bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Novel Water Level Control System for Sustainable Aquarium Use
Authors: Kok Chiang Liang , Ho Chee Kit , Tanjodi Nicholas , Koh Yit Yan
Published: May 2024

The advent of Internet of Things (IoT) technology has paved the way for innovative solutions in various domains, including aquarium maintenance. An IoT-based automated water changing system emerges as a promising solution to ensure a clean and healthy environment for aquarium inhabitants, thereby alleviating basic chores, particularly for aquarium hobbyists. Conventional solutions often fall short in reliability and affordability, merely focusing on water replacement without addressing other crucial factors. In contrast, this novel system integrates cutting-edge features, leveraging wireless monitoring facilitated by Home Assistant and incorporating water seasoning capabilities. Unlike existing systems, which lack comprehensive monitoring, this solution monitors a plethora of water parameters including water height, pH levels, salinity, temperature, and dissolved solids. This holistic approach enables the system to make informed decisions based on real-time data. Utilizing the gathered data, the system employs advanced algorithms to determine requisite actions. For instance, upon detecting a lower water level, it triggers the water vault to replenish water, ensuring optimal water volume for aquatic life. Additionally, it regulates temperature through heating and cooling mechanisms, ensuring the maintenance of ideal conditions for aquatic organisms. Moreover, the system proactively addresses anomalies by generating indicator requests for parameters beyond its operational scope, thereby facilitating timely intervention by the user. By amalgamating state-of-the-art IoT technology with comprehensive water monitoring and proactive decision making capabilities, this automated water changing system represents a significant advancement in aquarium maintenance, promising enhanced efficiency, reliability, and ultimately, a healthier aquatic ecosystem.
Novel Current Source Converter for Integrating Multiple Energy Storage Systems
Authors: Barresi Marzio , De Simone Davide , Piegari Luigi , Scalabrin Riccardo
Published: May 2024

The increasing penetration of renewable energy sources (RESs) in transmission and distribution systems presents several challenges for grid operators. In particular, the unpredictable behavior of RESs can disrupt the balance between energy production and load demand, potentially affecting the stability of the entire system. Grid-connected energy storage systems (ESSs) offer a possible solution to manage the uncertainty associated with RESs. In fact, ESSs exchange power with the grid through the adoption of suitable energy management strategies, which are typically implemented by power electronics-based grid interfaces. Unlike other current source converter (CSC) solutions described in the literature, which only interface with a single energy storage device, this paper introduces a novel topology for a three-phase delta-type current source converter (D-CSC), which is capable of integrating three independent ESSs using the same number of semiconductors as traditional CSC solutions. Thus, it considerably enhances the flexibility of a power conversion system (PCS) without increasing the number of converter components. In addition, an innovative energy management control strategy is also introduced. This strategy enables the D-CSC to compensate for energy imbalances arising between the three ESSs, which might be caused by several factors, such as different aging characteristics, converter component tolerances, operating conditions, and temperature drifts. Hence, the D-CSC-based interface is capable of proper grid operation even if the three ESSs have different characteristics, thus opening the possibility of employing this converter to integrate both first and second-life devices. First, the topology of the proposed D-CSC is introduced, followed by a detailed mathematical description of its control strategy. The proper grid operation of the D-CSC was tested under different scenarios, considering the grid integration of three independent superconducting magnetic energy storage systems in a marine vessel. The proposed D-CSC is compared to traditional CSC solutions, highlighting the superior performances of the novel converter topology in terms of efficiency, total harmonic distortion of the output currents, and overall cost reduction for the PCS.
Optimization Design Study of a Full-Range Charged Calibration Device for a Low-Voltage Current Transformer
Authors: Ding Can , Feng Tingting , Bai Yaolong , Shi Yiji
Published: May 2024

According to standards, the harmonic content should be less than 5% at the time of calibration, while the calibration index proposed in this paper stipulates that the primary current amplitude of 1%~120% of the full range of the accuracy level reaches 0.05 S level. In view of the above problems and indexes, this paper adopts the active regulation technology of primary current; firstly, the harmonics of primary current are extracted, and then the opposite harmonic currents are injected by the penetrating wire to offset the harmonics, and finally, charged calibration is carried out. The inductive current transformer charged calibration device was first designed, and the particle swarm algorithm was used to optimize the offset performance of the key link of the background current offset suppression. The transfer function of the offset loop was derived, and it was theoretically analyzed that it can meet the offset requirements up to the 200th harmonic. The results show that the optimized calibration method can realize the full-range calibration of low-voltage inductive current transformers under charged conditions by making a prototype of the device and constructing a test circuit for experiments, and measuring the data and analyzing them.
Mathematical Modeling and Numerical Approximation of Heat Conduction in Three-Phase-Lag Solid
Authors: Coronel Anibal , Lozada Esperanza , Berres Stefan , Huancas Fernando , Murúa Nicolás
Published: May 2024

