential amino acids; however, there have been no investigations on the characterization of their techno-functional properties at different pH conditions and NaCl concentrations, which are necessary for food formulations. In this work, we report a new two-step purification method for native Ah11Sn with purity levels of ~95%. LC–MS/MS analysis revealed the presence of three different Ah11Sn paralogs named Ah11SB, A11SC, and Ah11SHMW, and their structures were predicted with Alphafold2. We carried out an experimental evaluation of Ah11Sn surface hydrophobicity, solubility, emulsifying properties, and assembly capacity to provide an alternative application of these proteins in food formulations. Ah11Sn showed good surface hydrophobicity, solubility, and emulsifying properties at pH values of 2 and 3. However, the emulsions became unstable at 60 min. The assembly capacity of Ah11Sn evaluated by DLS analysis showed mainly the trimeric assembly (~150–170 kDa). This information is beneficial to exploit and utilize Ah11Sn rationally in food systems.
Development of a Novel Flavored Goat Cheese with Gentiana lutea Rhizomes
Authors: Coelho Christian , Bord Cécile , Fayolle Karine , Bibang Cindy , Flahaut Stéphanie
Published: January 2023

Gentiana lutea rhizomes, generally used as a bittering agent in food, were harvested from two geographical sites (Massif Central: MC and Jura: J) to evaluate their potential use in the flavoring step during goat cheesemaking. Gentian flavored goat cheeses (MCGC and JGC) were elaborated by a one-night immersion of unflavored goat cheeses (CGC) into gentian-infused whey. The impregnation of gentian in goat cheeses was evaluated by chemical and sensory analysis. The chemical composition of cheeses was analyzed by HS-SPME-GC-MS (Head-Space—Solid Phase MicroExtraction—Gas Chromatography—Mass Spectrometry) for volatile compounds (alcohols, ketones, aldehydes, esters, alkenes, alkanes, acids, terpenes) and UHPLC-DAD (Ultra High-Performance Liquid Chromatography—Diode Array Detector) for gentian bitter compounds (seco-iridoids). The sensory analysis consisted of a bitterness rating and a free description of cheeses by 17 trained panelists. Results of the study highlighted that unflavored goat cheeses presented higher unpleasant notes (goaty and lactic whey) and higher amounts of hexanoic acid and toluene compared to gentian flavored goat cheeses. The bitterness of gentian flavored goat cheeses was higher compared to unflavored cheeses and could be explained by loganic acid transfer from yellow gentian to flavored cheeses. Other free descriptors of gentian flavored goat cheeses revealed more complex notes (herbal, vegetal, floral, sweet, spicy and creamy) and higher relative amounts of volatile compounds such as 3-methyl butanoic acid, 2-methyl propanoic acid, 4-methyl decane, 2,3-butanediol, ethanol, diacetyl, methyl acetate and 2-phenylethyl acetate, compared to unflavored cheeses. Phenylethyl acetate was the only volatile compound that enabled differentiation of gentian origin on gentian flavored goat cheeses. Gentian rhizomes could be considered a promising flavoring agent contributing to the olfactive and gustative complexity of flavored goat cheeses and the reduction of their goaty perceptions.
SVM Regression to Assess Meat Characteristics of Bísaro Pig Loins Using NIRS Methodology
Authors: Vasconcelos Lia , Dias Luís G. , Leite Ana , Ferreira Iasmin , Pereira Etelvina , Silva Severiano , Rodrigues Sandra , Teixeira Alfredo
Published: January 2023

