bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Compact and Efficient Topological Mapping for Large-Scale Environment with Pruned Voronoi Diagram
Authors: Qi Yao , Wang Rendong , He Binbing , Lu Feng , Xu Youchun
Published: July 2022

Topological maps generated in complex and irregular unknown environments are meaningful for autonomous robots’ navigation. To obtain the skeleton of the environment without obstacle polygon extraction and clustering, we propose a method to obtain high-quality topological maps using only pure Voronoi diagrams in three steps. Supported by Voronoi vertex’s property of the largest empty circle, the method updates the global topological map incrementally in both dynamic and static environments online. The incremental method can be adapted to any fundamental Voronoi diagram generator. We maintain the entire space by two graphs, the pruned Voronoi graph for incremental updates and the reduced approximated generalized Voronoi graph for routing planning requests. We present an extensive benchmark and real-world experiment, and our method completes the environment representation in both indoor and outdoor areas. The proposed method generates a compact topological map in both small- and large-scale scenarios, which is defined as the total length and vertices of topological maps. Additionally, our method has been shortened by several orders of magnitude in terms of the total length and consumes less than 30% of the average time cost compared to state-of-the-art methods.
The Impact of Changes in Financial Supervision on the Profitability of the Hungarian Banking Sector
Authors: Bareith Tibor , Tatay Tibor , Varga József
Published: July 2022

Since 2013, the central bank has been responsible for supervision in Hungary. In addition to the regulatory change, a law was published in the same year that started the process of abolishing the savings co-operative system. This paper investigates the impact of these two significant changes on the profitability of the Hungarian banking sector between 2003 and 2019 using dynamic panel model estimates. The supervisory change has reduced the profitability of credit institutions and tighter supervision has been implemented. The transformation of the savings co-operative system was in fact an integration that led to the disappearance of savings co-operatives by 2019. Competition in the market has been weakened, which has increased the profitability of the remaining financial institutions. The results were robust in terms of the multiple specifications and profitability ratio.
Mindless Memorization Booster: A Method to Influence Memorization Power Using Attention Induction Phenomena Caused by Visual Interface Modulation and Its Application to Memorization Support for English Vocabulary Learning
Authors: Futami Kyosuke , Kawahigashi Daisuke , Murao Kazuya
Published: July 2022

Memorization is necessary for various fields, such as language learning in the field of education. While memorization learning is often tedious and demotivating due to requiring conscious effort, few support approaches improve memorization unconsciously with low conscious effort. In this study, we propose a method, Mindless Memorization Booster, which improves users’ memorization unconsciously by visual stimuli of modulating the visual interface. This method is based on previous findings that the modulation of perceptual stimuli arouses attention/concentration. When the user looks at the memorization target, the proposed method presents a change in visual interface (e.g., changes in memorization target size, background color, and visual icon movement) to cause a psychological phenomenon of affecting the user’s attention and concentration, aiming at enhancing the memorization unconsciously. A prototype system of the proposed method was implemented for an English vocabulary memorization learning application. The evaluation results showed that the user’s memorization result was affected by the proposed method, and the speed of recall (i.e., outputs of the memorization word from the brain) increased by about 1 s per one memorization word without causing a negative affection on the number of correct answers for memorization. This result indicated the feasibility of the proposed method for memorization learning support. Our findings are helpful for designing visual information interfaces that consider the phenomena affecting the user’s memorization and promote memorization learning unconsciously.
The Application of Adaptive Tolerance and Serialized Facial Feature Extraction to Automatic Attendance Systems
Authors: Lin Chun-Ling , Huang Yi-Huai
Published: July 2022

The aim of this study was to develop a real-time automatic attendance system (AAS) based on Internet of Things (IoT) technology and facial recognition. A Raspberry Pi camera built into a Raspberry Pi 3B is used to transfer facial images to a cloud server. Face detection and recognition libraries are implemented on this cloud server, which thus can handle all the processes involved with the automatic recording of student attendance. In addition, this study proposes the application of data serialization processing and adaptive tolerance vis-à-vis Euclidean distance. The facial features encountered are processed using data serialization before they are saved in the SQLite database; such serialized data can easily be written and then read back from the database. When examining the differences between the facial features already stored in the SQLite databases and any new facial features, the proposed adaptive tolerance system can improve the performance of the facial recognition method applying Euclidean distance. The results of this study show that the proposed AAS can recognize multiple faces and so record attendance automatically. The AAS proposed in this study can assist in the detection of students who attempt to skip classes without the knowledge of their teachers. The problem of students being unintentionally marked present, though absent, and the problem of proxies is also resolved.
Design and Thermal Analysis of Linear Hybrid Excited Flux Switching Machine Using Ferrite Magnets
Authors: Jan Himayat Ullah , Khan Faisal , Ullah Basharat , Qasim Muhammad , Milyani Ahmad H. , Azhari Abdullah Ahmed
Published: July 2022

