bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical and sociodemographic profile of acute intoxications in an emergency department: A retrospective cross-sectional study
Authors: Aguilón-Leiva Juan José , Tejada-Garrido Clara Isabel , Echániz-Serrano Emmanuel , Mir-Ramos Eduardo , Torres-Pérez Antonio Manuel , Lafuente-Jiménez Alberto , Martínez-Soriano María , Santolalla-Arnedo Iván , Czapla Michal , Smereka Jacek , Juárez-Vela Raúl , Satústegui-Dordá Pedro José
Published: October 2022

Background

Epidemiological studies about acute poisoning are useful for developing clinical toxicology, especially those carried out in hospital emergency departments. We aimed to evaluate acute intoxication clinical and sociodemographic profile in South Aragon Hospital, Spain.

Methods

We carried out a retrospective cross-sectional study. We included 442 patients treated for acute poisoning in the emergency department during the 3 years 2015–2018. In the inferential analysis, the Chi-square test was used to compare proportions, and the Mann-Whitney U-test was used to compare ranges. A confidence level of 95 per cent was considered in all tests.

Results

The mean age was 44.1 years. 57.2% were men. Drugs of abuse were present in 243 patients (55%), drugs in 172 (38.9%), chemicals in 57 (12.9%) and three patients (0.7%) were poisoned by mushrooms. Nine different drugs of abuse, 73 drugs, 15 chemical compounds and 2 varieties of mushrooms were registered. Of the intoxicated patients, 92.3% had symptoms, 84.2% received treatment and 78.7% were discharged from the emergency department.

Conclusions

We obtain a clear clinical and sociodemographic profile of intoxicated patients who come to the emergency department; the five toxins that cause most acute poisoning are: alcohol, benzodiazepines, antiarrhythmics, cannabis and carbon monoxide.
MOVE-III: A CubeSat for the detection of sub-millimetre space debris and meteoroids in Low Earth Orbit
Authors: Oikonomidou Xanthi , Karagiannis Eleftherios , Still Dominik , Strasser Florian , Firmbach Felix S. , Hettwer Jonathan , Schweinfurth Allan G. , Pucknus Paul , Menekay Deniz , You Tianyi , Vovk Maximilian , Weber Selina , Zhu Zeyu
Published: October 2022

The Munich Orbital Verification Experiment (MOVE) is a CubeSat student project housed at the Scientific Workgroup for Rocketry and Spaceflight at the Technical University of Munich. MOVE-III is the fourth CubeSat under development, and the first 6U mission of the MOVE project that will carry a dedicated scientific payload in orbit. The mission aims at acquiring in-situ observations of sub-millimetre space debris and meteoroids in Low Earth Orbit, with the objective of compiling a dataset of flux, as well as object mass and velocity measurements that can be used for the validation of the small object estimates of space debris models and support further studies related to the characterisation of the space environment. The MOVE-III CubeSat employs the MOVE-BEYOND platform and is planned to carry three Debris Density Retrieval and Analysis (DEDRA) plasma ionization sensors. The Preliminary Design Review has been completed in early 2022, with the next milestone being the Critical Design Review, planned for 2023. The paper elaborates on the scientific objectives of the mission and the expected data products, provides an overview of the detector operation principle and presents the overall system architecture, the platform configuration and the subsystem interaction. Considerations on the debris mitigation aspects of the mission are additionally discussed.
On the green isolated proton auroras during Canada thanksgiving geomagnetic storm
Authors: Liang Jun , Gillies D. , Donovan E. , Parry H. , Mann I. , Connors M. , Spanswick E.
Published: October 2022

The existence of detached/isolated auroral structures in the subauroral ionosphere has been recognized and studied for decades. One major subset of such detached auroras is the so-called “isolated proton aurora” (IPA). IPA is characterized by substantial hydrogen emissions and thus inferred to be proton aurora, but is also accompanied by other emission lines. In particular, IPA is usually dominated by 557.7 nm green-line emissions in optical luminosity. To date, there is still a lack of dedicated spectrographic study and detailed comparison among structures in different emission lines of IPA. The intensity ratios between the 557.7 nm and hydrogen emissions in IPA have not been well established from concurrent observations or theoretical models. In this study, we report an IPA event during ∼0245–0345 UT on 12 October 2021, the Canada Thanksgiving storm night. Using multi-station, multi-wavelength optical instruments, including the Transition Region Explorer (TREx) spectrograph, we investigate the evolution and spectrographic properties of the IPA. In-situ and ground magnetometer data show evidence of electromagnetic ion cyclotron (EMIC) waves associated with the passage of IPA, supporting a causal link between the EMIC wave and the proton precipitation. The precipitating proton energies are estimated to range between a few keV and a few tens of keV according to the IPA emission heights inferred from triangulation analyses. Via careful examination of the spectral intensities and the elevation-angle profiles of the 557.7, 427.8, and 486.1 nm emissions based on the spectrograph data, we conclude that the 557.7 nm emissions contained in the IPA were unlikely to owe their source to energetic electron precipitation from the magnetosphere, but were the byproduct of the proton precipitation. The intensity ratio between the 557.7 nm (427.8 nm) and the 486.1 nm emissions of the IPA are confined within a relatively narrow range around ∼26 (∼4), which may serve as validation tests for existing and developing proton transport models.
Safety and efficacy of tirofiban after early neurological deterioration in patients with branch atheromatous disease receiving alteplase
Authors: Zhong Xuemin , Zhao Meng , Xu Ronghua , Wang Jian , Du Jiaxiu
Published: October 2022

Objectives

No standard treatment exists for branch atheromatous disease (BAD), and patients' conditions often worsen after thrombolytic therapy. We evaluated the safety and effectiveness of tirofiban after early neurological deterioration (END) development in patients receiving intravenous alteplase.