This study evaluates the ability of the near infrared reflectance spectroscopy (NIRS) to estimate the aW, protein, moisture, ash, fat, collagen, texture, pigments, and WHC in the Longissimus thoracis et lumborum (LTL) of Bísaro pig. Samples (n = 40) of the LTL muscle were minced and scanned in an FT-NIR MasterTM N500 (BÜCHI) over a NIR spectral range of 4000–10,000 cm−1 with a resolution of 4 cm−1. The PLS and SVM regression models were developed using the spectra’s math treatment, DV1, DV2, MSC, SNV, and SMT (n = 40). PLS models showed acceptable fits (estimation models with RMSE ≤ 0.5% and R2 ≥ 0.95) except for the RT variable (RMSE of 0.891% and R2 of 0.748). The SVM models presented better overall prediction results than those obtained by PLS, where only the variables pigments and WHC presented estimation models (respectively: RMSE of 0.069 and 0.472%; R2 of 0.993 and 0.996; slope of 0.985 ± 0.006 and 0.925 ± 0.006). The results showed NIRs capacity to predict the meat quality traits of Bísaro pig breed in order to guarantee its characterization.
Effect of the Addition of Selected Herbal Extracts on the Quality Characteristics of Flavored Cream and Butter
Authors: Ziarno Małgorzata , Kozłowska Mariola , Ratusz Katarzyna , Hasalliu Rozeta
Published: January 2023

Herbs have been used for centuries in order to enrich food as preservatives, flavorings, and medicinal agents. The aim of this work was to study the effect of the addition of selected herbal extracts (dried leaves of Thymus vulgaris L., Origanum vulgare L., Satureja hortensis L., Rosmarinus officinalis L., and Ocimum basilicum L.) on selected parameters of fermented flavored cream (counts of starter culture bacteria and pH value) and the resulting flavored butter (water content, water distribution, butter plasma pH, butter fat acidity, and oxidative stability), preceded by a study of the activity of the herbal extracts against starter lactic acid bacteria determined using the well diffusion method. The extracts did not inhibit the starter lactic acid bacteria at a fixed level. The presence of the herbal extracts contributed to a shorter fermentation course and influenced the counts of starter culture bacteria during fermentation and refrigerated storage (at 5 °C) for 21 days. The extract additives did not affect the water content or the degree of its dispersion, the butter plasma pH, or the butter fat acidity. The positive effect of the rosemary and thyme extract addition was only noted when analyzing the oxidative stability of the milk fat of the butter.
Principles, Application, and Gaps of High-Intensity Ultrasound and High-Pressure Processing to Improve Meat Texture
Authors: Bernardo Yago Alves de Aguiar , do Rosario Denes Kaic Alves , Conte-Junior Carlos Adam
Published: January 2023

In this study, we evaluate the most recently applied emerging non-thermal technologies (NTT) to improve meat tenderization, high-intensity ultrasound (HIUS), and high-pressure processing (HPP), aiming to understand if individual effects are beneficial and how extrinsic and intrinsic factors influence meat toughness. We performed a systematic literature search and meta-analysis in four databases (Web of Science, Scopus, Embase, and PubMed). Among the recovered articles (n = 192), 59 studies were included. We found better sonication time in the range of 2–20 min. Muscle composition significantly influences HIUS effects, being type IIb fiber muscles more difficult to tenderize (p < 0.05). HPP effects are beneficial to tenderization at 200–250 MPa and 15–20 min, being lower and higher conditions considered inconclusive, tending to tenderization. Despite these results, undesirable physicochemical, microstructural, and sensory alterations are still unknown or represent barriers against applying NTT at the industrial level. Optimization studies and more robust analyses are suggested to enable its future implementation. Moreover, combining NTT with plant enzymes demonstrates an interesting alternative to improve the tenderization effect caused by NTT. Therefore, HIUS and HPP are promising technologies for tenderization and should be optimized considering time, intensity, pressure, muscle composition, undesirable changes, and combination with other methods.
Fractional Study of the Non-Linear Burgers’ Equations via a Semi-Analytical Technique
Authors: Iqbal Naveed , Chughtai Muhammad Tajammal , Ullah Roman
Published: January 2023