In this article, we propose a mathematical model for one-dimensional heat conduction in a three-layered solid considering that an interfacial condition is present for the temperature and heat flux conditions between the layers. The numerical approach is developed by constructing a finite difference scheme to solve the initial boundary–interface problem. The numerical scheme is designed by considering the accuracy of the model on the inner part of each layer, then extending to the interfaces and boundaries by incorporating the continuous interfacial conditions. The finite difference scheme is unconditionally stable, convergent, and easy to implement since it consists of the solution of two algebraic systems. We provide three numerical examples to confirm that our numerical approximation is consistent with the analytical solution and the physical phenomenon.
An Efficient Method for Detecting Abnormal Electricity Behavior
Authors: Tang Chao , Qin Yunchuan , Liu Yumeng , Pi Huilong , Tang Zhuo
Published: May 2024

The non-technical losses caused by abnormal power consumption behavior of power users seriously affect the revenue of power companies and the quality of power supply. To assist electric power companies in improving the efficiency of power consumption audit and regulating the power consumption behavior of users, this paper proposes a power consumption anomaly detection method named High-LowDAAE (Autoencoder model for dual adversarial training of high low-level temporal features). High-LowDAAE adds an extra “discriminator” named AE3 to USAD (UnSupervised Anomaly Detection on Multivariate Time Series), which performs the same function as AE2 in USAD. AE3 performs the same function as AE2 in USAD, i.e., it is trained against AE1 to enhance its ability to reconstruct average data. However, AE3 differs from AE2 because the two “discriminators” correspond to the high-level and low-level time series features output from the shared encoder network. By utilizing different levels of temporal features to reconstruct the data and conducting adversarial training, AE1 can reconstruct the time-series data more efficiently, thus improving the accuracy of detecting abnormal electricity usage. In addition, to enhance the model’s feature extraction ability for time-series data, the self-encoder is constructed with a long short-term memory (LSTM) network, and the fully connected layer in the USAD model is no longer used. This modification improves the extraction of temporal features and provides richer hidden features for the adversarial training of the dual “discriminators”. Finally, the ablation and comparison experiments are conducted using accurate electricity consumption data from users, and the results show that the proposed method has higher accuracy.
Comparison Study of the Wideband Oscillation Risk of MMC between Grid-Following and Grid-Forming Control
Authors: Cheng Yanjun , Xie Jun , Zeng Chuihui , Yang Shiqi , Sun Haichang , Qin Liang
Published: May 2024

Currently, research on the small-signal stability of grid-forming converters under two control modes, grid-following and grid-forming, mainly focuses on low-level converters. However, studies on the differences between grid-following modular multilevel converters (MMC) and grid-forming MMC are limited. A comprehensive analysis of the wideband oscillation risk differences in MMC-HVDC systems under these two control modes from the perspective of impedance characteristics is necessary. Therefore, based on the harmonic state-space (HSS) modeling theory, this article establishes wideband sequence impedance models for grid-forming and grid-following MMC. Subsequently, this article identifies key control parameters affecting the impedance characteristics of MMC under two control modes. The wideband oscillation risks of MMC-HVDC systems under both control modes are compared. The study indicates that when the grid strength weakens, grid-following MMC faces instability risks, while grid-forming MMC can maintain stability. In instances where high-frequency resonance peaks exist in the impedance of the grid, both control modes of MMC may face instability risks. Furthermore, by adjusting the obtained key control parameters of MMC, this article effectively suppresses the oscillation risk discussed above. Finally, the analysis results are verified through an electromagnetic transient simulation.
The Economic Competitiveness of Hydrogen Fuel Cell-Powered Trucks: A Review of Total Cost of Ownership Estimates
Authors: Danielis Romeo , Scorrano Mariangela , Masutti Manuela , Awan Asees Muhammad , Niazi Arsalan Muhammad Khan
Published: May 2024

This paper investigates the economic competitiveness of hydrogen-powered trucks. It reviews the growing number of papers that provide an estimate of the total cost of ownership (TCO) of hydrogen-powered trucks relative to their diesel equivalents. It examines the methodology applied, the variables considered, the data used for estimation, and the results obtained. All reviewed studies conclude that hydrogen-powered trucks are not currently cost-competitive, while they might become competitive after 2030. The conclusion holds across truck types and sizes, hydrogen pathways, mission profiles, and countries. However, we find that there is still a huge area of uncertainty regarding the purchase price of hydrogen-powered trucks and the cost of hydrogen, which hampers the reliability of the results obtained. Various areas of methodological improvements are suggested.
Dynamic Clustering of Wind Turbines Using SCADA Signal Analysis
Authors: Marti-Puig Pere , Núñez-Vilaplana Carles
Published: May 2024

This work explores the ability to dynamically group the Wind Turbine (WT) of a Wind Farm (WF) based on the behavior of some of their Supervisory Control And Data Acquisition (SCADA) signals to detect the turbines that exhibit abnormal behavior. This study is centered on a small WF of five WTs and uses the observation that the same signals from different WTs in the same WF coherently evolve temporally in a time domain, describing very similar waveforms. In this contribution, averaged signals from the SCADA system are used and omit maximums, minimums and standard deviations, focusing mainly on velocities and other slowly varying signals. For the temporal analysis, sliding windows of different temporal durations are explored. The signals are encoded using the Discrete Cosine Transform, which reduces the problem’s dimensions. A hierarchical tree is built in each time window. Clusters are formed by pruning the tree using a threshold interpretable in terms of distance. It is unnecessary to work with an a priori known number of clusters. A protocol for enumerating the clusters based on the tree’s shape is then established, making it easier to follow the evolution of the clusters over time. The capability to automatically identify WTs whose signals differ from the group’s behavior can alert and program preventive maintenance operations on such WTs before a major breakdown occurs.
Assessment of Refracturing Potential of Low Permeability Reservoirs Based on Different Development Approaches
Authors: Zhang Jingchun , Gao Ming , Dong Jingfeng , Yu Tianxi , Ding Kebao , Liu Yan
Published: May 2024