This paper presents a novel linear hybrid excited flux switching permanent magnet machine (LHEFSPMM) with a crooked tooth modular stator. Conventional stators are made up of a pure iron core, which results in high manufacturing costs and increased iron core losses. Using a modular stator lowers the iron volume by up to 18% compared to a conventional stator, which minimizes the core losses and reduces the machine’s overall cost. A crooked angle is introduced to improve the flux linkage between the stator pole and the mover slot. Ferrite magnets are used with parallel magnetization to reduce the cost of the machine. Two-dimensional FEA is performed to analyze and evaluate various performance parameters of the proposed machine. Geometric optimization is used to optimize the split ratio (S.R) and winding slot area (Slotarea). Genetic algorithm (GA) is applied and is used to optimize stator tooth width (STW), space between the modules (SS), crooked angle (α), and starting angle (θ). The proposed model has a high thrust density (306.61 kN/m3), lower detent force (8.4 N), and a simpler design with higher efficiency (86%). The linear modular structure makes it a good candidate for railway transportation and electric trains. Thermal analysis of the machine is performed by FEA and then the results are validated by an LPMEC model. Overall, a very good agreement is observed between both the analyses, and relative percentage error of less than 3% is achieved, which is considerable since the FEA is in 3D while 2D temperature flow is considered in the LPMEC model.
An Evaluation of Co-Simulation for Modeling Coupled Natural Gas and Electricity Networks
Authors: Sergi Brian , Pambour Kwabena
Published: July 2022

Reliance on natural gas for power generation has increased the coupling between gas and power networks. While this coupling can bring operational and economic benefits, it can also yield challenges, as the constraints in one system can impact the other. Co-simulation can capture the constraints and interactions between these systems, but so far, there has been limited comparison of co-simulation results to those of an integrated model. In this work, we develop a new co-simulation framework using the HELICS platform and the SAInt tool for modeling transient gas and AC optimal power flow. We evaluate this co-simulation framework against a fully integrated version of the SAInt power and gas simulators, thus providing a benchmarking of the co-simulation approach. We compare results across the two approaches for two test networks and a network representing the Belgian power and gas networks, testing both normal operating conditions and cases with compressor disruptions. In each of the cases tested, we find nearly identical results from the two approaches across various metrics of interest, such as nodal pressure, gas flow rates, and active power generation. This alignment suggests that co-simulation can yield comparable results to fully integrated models for modeling coupled gas and electricity networks.
A Bidirectional DHC-LT Resonant DC-DC Converter with Research on Improved Fundamental Harmonic Analysis Considering Phase Angle of Load Impedance
Authors: Zhang Shuhuai , Wu Xuezhi , Zhang Ziqian , Zhang Xuejiang
Published: July 2022

This paper presents a novel 400 V–50 V bidirectional DHC-LT resonant DC-DC converter. By adding a resonant capacitor and an auxiliary transformer based on LLC, zero-voltage switching (ZVS) and zero-current switching (ZCS) are achieved, while the output voltage gain range is broadened in two directions. Operation principles and robustness are discussed with equations. Then, the error factor of fundamental harmonic analysis (FHA) in resonant converters is analyzed. Considering the phase difference between the output voltage and resonant tank current, an improved method is proposed to describe the behavior of the DHC-LT converter more precisely. A comparison is conducted to prove the effectiveness of the proposed FHA. Furthermore, in order to reduce the output voltage and provide a ripple-free charging current, a fixed-frequency phase-shift strategy is introduced in the DHC-LT converter. ZVS can be realized through the reasonable design of dead time and phase-shift angle. Finally, a 2.5 kW prototype of the DHC-LT resonant DC-DC converter with a digital signal processor (DSP) platform and a battery/PV DC test system is established in the lab to validate the theoretical analysis.
Natural Gas Sweetening Using an Energy-Efficient, State-of-the-Art, Solid–Vapor Separation Process
Authors: Ababneh Hani , AlNouss Ahmed , Karimi Iftekhar , Al-Muhtaseb Shaheen
Published: July 2022