Most complex physical phenomena are described by non-linear Burgers’ equations, which help us understand them better. This article uses the transformation and the fractional Taylor’s formula to find approximate solutions for non-linear fractional-order partial differential equations. Solving non-linear Burgers’ equations with the right starting data shows that the method utilized is correct and can be utilized. Based on the limit of the idea, a rapid convergence McLaurin series is used to obtain close series solutions for both models with less work and more accuracy. To see how time-Caputo fractional derivatives affect how the results of the above models behave, in three dimension figures are drawn. The results showed that the proposed method is an easy, flexible, and helpful way to solve and understand a wide range of non-linear physical models.
Bioinspired Oxidation-Resistant Catechol-like Sliding Ring Polyrotaxane Hydrogels
Authors: Rial-Hermida M. Isabel , Costa Dora C. S. , Jiang Lan , Rodrigues João M. M. , Ito Kohzo , Mano João F.
Published: January 2023

Adaptable hydrogels have been used in the biomedical field to address several pathologies, especially those regarding tissue defects. Here, we describe unprecedented catechol-like functionalized polyrotaxane (PR) polymers able to form hydrogels. PR were functionalized with the incorporation of hydroxypyridinone (HOPO) moieties into the polymer backbone, with a degree of substitution from 4 to 22%, depending on the PR type. The hydrogels form through the functionalized supramolecular systems when in contact with a Fe(III) solution. Despite the hydrogel formation being at physiological pH (7.4), the HOPO derivatives are extremely resistant to oxidation, unlike common catechols; consequently, they prevent the formation of quinones, which can lead to irreversible bounds within the matrix. The resulting hydrogels demonstrated properties lead to unique hydrogels with improved mechanical behavior obtained by metallic coordination crosslinking, due to the synergies of the sliding-ring PR and the non-covalent (reversible) catechol analogues. Following this strategy, we successfully developed innovative, cytocompatible, oxidative-resistant, and reversible crosslinked hydrogels, with the potential of being used as structural self-materials for a variety of applications, including in the biomedical field.
Acknowledgment to the Reviewers of Humanities in 2022
Authors:   Humanities Editorial Office
Published: January 2023

High-quality academic publishing is built on rigorous peer review [...]
The Impact of Clinical Training Seminars on Stress and Perception of Clinical Placement Stressors among Spanish Undergraduate Nursing Students: A Two-Phase Mixed-Methods Study
Authors: Lepiani-Díaz Isabel , Paramio Alberto , Palazón-Fernández José L. , Román-Sánchez Daniel , Carranza-Naval María José , Mata-Pérez Concepción , Cruz-Barrientos Alberto , Paramio-Cuevas Juan Carlos
Published: January 2023

Stress and stressors related to clinical practice are some of the main reasons for the discomfort reported by nursing students. It is important to identify the causes of stress and seek strategies to reduce the stress levels in nursing students. Clinical training seminars have proven to be a useful tool to reduce stress levels. This study aims to evaluate the effects of a series of clinical training seminars on the levels of stress and perception of stress factors before the start of clinical practice among undergraduate Spanish nursing students. A two-phase, sequential mixed-methods design was used. For the quantitative phase, data were collected using Cohen’s Perceived Stress Scale and the KEZKAK questionnaire before and after the clinical training seminars. Qualitative data were collected through a focus group session held after the clinical training period. The results show a significant reduction (p = 0.002) in perceived stress levels after the clinical training seminars, and also a change in students’ perception of stressors in the clinical placement. This study provides valuable information for the development of content for clinical training seminars. Universities should develop strategies to reduce stress in their students caused by the clinical placement.
“More Spiritual Health Professionals Provide Different Care”: A Qualitative Study in the Field of Mental Health
Authors: de Diego-Cordero Rocío , López-Tarrida Ángeles C. , Linero-Narváez Carmen , Galán González-Serna José María
Published: January 2023