The technique of refracturing is an effective method to solve the rapid decline in oil well production caused by factors such as severe reservoir energy loss and fracture failure after the initial hydraulic fracturing of low-permeability reservoirs. The key to designing refracturing lies in establishing a model for evaluating the potential fracturing layers. Based on the geological characteristics of the low-permeability conglomerate reservoir in the Lower Wuerhe area of the Eig District of the Xinjiang Oilfield, this paper studies the influence of different development approaches on the distribution pattern of remaining oil in the reservoir. A coupled model of remaining oil distribution and the in situ stress field is established and discusses the characteristics of the four-dimensional in situ stress field under different development modes. This paper analyzes the influence of geological factors and well network factors on the distribution of residual oil, and analyzes the influence of various factors, such as reservoir properties and injection and extraction parameters, on ground stress. Based on the residual oil distribution and ground stress changes, an evaluation method for screening potential fractured layers in reservoirs with different development modes (water injection development and depletion development) is developed.
A Study on the Plugging Effect of Different Plugging Agent Combinations during CO2 Flooding in Heterogeneous Reservoirs
Authors: Zhang Xuetong , Ji Wenjuan , Yu Haiyang , Li Yilin , Yan Fei , Song Weiqiang , Jiang Xinrui , Wang Hongbao
Published: May 2024

Gas channeling control is key to improving CO2-flooding efficiency. A traditional plugging system has disadvantages, such as poor adaptability and stability, leading to the poor plugging effect of CO2 channeling in heterogeneous reservoirs and difficulty in controlling the subsequent CO2 injection pressure. To achieve a significant plugging effect and effectively control the subsequent CO2 injection pressure, a heterogeneous physical model of gas channeling in a horizontal well was established, and plugging experiments were conducted using four different combinations of plugging agents during CO2 flooding. Three evaluation parameters were defined, including the temperature field variation coefficient (TFVC), medium-permeability diversion rate (MPDR), and subsequent injection pressure coefficient (SIPC). The plugging effect of different combinations of plugging agents during CO2 flooding in heterogeneous reservoirs was analyzed. The results show that the plugging effect after using a combination of plugging agents was significantly better than after using a single plugging agent, and different plugging agent combinations had distinct characteristics. The strong–medium–weak (S-M-W) combination had the best MPDR for subsequent CO2 flooding, but the SIPC was the highest. The strong–weak–strong–weak (S-W-S-W) and weak–strong–weak–strong (W-S-W-S) combinations could effectively control the SIPC. These results indicate that plugging using the S-W-S-W and W-S-W-S combinations can achieve an effective plugging effect and reasonably control the subsequent CO2 injection pressure. This work provides a personalized design scheme for effective gas channeling control and maintenance of appropriate injection pressure during CO2 flooding in heterogeneous reservoirs.
Microbial Diversity Associated with the Cabernet Sauvignon Carposphere (Fruit Surface) from Eight Vineyards in Henan Province, China
Authors: Zhang Junjie , Zhu Cancan , Zhao Zeyang , Liu Chonghuai
Published: May 2024

The microbial diversity on the carposphere (berry) surface of the grape cultivar Cabernet Sauvignon grown in eight different locations/vineyards of Henan Province was determined by high-throughput sequencing of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene and fungal 18S rRNA gene. The structure of bacterial and fungal communities varied according to the sampling sites, but with some common phyla. Proteobacteria and Ascomycota were dominant/common phyla for bacteria and fungi, respectively. A total of 27 and 20 bacterial and fungal families, respectively, and 39 and 20 bacterial and fungal genera, respectively, with statistically significant differences, were found among different sampling sites. The difference for metabolic pathways of bacteria among the sampling sites existed. In addition, various abundances of enzymes from different sites might indicate that different function patterns exist in microbiota from different sites. The results revealed that locations of grape vineyards might play a significant role in shaping the microbiome, as well as the fact that vineyards can be distinguished based on the abundance of several key bacterial and fungal taxa. Overall, these findings extend our understanding of the similarities and differences in microbial community and their metabolic function on Cabernet Sauvignon grape surfaces from different geographic locations.
Digital Promotion of Geoheritage along a Tourist Route in M’Goun UNESCO Geopark (Central High Atlas, Morocco) and Visitor Typology Analysis
Authors: Kchikach Nisrine , Ibouh Hassan , Benali Abderrahim , Charbaoui Anas , El Fels Abdelhafid El Alaoui
Published: May 2024