With the anticipated rise in global demand for natural gas (NG) and liquefied natural gas (LNG), sour gas reserves are attracting the attention of the gas industry as a potential resource. However, to monetize these reserves, sour natural gas has to be sweetened by removing acid gases (carbon dioxide and/or hydrogen sulfide) before liquefaction. The solidification of these acid gases could be the basis for their separation from natural gas. In this study, a state-of-the art solid-vapor (SV) separation unit is developed for removal of acid gases from methane and simulated using a customized Aspen Plus operation unit. The operating principles and conditions, mathematical model, and performance results are presented for the SV unit. Further performance analyses, means of optimization and comparisons to conventional methods used by the industry were studied. Results showed that for similar sweet gas purity, the developed SV unit consumes only 27% of the energy required by the amine sweetening unit. Furthermore, it saves on capital costs, as it requires less equipment and does not suffer from high levels of corrosion.
Modeling, Optimization, and Analysis of a Virtual Power Plant Demand Response Mechanism for the Internal Electricity Market Considering the Uncertainty of Renewable Energy Sources
Authors: Ullah Zahid , Arshad  , Hassanin Hany
Published: July 2022

The penetration of renewable energy sources (RESs) in the electrical power system has increased significantly over the past years due to increasing global concern about climate change. However, integrating RESs into the power market is highly problematic. The output of RESs such as wind turbines (WTs) and photovoltaics (PVs) is highly uncertain. Their correlation with load demand is not always guaranteed, which compromises system reliability. Distributed energy resources (DERs), especially demand response (DR) programs and energy storage systems (ESSs), are possible options to overcome these operational challenges under the virtual power plant (VPP) setting. This study investigates the impact of using a DR program and battery energy storage system (BESS) on the VPP’s internal electricity market, and also cost-minimization analysis from a utility viewpoint. Three different constrained optimal power flow (OPF) problems are solved such as base case, DR case, and BESS case to determine total incurred costs, locational marginal prices (LMPs), and generator commitments. A scenario tree approach is used to model the uncertainties associated with WTs, PVs, and load demand. The proposed model is investigated on a 14-bus distribution system. The simulation results obtained demonstrate a favorable impact of DR and a BESS on renewable operational challenges.
Experimental Study of Intra-Ring Anatomical Variation in Populus alba L. with Respect to Changes in Temperature and Day-Length Conditions
Authors: Baba Kei’ichi , Kurita Yuko , Mimura Tetsuro
Published: July 2022

There are various studies on annual ring structural variations in plants grown in the field under varying meteorological statistics. However, related experimental approach is limited, hitherto. In this study, complete artificial conditions with growth chambers were adopted to evaluate the influence of day length and temperature on intra-ring structure formation. The basic artificial growing conditions have been previously reported as “shortened annual cycle system”, which consisted of the following three stages mimicking seasons approximately: Stage 1, spring/summer; Stage 2, autumn; and Stage 3, winter. This system shortens an annual cycle of Populus alba to 5 months. In this study, Stage 2 was modified in two ways: one was a condition in which the temperature was fixed and the day length was gradually shortened, and the other was a condition with a fixed day length and gradually lowered temperature. In the former condition, the cell wall of fibers thickened from the middle of the ring, and the vessel diameter became smaller from the same position. The wood in the latter condition appeared more natural in terms of wall thickness and vessel shape; however, the thickness of the wall reduced in the starting position of Stage 2. It may have been caused by the shortage of material for cell production under a high temperature but a short day length.
Multifractal Cross-Correlations of Bitcoin and Ether Trading Characteristics in the Post-COVID-19 Time
Authors: Wątorek Marcin , Kwapień Jarosław , Drożdż Stanisław
Published: July 2022