Materials and methods

Bleeding incidence, National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score, and modified Rankin scale (mRS) score were assessed for patients with BAD receiving alteplase within 4.5 h of stroke onset.

Results

Among 193 patients, 119 (61.64%) did not experience exacerbation after thrombolytic treatment, 74 (38.34%) had END, 34 were treated with tirofiban after END, and 40 received standard treatment. On day 7 or at discharge, no cases of symptomatic cerebral hemorrhage were noted, and no patient died during the 90-day follow-up. Fifty-two of 74 patients (70.27%) had a good mRS score at 90 days. Among patients with END who received tirofiban, 27 (79.41%) had a good mRS score at 90 days, which was significantly better than that of the 18 cases that did not receive tirofiban after exacerbation (45%; P < 0.001). NIHSS scores were significantly lower 24 h, 48 h, and 7 days after tirofiban treatment in patients with exacerbation after thrombolytic therapy than in those without tirofiban treatment.

Conclusions

Patients with BAD have elevated risks of END after thrombolytic therapy. Compared with conventional oral antiplatelet aggregation drugs, tirofiban rescue therapy resulted in significantly better NIHSS and mRS scores without increased symptomatic cerebral hemorrhage rates.
Effect of n-6/n-3 PUFA ratio on body fat deposition, tissues fatty acid composition and key genes expression of liver lipid metabolism in silver foxes (Vulpes vulpes fulva) during the winter fur-growth period
Authors: Zhong Wei , Luo Guoliang , Luo Jing , Guo Li
Published: October 2022

Objective

The proportion of n-6/n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) plays an important role in regulating lipid metabolism. This study aimed to investigate the effects of dietary n-6/n-3 PUFA ratios on body fat deposition, tissues fatty acid composition, and gene expression of liver lipid metabolism of silver foxes during the winter fur growth period.

Methods

Forty-eight age-matched male silver foxes with similar body weights were randomly divided into four dietary groups for 47 days, which were fed n-6/n-3 PUFA ratio with 3, 18, 41, and 136 experimental diets, respectively.

Results

Dietary n-6/n-3 PUFA ratio did not significantly influence fat deposition parameters except for hepatic fat content. The variation trend of the fatty acid composition of liver, intramuscular fat, and subcutaneous fat in silver fox was directly related to dietary fatty acid content (p < 0.05). With the dietary n-6/n-3 PUFA ratio increasing, the expression of liver fatty acid synthase (FAS) mRNA and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) mRNA exhibited the trend of first decreasing and then increasing (p < 0.05), whereas L-fatty acid binding protein (L-FABP) mRNA expression showed a gradual increasing trend (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

In summary, silver foxes fed an n-6/n-3 PUFA ratio 18:1 diet (supplementing with 9.38% corn oil and 4.62% soybean oil) was more conducive to lipid decomposition, PUFA transport, and utilization of tissues, thereby meeting it for supplying energy and withstanding the cold.
Comparing Tobacco and Alcohol Policies From a Health Systems Perspective: The Cases of the Philippines and Singapore
Authors: Amul Gianna Gayle Herrera , Etter Jean-Francois
Published: October 2022

Objective: To provide a comparative analysis of current tobacco and alcohol control laws and policies in the Philippines and Singapore

Methods: We used a public health law framework that incorporates a systems approach using a scorecard to assess the progress of the Philippines and Singapore in tobacco and alcohol control according to SDG indicators, the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control and the WHO Global Strategy to Reduce Harmful Use of Alcohol. We collected data from the scientific literature and government documents.

Results: Despite health system differences, both the Philippines (73.5) and Singapore (86.5) scored high for tobacco control, but both countries received weak and moderate scores for alcohol control: the Philippines (34) and Singapore (52.5). Both countries have policy avenues to reinforce restrictions on marketing and corporate social responsibility programs, protect policies from the influence of the industry, and reinforce tobacco cessation and preventive measures against alcohol harms.

Conclusion: Using a health system-based scorecard for policy surveillance in alcohol and tobacco control helped set policy benchmarks, showed the gaps and opportunities in these two countries, and identified avenues for strengthening current policies.
Self-Initiated Expatriation: A ‘New’ Management Challenge—An Analysis Based on Bibliometrics
Authors: Machado Carolina Feliciana
Published: October 2022