In the digital era, highlighting the heritage resources of a mountainous region involves describing and advertising them to promote their visibility and attractiveness. Previous studies mainly assess the natural resources of such regions through a multi-indicator descriptive evaluation. This study aims to develop an effective evaluation of such indicators along the main tourist route of the M’Goun UNESCO Global Geopark, located in the central High Atlas of Morocco. The implementation of an experiential method to assess the tourism characteristics of this region is a notable aspect of our study. It includes analyzing the criteria for choosing this destination by segmenting tourists’ consumption experiences. Statistical data analysis has identified five dimensions of destination choice and four visitor groups. Additionally, we created an interactive map and made it accessible online to promote the natural geoheritage of this region. This article proposes to discuss the findings of this research and their applicability in terms of tourism destination management and decision-making, which can assist local governments in allocating tourism resources and land use rationally.
Insight into the Mechanism of Lysogeny Control of phiCDKH01 Bacteriophage Infecting Clinical Isolate of Clostridioides difficile
Authors: Iwanicki Adam , Roskwitalska Małgorzata , Frankowska Natalia , Wultańska Dorota , Kabała Monika , Pituch Hanna , Obuchowski Michał , Hinc Krzysztof
Published: May 2024

Clostridioides difficile is a causative agent of antibiotic-associated diarrhea as well as pseudomembranous colitis. So far, all known bacteriophages infecting these bacteria are temperate, which means that instead of prompt lysis of host cells, they can integrate into the host genome or replicate episomally. While C. difficile phages are capable of spontaneous induction and entering the lytic pathway, very little is known about the regulation of their maintenance in the state of lysogeny. In this study, we investigated the properties of a putative major repressor of the recently characterized C. difficile phiCDKH01 bacteriophage. A candidate protein belongs to the XRE family and controls the transcription of genes encoding putative phage antirepressors, known to be involved in the regulation of lytic development. Hence, the putative major phage repressor is likely to be responsible for maintenance of the lysogeny.
Preclinical Evaluation of Biodistribution and Toxicity of [211At]PSMA-5 in Mice and Primates for the Targeted Alpha Therapy against Prostate Cancer
Authors: Watabe Tadashi , Kaneda-Nakashima Kazuko , Kadonaga Yuichiro , Ooe Kazuhiro , Sampunta Thosapol , Hirose Naoki , Yin Xiaojie , Haba Hiromitsu , Kon Yukiyoshi , Toyoshima Atsushi , Cardinale Jens , Giesel Frederik L. , Fukase Koichi , Tomiyama Noriyuki , Shirakami Yoshifumi
Published: May 2024

Astatine (211At) is a cyclotron-produced alpha emitter with a physical half-life of 7.2 h. In our previous study, the 211At-labeled prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) compound ([211At]PSMA-5) exhibited excellent tumor growth suppression in a xenograft model. We conducted preclinical biodistribution and toxicity studies for the first-in-human clinical trial. [211At]PSMA-5 was administered to both normal male ICR mice (n = 85) and cynomolgus monkeys (n = 2). The mice were divided into four groups for the toxicity study: 5 MBq/kg, 12 MBq/kg, 35 MBq/kg, and vehicle control, with follow-ups at 1 day (n = 10 per group) and 14 days (n = 5 per group). Monkeys were observed 24 h post-administration of [211At]PSMA-5 (9 MBq/kg). Blood tests and histopathological examinations were performed at the end of the observation period. Blood tests in mice indicated no significant myelosuppression or renal dysfunction. However, the monkeys displayed mild leukopenia 24 h post-administration. Despite the high accumulation in the kidneys and thyroid, histological analysis revealed no abnormalities. On day 1, dose-dependent single-cell necrosis/apoptosis was observed in the salivary glands of mice and intestinal tracts of both mice and monkeys. Additionally, tingible body macrophages in the spleen and lymph nodes indicated phagocytosis of apoptotic B lymphocytes. Cortical lymphopenia (2/10) in the thymus and a decrease in the bone marrow cells (9/10) were observed in the 35 MBq/kg group in mice. These changes were transient, with no irreversible toxicity observed in mice 14 days post-administration. This study identified no severe toxicities associated with [211At]PSMA-5, highlighting its potential as a next-generation targeted alpha therapy for prostate cancer. The sustainable production of 211At using a cyclotron supports its applicability for clinical use.
How Much Do You Fuse? A Comparison of Cell Fusion Assays in a Breast Cancer Model
Authors: Sieler Mareike , Dörnen Jessica , Dittmar Thomas
Published: May 2024

Cell fusion is a biological process that is crucial for the development and homeostasis of different tissues, but it is also pathophysiologically associated with tumor progression and malignancy. The investigation of cell fusion processes is difficult because there is no standardized marker. Many studies therefore use different systems to observe and quantify cell fusion in vitro and in vivo. The comparability of the results must be critically questioned, because both the experimental procedure and the assays differ between studies. The comparability of the fluorescence-based fluorescence double reporter (FDR) and dual split protein (DSP) assay was investigated as part of this study, in which general conditions were kept largely constant. In order to be able to induce both a high and a low cell fusion rate, M13SV1 breast epithelial cells were modified with regard to the expression level of the fusogenic protein Syncytin-1 and its receptor ASCT2 and were co-cultivated for 72 h with different breast cancer cell lines. A high number of fused cells was found in co-cultures with Syncytin-1-overexpressing M13SV1 cells, but differences between the assays were also observed. This shows that the quantification of cell fusion events in particular is highly dependent on the assay selected, but the influence of fusogenic proteins can be visualized very well.
In Vitro Effects of Fentanyl on Aortic Viscoelasticity in a Rat Model of Melatonin Deficiency
Authors: Georgiev Andreyan , Kaneva Maria , Shikova Lyudmila , Mateeva Polina , Tchekalarova Jana , Antonova Mariya
Published: May 2024