Unlike price fluctuations, the temporal structure of cryptocurrency trading has seldom been a subject of systematic study. In order to fill this gap, we analyse detrended correlations of the price returns, the average number of trades in time unit, and the traded volume based on high-frequency data representing two major cryptocurrencies: bitcoin and ether. We apply the multifractal detrended cross-correlation analysis, which is considered the most reliable method for identifying nonlinear correlations in time series. We find that all the quantities considered in our study show an unambiguous multifractal structure from both the univariate (auto-correlation) and bivariate (cross-correlation) perspectives. We looked at the bitcoin–ether cross-correlations in simultaneously recorded signals, as well as in time-lagged signals, in which a time series for one of the cryptocurrencies is shifted with respect to the other. Such a shift suppresses the cross-correlations partially for short time scales, but does not remove them completely. We did not observe any qualitative asymmetry in the results for the two choices of a leading asset. The cross-correlations for the simultaneous and lagged time series became the same in magnitude for the sufficiently long scales.
Population Structure, Age and Growth of Sardine (Sardina pilchardus, Walbaum, 1792) in an Upwelling Environment
Authors: Baldé Bocar Sabaly , Brehmer Patrice , Faye Saliou , Diop Penda
Published: July 2022

Information on the biological parameters of exploited fish stocks facilitates the objective assessment and management of these living resources. The sardine (Sardina pilchardus) is considered as overexploited in northwest Africa. It is a key species of the Canaries current large marine ecosystem (CCLME) of the Atlantic Ocean due to its socioeconomic importance, as well as being a key intermediary species in marine food web. A massive decline in caught fish for Senegal over half a century is also reported (61,648 t in 1994 to 7486 t in 2017). Here, we analyzed the age and growth parameters of sardines in the Exclusive Economic Zone of northern Senegal. Maximum body size was 31 cm total length (TL). A growth performance index (φ′) and a growth rate coefficient (K) of 2.65 and 0.85, respectively, were determined, with this being the first record for this country. Sardines had higher asymptotic length (L∞, 30.5 cm TL) and age (6 years) in northern Senegal compared with Morocco (Atlantic Ocean) and the Mediterranean Sea. The asymptotic length found in Northern Senegal was also higher than in other part of the CCLME and Mediterranean Sea. This difference might be attributed to differences in the pelagic habitat, environmental factors, and/or fishing pressure. This study provides new insights towards establishing management measures, especially in data-poor fisheries and should act as an advocacy to increase sub-regional collaborations.
The Effects of Compressibility on the Performance and Modal Structures of a Sweeping Jet Emitted from Various Scales of a Fluidic Oscillator
Authors: Portillo Daniel J. , Hoffman Eugene , Garcia Matt , LaLonde Elijah , Combs Christopher , Hood R. Lyle
Published: July 2022

Investigations of fluidic oscillators, or sweeping jet actuators, have primarily been conducted within the incompressible flow regime, which limits the accuracy of estimating fluidic oscillator performance for compressible flows. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of gas compressibility on the performance of a fluidic oscillator. A commonly used fluidic oscillator geometry (the Bray geometry) was scaled to five different sizes, 3D printed, and tested over a range of air flow rates. High-speed Schlieren images captured the sweeping jet exiting the fluidic oscillators, and custom MATLAB algorithms were used to calculate the oscillation frequencies and angles. A spectral proper orthogonal decomposition (SPOD) method was used to identify and compare the mode structures within the flow fields. All the results were compared using dimensionless parameters to observe performance trends. The results showed that the oscillation frequencies were directly proportional to the flow rate, while the oscillation angles were inversely proportional to the flow rate, regardless of scale size. The angular velocities were not proportional to the flow rate or scale size and exhibited maxima within the evaluated ranges. For all scale sizes, the mode structures were symmetric across the centerlines of the fluidic oscillators and extended further beyond the fluidic oscillators at higher flow rates. These results enable the prediction of fluidic oscillator performance, which can significantly improve the design process for an application where a fluidic oscillator may be used, such as aerospace applications, power generation, heat exchangers, or medical devices.
On the Approximate Solution of the Cauchy Problem in a Multidimensional Unbounded Domain
Authors: Juraev Davron Aslonqulovich , Shokri Ali , Marian Daniela
Published: July 2022

In this paper, the Carleman matrix is constructed, and based on it we found explicitly a regularized solution of the Cauchy problem for the matrix factorization of the Helmholtz equation in a multidimensional unbounded domain in Rm,(m=2k,k≥2). The corresponding theorems on the stability of the solution of problems are proved.
Tamoxifen Citrate Containing Topical Nanoemulgel Prepared by Ultrasonication Technique: Formulation Design and In Vitro Evaluation
Authors: Alyami Mohammad H. , Alyami Hamad S. , Alshehri Abdullah A. , Alsharif Wijdan K. , Shaikh Ibrahim Ahmed , Algahtani Thamer S.
Published: July 2022