The globalization movement, the growing processes of internationalization and opening of markets that have been observed over recent decades have brought with them a significant increase in cross-border movements, with expatriation assuming a prominent role. However, if expatriation is a reality of international markets, over recent years, this concept has taken on different typologies, including self-initiated expatriation. Characterized by the individual initiative that encourages individuals to move beyond their national borders in search of an international work experience, it is critical to understand the phenomena related to SIE. More precisely, we aim to study the problematics of SIE, namely, when it started to be studied and who has published in this area of research, and the identification of the main types/sources of publication used to disseminate these works, as well as the main topics that, within the scope of SIE, have been studied. To answer these questions, using information taken from the Scopus database, a qualitative study of an interpretive nature based on bibliometric analysis was performed. At first, in order to better understand the phenomenon of expatriation in global terms, 1050 publications were obtained using the item “expatriation”. In a second step, in order to answer the questions posed, the key item of the research focused on the concept “self-initiated expatriation”, with 82 publications identified. The obtained results allowed us to conclude, among other observations, that although the phenomenon of expatriation has been studied for many years, the particular case of SIE began to gain greater prominence from 2010 onwards, with the highest peak in the number of publications observed in the period between 2012 and 2014. The top five main authors who are working in this field, the main sources where these publications (mostly scientific articles) are most frequently published, the main countries of origin, and the main approaches developed by the different authors are highlighted here. Theoretical and practical contributions, as well as the political implications of this study, are highlighted in order to encourage the development of more exhaustive studies of SIE, thus contributing to the promotion of policies and practices oriented towards the management of SIE, which can explore the potential skills that these individuals have more deeply and thus contribute to the greater and more effective development of the companies and economies of the countries that host them.
The Effects of Dietary Inclusion of Mulberry Leaf Powder on Growth Performance, Carcass Traits and Meat Quality of Tibetan Pigs
Authors: Wang Sutian , Tang Cuiming , Li Jianhao , Wang Zhenjiang , Meng Fanming , Luo Guoqing , Xin Haiyun , Zhong Jianwu , Wang Yuan , Li Baohong , Li Zhiyi , Chen Lian , Hu Bin , Lin Sen
Published: October 2022

This research was conducted to study the effects of dietary inclusion of mulberry leaf powder (MLP) on growth performance, meat quality, antioxidant activity, and carcass traits of Tibetan pigs. Eighteen Tibetan pigs (33.8 ± 1.1 kg) were assigned to two treatment groups randomly and received either the control diet (CON) or a basal diet containing 8% MLP (MLP) for two months. After the two-month feeding trial, the MLP group showed lower backfat thickness while a higher lean percentage. Compared with CON pigs, MLP pigs had higher serum CAT activity. In addition, dietary MLP supplementation significantly decreased the muscle shear force. Muscle fiber morphology analysis showed that MLP pigs had larger muscle fiber density while smaller muscle fiber cross-sectional area. Up-regulated gene expression of myosin heavy chain (MyHC)IIa was also observed in MLP pigs. These results indicate that the enhanced antioxidant activity and altered muscle fiber type and morphology appeared to contribute to the improvement of meat quality in Tibetan pigs fed diets containing MLP.
Special Issue: Smart Service Technology for Industrial Applications
Authors: Chen Kuen-Suan , Yu Chun-Min
Published: October 2022

With the gradual maturity and popularization of the Internet of Things (IoT), technologies of measurement and analysis for production data have also been continuously advanced, realizing the collection of large production data [...]
Optimizing Analog Ensembles for Sub-Daily Precipitation Forecasts
Authors: Jeworrek Julia , West Gregory , Stull Roland
Published: October 2022

This study systematically explores existing and new optimization techniques for analog ensemble (AnEn) post-processing of hourly to daily precipitation forecasts over the complex terrain of southwest British Columbia, Canada. An AnEn bias-corrects a target model forecast by searching for past dates with similar model forecasts (i.e., analogs), and using the verifying observations as ensemble members. The weather variables (i.e., predictors) that select the best past analogs vary among stations and seasons. First, different predictor selection techniques are evaluated and we propose an adjustment in the forward selection procedure that considerably improves computational efficiency while preserving optimization skill. Second, temporal trends of predictors are used to further enhance predictive skill, especially at shorter accumulation windows and longer forecast horizons. Finally, this study introduces a modification in the analog search that allows for selection of analogs within a time window surrounding the target lead time. These supplemental lead times effectively expand the training sample size, which significantly improves all performance metrics—even more than the predictor weighting and temporal-trend optimization steps combined. This study optimizes AnEns for moderate precipitation intensities but also shows good performance for the ensemble median and heavier precipitation rates. Precipitation is most challenging to predict at finer temporal resolutions and longer lead times, yet those forecasts see the largest enhancement in predictive skill from AnEn post-processing. This study shows that optimization of AnEn post-processing, including new techniques developed herein, can significantly improve computational efficiency and forecast performance.
Evaluation of the Dynamical–Statistical Downscaling Model for Extended Range Precipitation Forecasts in China
Authors: Cai Hongke , Zhao Zuosen , Zheng Jiawen , Luo Wei , Li Huaiyu
Published: October 2022