In recent years, there has been an exponential increase in studies demonstrating the positive effects of the religiosity/spirituality (R/S) approach on patients’ physical and mental health. In mental health units, patients want professionals to be sensitive to their spiritual and/or religious needs, which is a fundamental aspect of a holistic approach to patients. Qualitative research with an exploratory and descriptive design with an ethnographic-phenomenological approach through in-depth interviews with sixteen professionals from Spanish mental health units. There is no consensus on the definition of spirituality; however, all of them believe that R/S has a positive influence on the health of patients in coping with illness. They believe that their own R/S may interfere with the professional–patient relationship and their attention to spiritual needs. Few professionals address these needs, citing limitations such as lack of time and lack of specific training in spiritual care. More research is needed on the spiritual care of mental health professionals to define the framework, professional training, and associated challenges in the spiritual care of patients.
Acknowledgment to the Reviewers of Heritage in 2022
Authors:   Heritage Editorial Office
Published: January 2023

High-quality academic publishing is built on rigorous peer review [...]
Evaluation of Ensemble Inflow Forecasts for Reservoir Management in Flood Situations
Authors: Mendes Juliana , Maia Rodrigo
Published: January 2023

This paper describes the process of analysis and verification of ensemble inflow forecasts to the multi-purpose reservoir of Aguieira, located in the Mondego River, in the center of Portugal. This process was performed to select and validate the reference inflows for the management of a reservoir with flood control function. The ensemble inflow forecasts for the next 10-day period were generated forcing a hydrological model with quantitative precipitation forecasts from the High-Resolution Model (HRES) and the Ensemble Prediction System (EPS) of the European Center for Medium-range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF). Due to the uncertainty of the ensemble forecasts, a reference forecast to be considered for operational decisions in the management of reservoirs and to take protection measures from floods was proved necessary. This reference forecast should take into account the close agreement of the various forecasts performed for the same period as also the adjustment to the corresponding observed data. Thus, taking into account the conclusions derived from the evaluation process of the consistency and the quality of the ensemble forecasts, the reference inflow forecast to the Aguieira reservoir was defined by the maximum value of the ensemble in the first 72 h of the forecast period and by the 75th percentile in the following hours (from 72 to 240 h).
Acknowledgment to the Reviewers of Infectious Disease Reports in 2022
Authors:   Infectious Disease Reports Editorial Office
Published: January 2023

High-quality academic publishing is built on rigorous peer review [...]
Adolescent Distress: Is There a Vaccine? Social and Cultural Considerations during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Demaria Francesco , Vicari Stefano
Published: January 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic had an unprecedented impact on mental health. In particular, the impact on adolescents was likely significant due to vulnerability factors linked to this developmental stage and pre-existing conditions of hardship. The present work aimed at grasping the particular effects of the pandemic on social and cultural aspects of adolescence, providing a cross-sectional picture of this historical moment of contemporary youth culture. Further research is needed to verify the findings.
Characterization of IGF2R Molecular Expression in Canine Osteosarcoma as Part of a Novel Comparative Oncology Approach
Authors: Boisclair Charles , Dickinson Ryan , Giri Sabeena , Dadachova Ekaterina , MacDonald-Dickinson Valerie
Published: January 2023

Progress in prognostic factors, treatments, and outcome for both canine and human osteosarcoma (OS) has been minimal over the last three decades. Surface overexpression of the cation independent mannose-6-phosphate/insulin-like growth factor receptor type 2 (IGF2R) has been proven to occur in human OS cells. Subsequently, radioimmunotherapy (RIT) targeting IGF2R has demonstrated promising preliminary results. The main aims of this study were to investigate the expression of IGF2R in spontaneously occurring canine OS cells using immunohistochemistry (IHC) on archived biopsy samples and to assess its prognostic significance. Thirty-four dogs were included in the study. All cases showed that 80–100% of OS cells stained positive for IGF2R. IGF2R overexpression alone was not shown to have prognostic significance using both visual and quantitative methods of IHC staining intensity. This study has established for the first time the consistent expression of IGF2R in spontaneously occurring canine OS. This comparative oncology approach will allow further investigation into RIT as a novel treatment modality; first in canines and then in humans with OS. In addition, further studies should be performed to assess the true prognostic significance of IGF2R overexpression.
Not to Miss: Intronic Variants, Treatment, and Review of the Phenotypic Spectrum in VPS13D-Related Disorder
Authors: Pauly Martje G. , Brüggemann Norbert , Efthymiou Stephanie , Grözinger Anne , Diaw Sokhna Haissatou , Chelban Viorica , Turchetti Valentina , Vona Barbara , Tadic Vera , Houlden Henry , Münchau Alexander , Lohmann Katja
Published: January 2023