The present study aims to design and develop a nanoemulgel formulation of Tamoxifen citrate (TAM), a water-insoluble, potent anticancer drug, using the spontaneous emulsification method to improve topical delivery, achieve high accumulation at the tumour site, and spare the healthy tissues. The oil-based selection was related to the TAM solubility, while the surfactant and co-surfactant were chosen based on the droplets’ thermodynamic stability and size. Afterwards, a pseudo-ternary phase diagram was built for the most promising formulation using two oils, olive and sesame, with a varied mix of Tween 40 as the surfactant and Trascutol HP as the co-surfactant (Smix), by the optimisation of experiments. The nanoemulsion (NE) formulations that were prepared were found to have an average droplet size of 41.77 ± 1.23 nm and 188.37 ± 3.53 nm, with suitable thermodynamic stability and physicochemical properties. Both olive and sesame oils are natural food additives due to their associated antioxidant effects; therefore, they showed no toxicity profile on breast cell lines (MCF-7, ATCC number HTB-22). The TAM-NE preparations revealed a prolonged and doublings superior cumulative percentage of in vitro release of TAM compared to TAM plain gel suspension over 24 h. The release data suggested that the Higuchi model was the best fitting kinetical model for the developed formulations of NE1, NE9, and NE18. The extended release of the drug as well as an acceptable amount of the drug permeated TAM via nanogel preparations suggested that nanoemulgel (NEG) is suitable for the topical delivery of TAM in breast cancer management. Thus, this work suggests that a nanogel of TAM can improve anticancer properties and reduce systemic adverse effects compared to a suspension preparation of TAM when applied in the treatment of breast cancer.
Health-Related Quality of Life in Adults with Cystic Fibrosis: Familial, Occupational, Social, and Mental Health Predictors
Authors: Ancel Julien , Launois Claire , Perotin Jeanne-Marie , Ravoninjatovo Bruno , Mulette Pauline , Hagenburg Jean , Malet Julie , Griffon Muriel , Carré Sophie , Lebargy François , Deslée Gaëtan , Dury Sandra
Published: July 2022

Background: Cystic Fibrosis (CF) adult patients experience daily physical symptoms and disabilities that may impact their quality of life and mental health. Methods: This prospective study aimed to evaluate the relative contribution of the familial, occupational, and social environment, besides that of the main physical and mental health factors, to the quality of life of CF adult patients using the Cystic Fibrosis Questionnaire-Revised (CFQ-R) in a multivariate model. Results: Fifty patients were analyzed (70% of men; median age of 25 years; median body mass index of 21 kg/m²; median FEV1 of 57%). Anxiety and depression scores were negatively associated with 9 of the 12 CFQ-R domains. When controlling for anxiety and depression, FEV1% and BMI were significant positive predictors of several domains of the CFQ-R. All the familial, occupational, and social components analyzed but one (professional training) were predictors of at least one domain of the CFQ-R. Conclusion: Anxiety and depression explained a greater proportion of the variance than physical variables (age, sex, BMI, FEV1%, and exacerbation in the last year) in CF HRQoL. Many familial, occupational, and social components were also specifically and independently predictors of some HRQoL domains. Their screening might help identifying CF patients eligible for specific interventions, focusing on the impaired QoL dimensions.
Caring for Daughters with Anorexia Nervosa: A Qualitative Study on Parents’ Representation of the Problem and Management of the Disorder
Authors: Carpinelli Luna , Marinaci Tiziana , Savarese Giulia
Published: July 2022