In order to focus on pentad-scale precipitation forecasts, we investigated the coupling relationship between 500 hPa geopotential height (Z500) anomalies and precipitation anomalies using the China Meteorological Administration Global Land Surface ReAnalysis Interim (CRA40/Land) gridded precipitation dataset from 1999 to 2018 and the National Centers for Environmental Prediction 1 reanalysis dataset for Z500. We obtained a dynamical–statistical downscaling model (DSDM) on the pentad scale and used the daily Z500 forecast product for sub-seasonal to seasonal forecasts (15–60 days) of the FGOALS-f2 model as the predictor. Our results showed that pentad-scale prediction of precipitation is the key to bridging the current deficiencies in sub-seasonal forecasts. Compared with the FGOALS-f2 model, the pentad DSDM had a higher skill for prediction of precipitation in China at lead times longer than four pentads throughout the year and of two pentads in the summer months. FGOALS-f2 had excellent precipitation predictability at lead times less than three pentads (15 days), so the proposed pentad DSDM could not perform better than FGOALS-f2 in this period. However, at lead times greater than four pentads, the precipitation prediction scores (such as the anomaly correlation coefficient (ACC), the temporal correlation coefficient (TCC) and the mean square skill score (MSSS)) of the pentad DSDM for the whole of China were higher than those of the FGOALS-f2 model. With the rate of increase ranging from 76% to 520%, the mean ACC scores of pentad DSDM were basically greater than 0.04 after a lead time of five pentads, whereas those of the FGOALS-f2 were less than 0.04. An analysis of the Zhengzhou “720” super heavy rainstorm event showed that the pentad DSDM also had better predictability for the distribution of precipitation at lead times of three pentads than the FGOALS-f2 model for the extreme precipitation event.
Analysis of the Radon Concentration in Selected Rooms of Buildings in Poznan County
Authors: Kubiak Joanna Aleksandra , Basińska Małgorzata
Published: October 2022

This article presents the results of the research carried out in selected rooms of buildings located in Poznan. According to the measurements, the highest average radon concentration in the buildings in Poznan County was at the level of 130 ± 32 Bqm−3. The lowest mean concentration was 31 ± 8 Bqm−3 and was measured in a seven-year-old educational institution. Based on the performed measurements, non-uniformity of the correlation between the radon concentration and temperature and humidity was observed. For all the measurement sites where volatile organic compounds were counted, a positive correlation with radon was observed (rxy = 0.31, p < 0.001). A negative correlation was obtained (rxy = −0.15, p < 0.001) between the concentration of radon and the concentration of carbon dioxide. Based on the analysis of the research conducted, it was found that the concentration of radon in a given room depends on many factors, such as temperature, humidity, and room usage profile.
Examining the Benefits of Using Boron Compounds in Lithium Batteries: A Comprehensive Review of Literature
Authors: Zheng Changlin (Allen)
Published: October 2022

Boron and boron compounds have been extensively studied together in the history and development of lithium batteries, which are crucial to decarbonization in the automotive industry and beyond. With a wide examination of battery components, but a boron-centric approach to raw materials, this review attempts to summarize past and recent studies on the following: which boron compounds are studied in a lithium battery, in which parts of lithium batteries are they studied, what improvements are offered for battery performance, and what improvement mechanisms can be explained. The uniqueness of boron and its extensive application beyond batteries contextualizes the interesting similarity with some studies on batteries. At the end, the article aims to predict prospective trends for future studies that may lead to a more extensive use of boron compounds on a commercial scale.
Nephroprotective Properties of the Glucose-Dependent Insulinotropic Polypeptide (GIP) and Glucagon-like Peptide-1 (GLP-1) Receptor Agonists
Authors: Bulum Tomislav
Published: October 2022

Diabetes mellitus is the leading cause of chronic kidney disease, and about 30–40% of patients with diabetes will develop kidney disease. Incretin hormones have received attention during the past three decades not only as a pharmacotherapy for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, but also for their cardiorenometabolic effects. The main incretins are glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP). Additional to the pancreas, receptors for GLP-1 are widely distributed in various organs, causing positive effects on endothelial function and vascular atherogenesis. Along with glycemic control and weight reduction, GLP-1 receptor agonists also strongly improve cardiovascular and renal outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes. Recently, a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist has been approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Compared to GLP-1 receptor agonist semaglutide, dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist tirzepatide showed a superior reduction in hemoglobin A1c and body weight. Preliminary results also suggest that tirzepatide improves kidney outcomes in adults with type 2 diabetes with increased cardiovascular risk. In this review, we present the nephroprotective properties of dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonists as a new drug to treat type 2 diabetes.
Development of a Prediction Method of Cell Density in Autotrophic/Heterotrophic Microorganism Mixtures by Machine Learning Using Absorbance Spectrum Data
Authors: Nakanishi Akihito , Fukunishi Hiroaki , Matsumoto Riri , Eguchi Fumihito
Published: October 2022

Microflora is actively used to produce value-added materials in industry, and each cell density should be controlled for stable microflora use. In this study, a simple system evaluating the cell density was constructed with artificial intelligence (AI) using the absorbance spectra data of microflora. To set up the system, the prediction system for cell density based on machine learning was constructed using the spectra data as the feature from the mixture of Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. As the results of predicting cell density by extremely randomized trees, when the cell densities of S. cerevisiae and C. reinhardtii were shifted and fixed, the coefficient of determination (R2) was 0.8495; on the other hand, when the cell densities of S. cerevisiae and C. reinhardtii were fixed and shifted, the R2 was 0.9232. To explain the prediction system, the randomized trees regressor of the decision tree-based ensemble learning method as the machine learning algorithm and Shapley additive explanations (SHAPs) as the explainable AI (XAI) to interpret the features contributing to the prediction results were used. As a result of the SHAP analyses, not only the optical density, but also the absorbance of the Soret and Q bands derived from the chloroplasts of C. reinhardtii could contribute to the prediction as the features. The simple cell density evaluating system could have an industrial impact.
Assessment of Treatment Response after Pressurized Intra-Peritoneal Aerosol Chemotherapy (PIPAC) for Appendiceal Peritoneal Metastases
Authors: Somashekhar SP , Abba Julio , Sgarbura Olivia , Alyami Mohammad , Teixeira Farinha Hugo , Rao Ramya G. , Willaert Wouter , Hübner Martin
Published: October 2022