VPS13D is one of four human homologs of the vacuolar sorting protein 13 gene (VPS13). Biallelic pathogenic variants in the gene are associated with spastic ataxia or spastic paraplegia. Here, we report two patients with intronic pathogenic variants: one patient with early onset severe spastic ataxia and debilitating tremor, which is compound-heterozygous for a canonical (NM_018156.4: c.2237−1G > A) and a non-canonical (NM_018156.4: c.941+3G>A) splice site variant. The second patient carries the same non-canonical splice site variant in the homozygous state and is affected by late-onset spastic paraplegia. We confirmed altered splicing as a result of the intronic variants and demonstrated disturbed mitochondrial integrity. Notably, tremor in the first patient improved significantly by bilateral deep brain stimulation (DBS) in the ventralis intermedius (VIM) nucleus of the thalamus. We also conducted a literature review and summarized the phenotypical spectrum of reported VPS13D-related disorders. Our study underscores that looking for mutations outside the canonical splice sites is important not to miss a genetic diagnosis, especially in disorders with a highly heterogeneous presentation without specific red flags.
Overlapping and Distinct Features of Cardiac Pathology in Inherited Human and Murine Ether Lipid Deficiency
Authors: Dorninger Fabian , Kiss Attila , Rothauer Peter , Stiglbauer-Tscholakoff Alexander , Kummer Stefan , Fallatah Wedad , Perera-Gonzalez Mireia , Hamza Ouafa , König Theresa , Bober Michael B. , Cavallé-Garrido Tiscar , Braverman Nancy E. , Forss-Petter Sonja , Pifl Christian , Bauer Jan , Bittner Reginald E. , Helbich Thomas H. , Podesser Bruno K. , Todt Hannes , Berger Johannes
Published: January 2023

Inherited deficiency in ether lipids, a subgroup of glycerophospholipids with unique biochemical and biophysical properties, evokes severe symptoms in humans resulting in a multi-organ syndrome. Mouse models with defects in ether lipid biosynthesis have widely been used to understand the pathophysiology of human disease and to study the roles of ether lipids in various cell types and tissues. However, little is known about the function of these lipids in cardiac tissue. Previous studies included case reports of cardiac defects in ether-lipid-deficient patients, but a systematic analysis of the impact of ether lipid deficiency on the mammalian heart is still missing. Here, we utilize a mouse model of complete ether lipid deficiency (Gnpat KO) to accomplish this task. Similar to a subgroup of human patients with rhizomelic chondrodysplasia punctata (RCDP), a fraction of Gnpat KO fetuses present with defects in ventricular septation, presumably evoked by a developmental delay. We did not detect any signs of cardiomyopathy but identified increased left ventricular end-systolic and end-diastolic pressure in middle-aged ether-lipid-deficient mice. By comprehensive electrocardiographic characterization, we consistently found reduced ventricular conduction velocity, as indicated by a prolonged QRS complex, as well as increased QRS and QT dispersion in the Gnpat KO group. Furthermore, a shift of the Wenckebach point to longer cycle lengths indicated depressed atrioventricular nodal function. To complement our findings in mice, we analyzed medical records and performed electrocardiography in ether-lipid-deficient human patients, which, in contrast to the murine phenotype, indicated a trend towards shortened QT intervals. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that the cardiac phenotype upon ether lipid deficiency is highly heterogeneous, and although the manifestations in the mouse model only partially match the abnormalities in human patients, the results add to our understanding of the physiological role of ether lipids and emphasize their importance for proper cardiac development and function.
MiRNA Differences Related to Treatment-Resistant Schizophrenia
Authors: Pérez-Rodríguez Daniel , Penedo Maria Aránzazu , Rivera-Baltanás Tania , Peña-Centeno Tonatiuh , Burkhardt Susanne , Fischer Andre , Prieto-González José M. , Olivares José Manuel , López-Fernández Hugo , Agís-Balboa Roberto Carlos
Published: January 2023