Melatonin influences arterial biomechanics, and its absence could cause remodeling of the arterial wall, leading to increased stiffness. Direct effects of fentanyl on the aortic wall have also been observed previously. This study aimed to evaluate in vitro the effects of fentanyl on aortic viscoelasticity in a rat model of melatonin deficiency and to test the hypothesis that melatonin deficiency leads to increased arterial wall stiffness. The viscoelasticity was estimated in strip preparations from pinealectomized (pin, melatonin deficiency) and sham-operated (sham, normal melatonin) adult rats using the forced oscillations method. In the untreated aortic wall pin, the viscoelasticity was not significantly altered. However, combined with 10−9 M fentanyl, the pin increased the natural frequency (f0) and modulus of elasticity (E’) compared to the sham-operated. Independently, fentanyl treatment decreased f0 and E’ compared separately to untreated sham and pin preparations. The effects of fentanyl were neither dose-dependent nor affected by naloxone, suggesting a non-opioid mechanism. Furthermore, an independent effect of naloxone was also detected in the normal rat aortic wall, resulting in reduced E’. Additional studies are needed that may improve the clinical decisions for pain management and anesthesia for certain patients with co-occurring chronic low levels of blood plasma melatonin and some diseases.
SARS-CoV-2 Selectively Induces the Expression of Unproductive Splicing Isoforms of Interferon, Class I MHC, and Splicing Machinery Genes
Authors: Dias Thomaz Lüscher , Mamede Izabela , de Toledo Nayara Evelin , Queiroz Lúcio Rezende , Castro Ícaro , Polidoro Rafael , Del-Bem Luiz Eduardo , Nakaya Helder , Franco Glória Regina
Published: May 2024

RNA processing is a highly conserved mechanism that serves as a pivotal regulator of gene expression. Alternative processing generates transcripts that can still be translated but lead to potentially nonfunctional proteins. A plethora of respiratory viruses, including severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), strategically manipulate the host’s RNA processing machinery to circumvent antiviral responses. We integrated publicly available omics datasets to systematically analyze isoform-level expression and delineate the nascent peptide landscape of SARS-CoV-2-infected human cells. Our findings explore a suggested but uncharacterized mechanism, whereby SARS-CoV-2 infection induces the predominant expression of unproductive splicing isoforms in key IFN signaling, interferon-stimulated (ISGs), class I MHC, and splicing machinery genes, including IRF7, HLA-B, and HNRNPH1. In stark contrast, cytokine and chemokine genes, such as IL6 and TNF, predominantly express productive (protein-coding) splicing isoforms in response to SARS-CoV-2 infection. We postulate that SARS-CoV-2 employs an unreported tactic of exploiting the host splicing machinery to bolster viral replication and subvert the immune response by selectively upregulating unproductive splicing isoforms from antigen presentation and antiviral response genes. Our study sheds new light on the molecular interplay between SARS-CoV-2 and the host immune system, offering a foundation for the development of novel therapeutic strategies to combat COVID-19.
Transmission of Oyster Mushroom Spherical Virus to Progeny via Basidiospores and Horizontally to a New Host Pleurotus floridanus
Authors: Wang Yifan , Wen Zhidong , Yang Yaoyao , Hu Xiangting , Song Zhizhong , Hu Haijing , Song Guoyue , You Lunhe , Wang Jianrui , Liu Yu , Cheng Xianhao , Zhang Xiaoyan
Published: May 2024

Mycoviruses are usually transmitted horizontally via hyphal anastomosis and vertically through sporulation in natural settings. Oyster mushroom spherical virus (OMSV) is a mycovirus that infects Pleurotus ostreatus, with horizontal transmission via hyphal anastomosis. However, whether OMSV can be vertically transmitted is unclear. This study aimed to investigate the transmission characteristics of OMSV to progeny via basidiospores and horizontally to a new host. A total of 37 single-basidiospore offspring were obtained from OMSV-infected P. ostreatus and Pleurotus pulmonarius for Western blot detection of OMSV. The OMSV-carrying rate among monokaryotic isolates was 19% in P. ostreatus and 44% in P. pulmonarius. Then, OMSV-free and OMSV-infected monokaryotic isolates were selected for hybridization with harvested dikaryotic progeny strains. Western blot analyses of the offspring revealed that the OMSV transmission efficiency was 50% in P. ostreatus and 75% in P. pulmonarius, indicating vertical transmission via sexual basidiospores. Furthermore, we observed the horizontal transfer of OMSV from P. pulmonarius to Pleurotus floridanus. OMSV infection in P. floridanus resulted in significant inhibition of mycelial growth and yield loss. This study was novel in reporting the vertical transmission of OMSV through basidiospores, and its infection and pathogenicity in a new host P. floridanus.
MicroRNAs Associated with Metformin Treatment in the Diabetes Prevention Program
Authors: Lewis Kimberly A. , Stroebel Benjamin M. , Zhang Li , Aouizerat Bradley , Mattis Aras N. , Flowers Elena
Published: May 2024

The Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) randomized controlled trial demonstrated that metformin treatment reduced progression to type 2 diabetes (T2D) by 31% compared to placebo in adults with prediabetes. Circulating micro-ribonucleic acids (miRs) are promising biomarkers of T2D risk, but little is known about their associations with metformin regimens for T2D risk reduction. We compared the change in 24 circulating miRs from baseline to 2 years in a subset from DPP metformin intervention (n = 50) and placebo (n = 50) groups using Wilcoxon signed rank tests. Spearman correlations were used to evaluate associations between miR change and baseline clinical characteristics. Multiple linear regression was used to adjust for covariates. The sample was 73% female, 17% Black, 13% Hispanic, and 50 ± 11 years. Participants were obese, normotensive, prediabetic, and dyslipidemic. Change in 12 miR levels from baseline to 2 years was significantly different in the metformin group compared with placebo after adjusting for multiple comparisons: six (let-7c-5p, miR-151a-3p, miR-17-5p, miR-20b-5p, miR-29b-3p, and miR-93-5p) were significantly upregulated and six (miR-130b-3p, miR-22-3p, miR-222-3p, miR-320a-3p, miR-320c, miR-92a-3p) were significantly downregulated in the metformin group. These miRs help to explain how metformin is linked to T2D risk reduction, which may lead to novel biomarkers, therapeutics, and precision health strategies.
Neuromodulatory Responses Elicited by Intermittent versus Continuous Transcranial Focused Ultrasound Stimulation of the Motor Cortex in Rats
Authors: Hsieh Tsung-Hsun , Chu Po-Chun , Nguyen Thi Xuan Dieu , Kuo Chi-Wei , Chang Pi-Kai , Chen Kai-Hsiang Stanley , Liu Hao-Li
Published: May 2024

Transcranial focused ultrasound stimulation (tFUS) has emerged as a promising neuromodulation technique that delivers acoustic energy with high spatial resolution for inducing long-term potentiation (LTP)- or depression (LTD)-like plasticity. The variability in the primary effects of tFUS-induced plasticity could be due to different stimulation patterns, such as intermittent versus continuous, and is an aspect that requires further detailed exploration. In this study, we developed a platform to evaluate the neuromodulatory effects of intermittent and continuous tFUS on motor cortical plasticity before and after tFUS application. Three groups of rats were exposed to either intermittent, continuous, or sham tFUS. We analyzed the neuromodulatory effects on motor cortical excitability by examining changes in motor-evoked potentials (MEPs) elicited by transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). We also investigated the effects of different stimulation patterns on excitatory and inhibitory neural biomarkers, examining c-Fos and glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD-65) expression using immunohistochemistry staining. Additionally, we evaluated the safety of tFUS by analyzing glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) expression. The current results indicated that intermittent tFUS produced a facilitation effect on motor excitability, while continuous tFUS significantly inhibited motor excitability. Furthermore, neither tFUS approach caused injury to the stimulation sites in rats. Immunohistochemistry staining revealed increased c-Fos and decreased GAD-65 expression following intermittent tFUS. Conversely, continuous tFUS downregulated c-Fos and upregulated GAD-65 expression. In conclusion, our findings demonstrate that both intermittent and continuous tFUS effectively modulate cortical excitability. The neuromodulatory effects may result from the activation or deactivation of cortical neurons following tFUS intervention. These effects are considered safe and well-tolerated, highlighting the potential for using different patterns of tFUS in future clinical neuromodulatory applications.
A Combination of Microarray-Based Profiling and Biocomputational Analysis Identified miR331-3p and hsa-let-7d-5p as Potential Biomarkers of Ulcerative Colitis Progression to Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Chacon-Millan Pilar , Lama Stefania , Del Gaudio Nunzio , Gravina Antonietta , Federico Alessandro , Pellegrino Raffaele , Luce Amalia , Altucci Lucia , Facchiano Angelo , Caraglia Michele , Stiuso Paola
Published: May 2024