Background The aim of this study was to analyse survival and surrogates for oncological response after PIPAC for appendiceal tumours. Methods This retrospective cohort study included consecutive patients with appendiceal peritoneal metastases (PM) treated in experienced PIPAC centers. Primary outcome measure was overall survival (OS) from the date of diagnosis of PM and from the start of PIPAC. Predefined secondary outcome included radiological response (RECIST criteria), repeat laparoscopy and peritoneal cancer index (PCI), histological response assessed by the Peritoneal regression grading system (PRGS) and clinical response. Results Final analysis included 77 consecutive patients (208 PIPAC procedures) from 15 centres. Median OS was 30 months (23.00–46.00) from time of diagnosis and 19 months (13.00–28.00) from start of PIPAC. 35/77 patients (45%) had ≥3 procedures (pp: per protocol). Objective response at PIPAC3 was as follows: RECIST: complete response 4 (11.4%), 11 (31.4%) partial/stable; mean PRGS at PIPAC3: 1.8 ± 0.9. Median PCI: 21 (IQR 18–27) vs. 22 (IQR 17–28) at baseline (p = 0.59); 21 (60%) and 18 (51%) patients were symptomatic at baseline and PIPAC3, respectively (p = 0.873). Median OS in the pp cohort was 22.00 months (19.00–NA) from 1st PIPAC. Conclusion Patients with PM of appendiceal origin had objective treatment response after PIPAC and encouraging survival curves call for further prospective evaluation.
Identification of the O-Glycan Epitope Targeted by the Anti-Human Carcinoma Monoclonal Antibody (mAb) NEO-201
Authors: Tsang Kwong Y. , Fantini Massimo , Zaki Anjum , Mavroukakis Sharon A. , Morelli Maria Pia , Annunziata Christina M. , Arlen Philip M.
Published: October 2022

Truncated O-glycans expressed in cancer cells support tumor progression, and they may serve as potential targets to improve the monitoring and treatment of cancers. Previously, we reported that NEO-201 binds to several tumors expressing tumor-associated CEACAM5 and CEACAM6 variants but does not bind to those expressed in healthy tissues. This specific binding may be associated with the presence of truncated O-glycans attached on the protein sequence of these variants. To evaluate the glycosylation pattern targeted by NEO-201 we performed an O-glycan array consisting of 94 O-glycans. O-glycan profiles were elucidated from the human pancreatic cancer cell line CFPAC-1, human hematological neoplastic cells (HL-60, U937, K562) and human neutrophils. The O-glycan array analysis showed that NEO-201 interacts with core 1-4 O-glycans and that the binding to a specific core 1 O-glycan was the strongest. The O-glycan profiling of the NEO-201-reactive cells CFPAC-1, HL-60, U937 and human neutrophils showed that cells recognized by NEO-201 express mostly core 1 and/or extended core 1 O-glycans. In addition, NEO-201 mediates antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC) against tumor cells expressing core 1 or extended core 1 O-glycan profiles. These results demonstrated that NEO-201 binds to core 1 and extended core 1 O-glycans expressed in its target cells. Since GalNAc residue can be added onto threonine and serine to form O-glycans, it is very likely that NEO-201 recognizes these O-glycans attached to any protein with amino acid regions containing serine and threonine.
Paretic-Limb-Only Plyometric Training Outperforms Volume-Matched Double-Limb Training for Ameliorating Balance Capability and Gait Symmetry in Adolescents with Unilateral Cerebral Palsy: A Comparative Study
Authors: Elnaggar Ragab K. , Diab Reham H. , Abonour Asmaa A. , Alsubaie Saud F. , Alrawaili Saud M. , Alghadier Mshari , Mohamed Elsayed H. , Abd-Elmonem Amira M.
Published: October 2022

Adolescents with unilateral cerebral palsy (U-CP) experience an asymmetrical posture because the less-affected lower limb is preferred for bodyweight support as a strategy of compensating for the paretic side’s muscular weakness. This study was designed to compare the effect of 12 weeks of paretic-limb-only plyometric training (PLPT) and volume-matched double-limb training (DLPT) on balance capability and gait symmetry in adolescents with U-CP. Sixty-nine adolescents with U-CP were randomly assigned to PLPT, DLPT, or a control group (n = 23 each). Treatment was delivered twice/week (with at least 48 h recovery intervals) for 12 weeks in succession. The directional (LoSdirectional) and overall (LoSoverall) limits of stability in addition to the temporal (T-GSI) and spatial (S-GSI) gait symmetry indicis were assessed pre- and post-treatment. The LoSdirectional improved significantly in the PLPT group compared to either the DLPT or control group (for the forward (p = 0.027 and <0.001, respectively), backward (p = 0.037 and <0.001, respectively), affected-side (p = 0.038 and 0.004, respectively), and less-affected-side (p = 0.018 and 0.016, respectively)), and this was also the case for the LoSoverall (p < 0.001). Additionally, The T-GSI and S-GSI scores decreased significantly in the PLPT group compared to the DLPT (p = 0.003 and 0.047, respectively) or control (p = 0.003 and 0.036, respectively) group, indicating the development more symmetrical gait patterns. In conclusion, PLPT is likely more effective for enhancing balance capabilities and promoting symmetrical gait patterns than DLPT. Thereupon, it is worthwhile for physical rehabilitation practitioners to include the PLPT paradigm into the intervention plans for adolescents with U-CP.
Access to Cancer Drugs in Canada
Authors: Wheatley-Price Paul
Published: October 2022