Schizophrenia (SZ) is a serious mental disorder that is typically treated with antipsychotic medication. Treatment-resistant schizophrenia (TRS) is the condition where symptoms remain after pharmacological intervention, resulting in long-lasting functional and social impairments. As the identification and treatment of a TRS patient requires previous failed treatments, early mechanisms of detection are needed in order to quicken the access to effective therapy, as well as improve treatment adherence. In this study, we aim to find a microRNA (miRNA) signature for TRS, as well as to shed some light on the molecular pathways potentially involved in this severe condition. To do this, we compared the blood miRNAs of schizophrenia patients that respond to medication and TRS patients, thus obtaining a 16-miRNA TRS profile. Then, we assessed the ability of this signature to separate responders and TRS patients using hierarchical clustering, observing that most of them are grouped correctly (~70% accuracy). We also conducted a network, pathway analysis, and bibliography search to spot molecular pathways potentially altered in TRS. We found that the response to stress seems to be a key factor in TRS and that proteins p53, SIRT1, MDM2, and TRIM28 could be the potential mediators of such responses. Finally, we suggest a molecular pathway potentially regulated by the miRNAs of the TRS profile.
Degraded RNA from Human Anterior Cruciate Ligaments Yields Valid Gene Expression Profiles
Authors: Ashton Megan N. , Worsham Asha E. , Strawn Matthew D. , Fisher Geoffrey D. , Perry Cody J. , Ferguson Matthew P. , Zumwalt Mimi , Brindley George W. , Hashemi Javad , Mansouri Hossein , Slauterbeck James R. , Hardy Daniel M.
Published: January 2023

Correlating gene expression patterns with biomechanical properties of connective tissues provides insights into the molecular processes underlying the tissue growth and repair. Cadaveric specimens such as human knees are widely considered suitable for biomechanical studies, but their usefulness for gene expression experiments is potentially limited by the unavoidable, nuclease-mediated degradation of RNA. Here, we tested whether valid gene expression profiles can be obtained using degraded RNA from human anterior cruciate ligaments (ACLs). Human ACL RNA (N = 6) degraded in vitro by limited ribonuclease digestion resemble highly degraded RNA isolated from cadaveric tissue. PCR threshold cycle (Ct) values for 90 transcripts (84 extracellular matrix, 6 housekeeping) in degraded RNAs variably ranged higher than values obtained from their corresponding non-degraded RNAs, reflecting both the expected loss of target templates in the degraded preparations as well as differences in the extent of degradation. Relative Ct values obtained for mRNAs in degraded preparations strongly correlated with the corresponding levels in non-degraded RNA, both for each ACL as well as for the pooled results from all six ACLs. Nuclease-mediated degradation produced similar, strongly correlated losses of housekeeping and non-housekeeping gene mRNAs. RNA degraded in situ yielded comparable results, confirming that in vitro digestion effectively modeled degradation by endogenous ribonucleases in frozen and thawed ACL. We conclude that, contrary to conventional wisdom, PCR-based expression analyses can yield valid mRNA profiles even from RNA preparations that are more than 90% degraded, such as those obtained from connective tissues subjected to biomechanical studies. Furthermore, legitimate quantitative comparisons between variably degraded tissues can be made by normalizing data to appropriate housekeeping transcripts.