Ulcerative colitis (UC), an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), may increase the risk of colorectal cancer (CRC) by activating chronic proinflammatory pathways. The goal of this study was to find serum prediction biomarkers in UC to CRC development by combining low-density miRNA microarray and biocomputational approaches. The UC and CRC miRNA expression profiles were compared by low-density miRNA microarray, finding five upregulated miRNAs specific to UC progression to CRC (hsa-let-7d-5p, hsa-miR-16-5p, hsa-miR-145-5p, hsa-miR-223-5p, and hsa-miR-331-3p). The circRNA/miRNA/mRNA competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network analysis showed that the candidate miRNAs were connected to well-known colitis-associated CRC ACVR2A, SOCS1, IGF2BP1, FAM126A, and CCDC85C mRNAs, and circ-SHPRH circRNA. SST and SCARA5 genes regulated by hsa-let-7d-5p, hsa-miR-145-5p, and hsa-miR-331-3p were linked to a poor survival prognosis in a CRC patient dataset from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). Lastly, our mRNA and miRNA candidates were validated by comparing their expression to differentially expressed mRNAs and miRNAs from colitis-associated CRC tissue databases. A high level of hsa-miR-331-3p and a parallel reduction in SOCS1 mRNA were found in tissue and serum. We propose hsa-miR-331-3p and possibly hsa-let-7d-5p as novel serum biomarkers for predicting UC progression to CRC. More clinical sample analysis is required for further validation.
Those That Remain Caught in the “Organic Matter Trap”: Sorption/Desorption Study for Levelling the Fate of Selected Neonicotinoids
Authors: Sinčić Modrić Gordana , Marinić Jelena , Karleuša Romano , Dubrović Igor , Kosobucki Przemysław , Broznić Dalibor
Published: May 2024

With projections suggesting an increase in the global use of neonicotinoids, contemporary farmers can get caught on the “pesticide treadmill”, thus creating ecosystem side effects. The aim of this study was to investigate the sorption/desorption behavior of acetamiprid, imidacloprid, and thiacloprid that controls their availability to other fate-determining processes and thus could be useful in leveling the risk these insecticides or their structural analogues pose to the environment, animals, and human health. Sorption/desorption isotherms in four soils with different organic matter (OC) content were modelled by nonlinear equilibrium models: Freundlich’s, Langmuir’s, and Temkin’s. Sorption/desorption parameters obtained by Freundlich’s model were correlated to soil physico-chemical characteristics. Even though the OC content had the dominant role in the sorption of the three insecticides, the role of its nature as well as the chemical structure of neonicotinoids cannot be discarded. Insecticides sorbed in the glassy OC phase will be poorly available unlike those in the rubbery regions. Imidacloprid will fill the sorption sites equally in the rubbery and glassy phases irrespective of its concentration. The sorption of thiacloprid at low concentrations and acetamiprid at high concentrations is controlled by hydrophilic aromatic structures, “trapping” the insecticides in the pores of the glassy phase of OC.
Effects of Respiratory Muscle Training on Functional Ability, Pain-Related Outcomes, and Respiratory Function in Individuals with Low Back Pain: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Fabero-Garrido Raúl , Rodríguez-Marcos Iván , del Corral Tamara , Plaza-Manzano Gustavo , López-de-Uralde-Villanueva Ibai
Published: May 2024

Objectives: The aim of this meta-analysis was to determine the effects of respiratory muscle training (RMT) on functional ability, pain-related outcomes, and respiratory function in individuals with sub-acute and chronic low back pain (LBP). Methods: The study selection was as follows: (participants) adult individuals with >4 weeks of LBP; (intervention) RMT; (comparison) any comparison RMT (inspiratory or expiratory or mixed) versus control; (outcomes) postural control, lumbar disability, pain-related outcomes, pain-related fear-avoidance beliefs, respiratory muscle function, and pulmonary function; and (study design) randomized controlled trials. Results: 11 studies were included in the meta-analysis showing that RMT produces a statistically significant increase in postural control (mean difference (MD) = 21.71 [12.22; 31.21]; decrease in lumbar disability (standardized mean difference (SMD) = 0.55 [0.001; 1.09]); decrease in lumbar pain intensity (SMD = 0.77 [0.15; 1.38]; increase in expiratory muscle strength (MD = 8.05 [5.34; 10.76]); and increase in forced vital capacity (FVC) (MD = 0.30 [0.03; 0.58]) compared with a control group. However, RMT does not produce an increase in inspiratory muscle strength (MD = 18.36 [−1.61; 38.34]) and in forced expiratory volume at the first second (FEV1) (MD = 0.36 [−0.02; 0.75]; and in the FEV1/FVC ratio (MD = 1.55 [−5.87; 8.96]) compared with the control group. Conclusions: RMT could improve expiratory muscle strength and FVC, with a moderate quality of evidence, whereas a low quality of evidence suggests that RMT could improve postural control, lumbar disability, and pain intensity in individuals with sub-acute and chronic LBP. However, more studies of high methodological quality are needed to strengthen the results of this meta-analysis.
Reverse Shoulder Prosthesis for Proximal Humeral Fractures: Primary Treatment vs. Salvage Procedure
Authors: Caldaria Antonio , Saccone Luca , Biagi Nicolò , Giovannetti de Sanctis Edoardo , Baldari Angelo , Palumbo Alessio , Franceschi Francesco
Published: May 2024