Lung cancer, because of the multiple subtypes now identifiable and because of the myriad of new and effective therapies, provides fertile ground to highlight issues related to oncology drug access in Canada [...]
On the Effects of Kernel Configuration in Multi-Kernel Polar Codes
Authors: Saha Souradip , Maßny Luis , Adrat Marc , Jax Peter
Published: October 2022

Polar codes are a relatively new family of linear block codes which have garnered a lot of attention from the scientific community, owing to their low-complexity implementation and provably capacity achieving capability. They have been proposed to be used for encoding information on the control channels in 5G wireless networks due to their robustness for short codeword lengths. The basic approach introduced by Arikan can only be used to generate polar codes of length N=2n, ∀n∈N. To overcome this limitation, polarization kernels of size larger than 2×2 (like 3×3, 4×4, and so on), have already been proposed in the literature. Additionally, kernels of different sizes can also be combined together to generate multi-kernel polar codes, further improving the flexibility of codeword lengths. These techniques undoubtedly improve the usability of polar codes for various practical implementations. However, with the availability of so many design options and parameters, designing polar codes that are optimally tuned to specific underlying system requirements becomes extremely challenging, since a variation in system parameters can result in a different choice of polarization kernel. This necessitates a structured design technique for optimal polarization circuits. We developed the DTS-parameter to quantify the best rate-matched polar codes. Thereafter, we developed and formalized a recursive technique to design polarization kernels of higher order from component smaller order. A scaled version of the DTS-parameter, namely SDTS-parameter (denoted by the symbol ζ in this article) was used for the analytical assessment of this construction technique and validated for single-kernel polar codes. In this paper, we aim to extend the analysis of the aforementioned SDTS parameter for multi-kernel polar codes and validate their applicability in this domain as well.
The Influence of Seasonal Cloud Cover, Ambient Temperature and Seasonal Variations in Daylight Hours on the Optimal PV Panel Tilt Angle in the United States
Authors: Alhamer Essa , Grigsby Addison , Mulford Rydge
Published: October 2022

A variety of variables influence the optimal tilt angle of a PV panel, including the characteristics of the panel, the local seasonal weather variations, the number of daylight hours the panel is exposed to and the ambient temperature of the surroundings. In this study, the optimal PV tilt angle and maximum energy output of PV arrays was calculated for every county in the United States and compared against the practice of setting the PV tilt angle to be equivalent to the latitude angle of the PV geographic location. A PVWatts API, implemented through Python, was used in conjunction with the SciPy optimization package to find the optimal tilt angle for each county using a direct line search algorithm. Most counties (95.8%) showed a difference between the location latitude and the optimal tilt of more than one degree. Many counties showed a deviation of 2–6° lower than the location latitude. The variation of daylight hours had the largest influence on tilt angle and seasonal cloud cover and ambient temperature had varying levels of influence. Generally, winter cloud cover decreased the optimal tilt angle whereas high summer temperatures increased the tilt angle.
Knowledge Graphs’ Ontologies and Applications for Energy Efficiency in Buildings: A Review
Authors: Lygerakis Filippos , Kampelis Nikos , Kolokotsa Dionysia
Published: October 2022

The Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry has been utilizing Decision Support Systems (DSSs) for a long time to support energy efficiency improvements in the different phases of a building’s life cycle. In this context, there has been a need for a proper means of exchanging and managing of different kinds of data (e.g., geospatial data, sensor data, 2D/3D models data, material data, schedules, regulatory, financial data) by different kinds of stakeholders and end users, i.e., planners, architects, engineers, property owners and managers. DSSs are used to support various processes inherent in the various building life cycle phases including planning, design, construction, operation and maintenance, retrofitting and demolishing. Such tools are in some cases based on established technologies such Building Information Models, Big Data analysis and other more advanced approaches, including Internet of Things applications and semantic web technologies. In this framework, semantic web technologies form the basis of a new technological paradigm, known as the knowledge graphs (KG), which is a powerful technique concerning the structured semantic representation of the elements of a building and their relationships, offering significant benefits for data exploitation in creating new knowledge. In this paper, a review of the main ontologies and applications that support the development of DSSs and decision making in the different phases of a building’s life cycle is conducted. Our aim is to present a thorough analysis of the state of the art and advancements in the field, to explore key constituents and methodologies, to highlight critical aspects and characteristics, to elaborate on critical thinking and considerations, and to evaluate potential impact of KG applications towards the decision-making processes associated with the energy transition in the built environment.
Tensor-Based Harmonic Analysis of Distribution Systems
Authors: Ramzan Muhammad , Othman Ali , Watson Neville R.
Published: October 2022