Background: The optimal treatment for complex proximal humerus fractures (PHFs) lacks consensus, with reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) often being a final resort rather than a primary approach. This study aimed to compare outcomes and satisfaction rates of primary RTSA for PHFs versus salvage RTSA for previously unsuccessful treatments. We hypothesized that primary RTSA would yield superior clinical outcomes, functional scores, and patient satisfaction. Methods: A retrospective analysis of RSA procedures between 2011 and 2021 was conducted, focusing on primary RTSA for PHFs or salvage RTSA for failed osteosynthesis. Patients meeting inclusion criteria underwent clinical and radiological follow-up for at least two years. Demographic characteristics, outcomes scores, and range of motion (ROM) were assessed. Results: Of 63 patients, 42 underwent primary RTSA and 21 underwent salvage RTSA. The median follow-up was 50 months. Statistically significant differences favored primary RTSA in forward flexion, abduction, internal rotation, and Constant shoulder score. Patient satisfaction levels did not significantly differ between groups. Complications occurred in 7.15% of primary RTSA cases and 14.28% of salvage RTSA cases. Conclusions: Primary RTSA may yield slightly better outcomes and lower complication rates compared to salvage RTSA. Further prospective studies are necessary to validate these findings.
Knockout Genes in Bowel Anastomoses: A Systematic Review of Literature Outcomes
Authors: Geropoulos Georgios , Psarras Kyriakos , Koimtzis Georgios , Fornasiero Massimiliano , Anestiadou Elissavet , Geropoulos Vasileios , Michopoulou Anna , Papaioannou Maria , Kouzi-Koliakou Kokkona , Galanis Ioannis
Published: May 2024

Background: The intestinal wound healing process is a complex event of three overlapping phases: exudative, proliferative, and remodeling. Although some mechanisms have been extensively described, the intestinal healing process is still not fully understood. There are some similarities but also some differences compared to other tissues. The aim of this systematic review was to summarize all studies with knockout (KO) experimental models in bowel anastomoses, underline any recent knowledge, and clarify further the cellular and molecular mechanisms of the intestinal healing process. A systematic review protocol was performed. Materials and methods: Medline, EMBASE, and Scopus were comprehensively searched. Results: a total of eight studies were included. The silenced genes included interleukin-10, the four-and-one-half LIM domain-containing protein 2 (FHL2), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), annexin A1 (ANXA-1), thrombin-activatable fibrinolysis inhibitor (TAFI), and heparin-binding epidermal growth factor (HB-EGF) gene. Surgically, an end-to-end bowel anastomosis was performed in the majority of the studies. Increased inflammatory cell infiltration in the anastomotic site was found in IL-10-, annexin-A1-, and TAFI-deficient mice compared to controls. COX-1 deficiency showed decreased angiogenesis at the anastomotic site. Administration of prostaglandin E2 in COX-2-deficient mice partially improved anastomotic leak rates, while treatment of ANXA1 KO mice with Ac2-26 nanoparticles reduced colitis activity and increased weight recovery following surgery. Conclusions: our findings provide new insights into improving intestinal wound healing by amplifying the aforementioned genes using appropriate gene therapies. Further research is required to clarify further the cellular and micromolecular mechanisms of intestinal healing.
Exploring Health Informatics in the Battle against Drug Addiction: Digital Solutions for the Rising Concern
Authors: Shimu Shakila Jahan , Patil Srushti Moreshwar , Dadzie Ebenezer , Tesfaye Tadele , Alag Poorvanshi , Więckiewicz Gniewko
Published: May 2024

Drug addiction is a rising concern globally that has deeply attracted the attention of the healthcare sector. The United States is not an exception, and the drug addiction crisis there is even more serious, with 10% of adults having faced substance use disorder, while around 75% of this number has been reported as not having received any treatment. Surprisingly, there are annually over 70,000 deaths reported as being due to drug overdose. Researchers are continually searching for solutions, as the current strategies have been ineffective. Health informatics platforms like electronic health records, telemedicine, and the clinical decision support system have great potential in tracking the healthcare data of patients on an individual basis and provide precise medical support in a private space. Such technologies have been found to be useful in identifying the risk factors of drug addiction among people and mitigating them. Moreover, the platforms can be used to check prescriptions of addictive drugs such as opioids and caution healthcare providers. Programs such as the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP) and the Drug and Alcohol Services Information Systems (DASIS) are already in action in the US, but the situation demands more in-depth studies in order to mitigate substance use disorders. Artificial intelligence (AI), when combined with health informatics, can aid in the analysis of large amounts of patient data and aid in classifying nature of addiction to assist in the provision of personalized care.
Safety Perceptions and Micro-Segregation: Exploring Gated- and Non-Gated-Community Dynamics in Quetta, Pakistan
Authors: Iqbal Asifa , Shaukat Tahira , Nazir Humaira
Published: May 2024

Crime impacts residential neighborhoods not only through the loss of life and property but also by instilling a widespread fear among residents. To combat this fear, physical security measures like safety locks, gates, and high perimeter walls have proven effective in both developed and developing nations. This trend has led to the increased popularity of gated communities in Pakistan as a preferred housing choice. In addition to encouraging micro-segregation, these developments also attract a large number of residents. In order to better understand the differences in residents’ fear of crime in relation to their health and socio-economic status, this paper compares residential housing schemes in Quetta, Pakistan (gated and non-gated). Surveys and on-site observations in four different residential areas of the city underpin the methodology. The results suggest that past experiences of crime victimization strongly affect feelings of safety in both gated and non-gated communities. The study highlights the complex relationship between the perception of safety, health and well-being, socio-economic status, and the type of community, highlighting how these factors collectively influence respondents’ experiences and create micro-segregation.