Over the past few decades, there have been rapid advances in solid-state technology as well as a reduction in cost. This, coupled with the functionality and efficiency improvements they afford, has resulted in a massive increase in the use of electronic devices. Where traditionally, there were a few well-known nonlinear loads that needed to be considered, now there are numerous low-power devices. Although individually insignificant, collectively, they are very significant. This paper presents a tensor-based harmonic analysis approach that is capable of capturing important interactions while being computationally efficient enough to model a large distribution system. Numerical experiments are used to highlight the advantages of the tensor framework. Numerous papers have investigated the tensor parametrisation or its mathematical equivalent—harmonically coupled admittance matrices (also known as frequency coupling matrices). However, this paper, for the first time, demonstrates how these models can be applied to perform harmonic modelling of a complete low voltage (LV) distribution system.
Performance Analysis and Optimization of a Novel Outer Rotor Field-Excited Flux-Switching Machine with Combined Semi-Closed and Open Slots Stator
Authors: Akbar Siddique , Khan Faisal , Ullah Wasiq , Ullah Basharat , Milyani Ahmad H. , Azhari Abdullah Ahmed
Published: October 2022

Slotting effect in electric machines reduces flux per pole that effect magnetic flux density distribution in the air gap which induces harmonics in magnetic flux density causing flux pulsation, that in turn generates dominant torque pulsation in the form of cogging torque and torque ripples. To overcome the abovesaid demerits, a novel outer rotor field-excited flux-switching machine (OR-FSFSM) with a combined semi-closed and open slots stator is proposed in this study. The developed OR-FEFSM offers a high-power factor, due to the utilization of the semi-closed slot for armature coils. The open slot stator structure was chosen for the field excitation coil, which effectively suppresses leakage reluctance that causes flux pulsation. Thus, the influence of torque ripples is reduced, and the average torque is improved. In order to investigate the effectiveness of the proposed OR-FEFSM, a detailed study of stator slot and rotor pole combinations are performed. Based on simplified mathematical formulation, 12S/7P (stator slot/rotor poles), 12S/11P, 12S/13P, and 12S/17P are the most feasible combinations. Finite Element Analysis (FEA) based on comprehensive electromagnetic performance is performed on each combination, and found that 12S/13P offers the highest average torque of 4.62 Nm, whereas 3.72 Nm, 2.72Nm, and 1.68 Nm average torque is offered by 12S/17P, 12S/7P, and 12S/11P, respectively. Based on the initial analysis, 12S/13P was considered for further analysis and optimized using JMAG built-in Genetic Algorithm (GA). Moreover, thermal analysis was performed, and the proposed design was compared with the conventional design.
A Single-Phase Compact-Sized Matrix Converter with Symmetrical Bipolar Buck and Boost Output Voltage Control
Authors: Ashraf Naveed , Abbas Ghulam , Raza Ali , Ullah Nasim , Mohammad Alsharef , Farrag Mohamed Emad
Published: October 2022

The development of single-phase symmetrical bipolar voltage gain matrix converters (MC) is growing rapidly as they find their application in power systems for dynamic restoration of line voltages, high voltage AC–DC converters, and variable frequency controllers for many industrial processes. However, the existing trend in matrix converter technology is a buck–boost operation that has inherently serious issues of high voltage and current surges or stresses. This is a big source of the high voltage and current rating of semiconductor switching devices. There is also a problem of high ripples both for voltage as well for current, requiring large size of filtering capacitors and inductors. The non-symmetrical control of the voltage gain increases the control complication. A large count of operating transistors is critical regarding their cost, size, and power conversion losses, as the space and cost required by their gate control circuits are much larger than the size and cost of the switching transistors. Thus, in this research work, a new single-phase MC is introduced only employing six fully controlled switching devices, ensuring similar operation or outputs as is obtained from the existing topologies that require the use of eight or more fully controlled switching devices, and the reduction by two or more switching transistors helps to compact the overall size and lower the overall cost. The separation in its voltage buck and boost operation enables smooth control of the voltage gain through duty cycle control. The low values of the voltage and current surges reduce the power rating and losses of the switching devices. The flow of the current in the filtering inductor is kept unidirectional to avoid the current interruption and reversal problem once the operation of the converter is abruptly switched from inverting to non-inverting and vice versa. All these factors are comprehensively detailed through the circuit’s description and comparative analysis. Simulation and practical results are presented to confirm the effectiveness of the developed circuit topology.
The Impact of Thinning and Clear Cut on the Ecosystem Carbon Storage of Scots Pine Stands under Maritime Influence in Flanders, Belgium
Authors: Van Damme Freke Van , Mertens Hana , Heinecke Thilo , Lefevre Lodewijk , De Meulder Tim De , Portillo-Estrada Miguel , Roland Marilyn , Gielen Bert , Janssens Ivan A. , Verheyen Kris , Campioli Matteo
Published: October 2022

A shift in management to improve the ecological function of mature plantations of exotic species can have important effects on the ecosystem climate mitigation potential. This study investigated the effect of two common forest management strategies for Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) stands on the C storage after 15 years of management. Two pairs of forest stands on poor sandy soil and under the maritime influence in Brasschaat, Belgium, were observed as case studies. The observed forest management strategies were (i) thinning and group planting of oak saplings (Quercus robur L.) and (ii) clear cut, followed by replanting of young oak. For each stand, all forest C pools (aboveground biomass, belowground biomass, litter, and mineral soil) were determined. Results showed, surprisingly, no significant difference in the whole ecosystem C stock for both forest management strategies after 15 years of management. However, after the clear cut and the new plantation, the C in the top 30 cm layer of the mineral soil increased, while it decreased on the forest floor. For thinning with group planting, the C stocks reduced within the 10–30 cm soil layer without impact on the total soil C. Therefore, the shift in management did result in a different allocation of the belowground C, particularly after a clear cut. The results are not only relevant for the study region but also for managed Scots pine forests in neighboring regions of the Atlantic zone of Western Europe.
Solubility Enhancement, Formulation Development, and Antibacterial Activity of Xanthan-Gum-Stabilized Colloidal Gold Nanogel of Hesperidin against Proteus vulgaris
Authors: Alam Aftab , Jawaid Talha , Alsanad Saud M. , Kamal Mehnaz , Rawat Pinki , Singh Vinita , Alam Pravej , Alam Prawez
Published: October 2022

The objective of the study was to develop a transdermal nanoformulation of hesperidin (HSP) against Proteus vulgaris (P. vulgaris). Based on the low water solubility of HSP, we prepared HSP-enabled AuNPs stabilized with xanthan gum (XA), referred to as HSP@XA@AuNPs. The HSP@XA@AuNP formulation was evaluated for particle size (43.16 nm), PDI (0.565), zeta potential (−31.9 mV), and entrapment efficiency (56.7%). The HSP@XA@AuNPs gel was developed by incorporating selected formulation grades into a 1% Carbopol gel base and characterized by physical evaluation and rheological studies. The color of the HSP@XA@AuNP gel was light pink, and the texture was very smooth and non-greasy. The gel was shown to be odorless. A field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) was used to investigate the shape of HSP@XA@AuNPs further. The drug release was 73.08% for the HSP@XA@AuNPs and 86.26% for the HSP@XA@AuNPs gel in 500 min. The prepared gel showed antimicrobial activity against P. vulgaris with an MIC of 1.78 μg/mL. In conclusion, the HSP@XA@AuNPs gel could be an advanced modality for treating P. vulgaris.
Mechanical Properties of Polyvinyl Alcohol Fiber-Reinforced Cementitious Composites after High-Temperature Exposure
Authors: Zhang Peng , Zhang Peishuo , Wu Jingjiang , Zhang Yong , Guo Jinjun
Published: October 2022

The mechanical properties of cementitious composites before and after exposure to high temperature are affected by calcium–silicate–hydrate (C–S–H) gels. To evaluate the effects of high temperature, plyvinyl alcohol (PVA) fiber content, and the cooling method on properties of cementitious composites, physical, mechanical, and microscopic tests were performed in this study. The target temperatures were 25, 100, 200, 300, 400, 600, and 800 °C. The PVA fiber contents were 0.0, 0.3, 0.6, 0.9, 1.2, and 1.5 vol%. The high-temperature resistance of PVA fiber-reinforced cementitious composite (PVA-FRCC) specimens was investigated through changes in their appearance, mass loss, compressive strength, splitting tensile strength, flexural strength, and microstructure. The results showed that PVA fibers reduced the probability of explosion spalling in the PVA-FRCC specimens exposed to high temperatures. The mass loss rate of samples exposed to temperatures below 200 °C was small and lower than 5%, whereas a significant mass loss was observed at 200 °C to 800 °C. A small rise in the cubic compressive and splitting tensile strengths of samples was found at 400 °C and 300 °C, respectively. Below 400 °C, the fibers were beneficial to the mechanical strength of the PVA-FRCC specimens. Nevertheless, when the temperature was heated above 400 °C, melted fibers created many pores and channels, which caused a decrease in the strength of the specimens. The method of cooling with water could aggravate the damage to the cementitious composites exposed to temperatures above 200 °C. High temperature could lead to the decomposition of the C–S–H gels of the PVA-FRCC samples, which makes C–S–H gels lose their bonding ability. From the perspective of the microstructure, the structure of PVA-FRCC samples exposed to 600 °C and 800 °C became loose and the number of microcracks increased, which confirmed the reduction in macro-mechanical properties.
The Chloroplast Genome of the Lichen Photobiont Trebouxiophyceae sp. DW1 and Its Phylogenetic Implications
Authors: Wang Lidan , Zhang Shenglu , Fang Jinjin , Jin Xinjie , Mamut Reyim , Li Pan
Published: October 2022

Lichens are symbiotic associations of algae and fungi. The genetic mechanism of the symbiosis of lichens and the influence of symbiosis on the size and composition of the genomes of symbiotic algae have always been intriguing scientific questions explored by lichenologists. However, there were limited data on lichen genomes. Therefore, we isolated and purified a lichen symbiotic alga to obtain a single strain (Trebouxiophyceae sp. DW1), and then obtained its chloroplast genome information by next-generation sequencing (NGS). The chloroplast genome is 129,447 bp in length, and the GC content is 35.2%. Repetitive sequences with the length of 30–35 bp account for 1.27% of the total chloroplast genome. The simple sequence repeats are all mononucleotide repeats. Codon usage analysis showed that the genome tended to use codon ending in A/U. By comparing the length of different regions of Trebouxiophyceae genomes, we found that the changes in the length of exons, introns, and intergenic sequences affect the size of genomes. Trebouxiophyceae had an unstable chloroplast genome structure, with IRs repeatedly losing during evolution. Phylogenetic analysis showed that Trebouxiophyceae is paraphyletic, and Trebouxiophyceae sp. DW1 is sister to the clade of Koliella longiseta and Pabia signiensis.