Background: This study explores the implicit theories by which primary caregivers (PC) of patients diagnosed with anorexia nervosa (AN) understand the eating disorder and interpret their role in treating and managing the problem. Methodology: In-depth, semi-structured, and open interview questions were used to achieve the study’s goals. In total, 19 caregivers, 16 mothers, and three fathers (mean age: 50.74; SD: 5.248) from a public service for the treatment of behavioral disorders in southern Italy were interviewed. A lexical correspondence analysis (LCA) was applied to the verbatim transcripts to identify the main factorial dimensions, which organize similarity and dissimilarity in the collected discourses. Results: The first dimension represents the dialectic between two different models of explanation of the problem, and the second dimension represents the dialectic between two different perspectives on the attribution of responsibility. Overall, the analyses show the difficulties of PC in exploring the emotional dynamics of the problem and the tendency to take out of the family context every possible representation of the role that it can play in the maintenance and evolution of the disorder. Conclusions: The strategies to prevent and treat AN may benefit from knowledge of the meaning’s lenses adopted by the primary caregivers to explain and cope with their daughters’ illness.
How Was the World’s Oldest Metal-Type-Printed Book (The Song of Enlightenment, Korea, 1239) Misidentified for Nearly 50 Years?
Authors: Yoo Woo Sik
Published: July 2022

Six nearly identical versions of an ancient printed book, The Song of Enlightenment with Commentaries by Buddhist Monk Nammyeong Cheon (南明泉和尙頌證道歌), have been found in Korea since the 1920s. All of them were believed to be printed versions from the 13th to 16th centuries that used duplicated woodblocks of a metal-type-printed version from 1239 and its replica. Two of the six versions were designated as Korean treasures in 1984 and 2012. One other version was designated as a treasure of the Metropolitan city of Seoul, Korea in 2021. Since the 1970s, one of two Korean treasures has been identified as a potential movable metal-type-printed book prior to the Jikji printed in Korea in 1377, as recognized by the UNESCO Memory of the World program. The center of heated debates among Korean historians for the last 50 years was over the printing techniques and printing dates (or sequence). Due to the subjective nature of the examination, it was very difficult to reach a consensus. To end this heated debate, all six versions were examined by image comparisons of individual characters, lines of characters, pages and borderlines to identify whether they are the identical versions using the same woodblocks or different versions. Previous reports on the subjects were also reviewed very carefully. Very clear circumstantial and physical evidence showed that the one version designated as a Korean treasure in 2012 is significantly different from the others and was very likely printed using movable metal type in September 1239, as indicated in the imprint. It is the world’s oldest extant book printed using metal type in 1239, 138 years prior to the printing date (1377) of Jikji. The mystery of the misidentification of the metal-printed book, as a woodblock print, has been revealed.
Study on Spatiotemporal Variation Pattern of Vegetation Coverage on Qinghai–Tibet Plateau and the Analysis of Its Climate Driving Factors
Authors: Deng Xiaoyu , Wu Liangxu , He Chengjin , Shao Huaiyong
Published: July 2022

As one of the most sensitive areas to global environmental change, especially global climate change, the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau is an ideal area for studying global climate change and ecosystems. There are few studies on the analysis of the vegetation’s driving factors on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau based on large-scale and high-resolution data due to the incompetence of satellite sensors. In order to study the long-term vegetation spatiotemporal pattern and its driving factors, this study used the enhanced spatial and temporal adaptive reflectance fusion model (ESTARFM) to improve the spatial resolution of the GIMMS NDVI3g (8 km) data of the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau in 1990 and 1995 based on the MODIS NDVI (500 m) data. The research on the spatiotemporal pattern and driving factors of vegetation on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau from 1990 to 2015 was carried out afterward, with combined data including topographic factors, annual average temperature, and annual precipitation. The results showed that there was a strong correlation between the actual MODIS NDVI image and the fused GIMMS NDVI3g image, which means that the accuracy of the fused GIMMS NDVI3g image is reliable and can provide basic data for the accurate evaluation of the spatial and temporal patterns of vegetation on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau. From 1990 to 2015, the overall vegetation coverage of the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau showed a degrading trend at a rate of −0.41%, and the degradation trend of vegetation coverage was the weakest when the slope was ≥25°. Due to the influence of the policy of returning farmland to forests, the overall degradation trend has gradually weakened. The significant changes in vegetation in 2010 can be attributed to the difference in the spatial distribution of climatic factors such as temperature and precipitation. The area with reduced vegetation in the west was larger than the area with increased vegetation in the east. The effects of temperature and precipitation on the distribution, direction, and degradation level of vegetation coverage were varied by the areal differentiation in different zones.
Echocardiographic Characterization of Left Heart Morphology and Function in Highly Trained Male Judo Athletes
Authors: Slankamenac Jelena , Milovancev Aleksandra , Klasnja Aleksandar , Gavrilovic Tamara , Sekulic Damir , Kesic Marijana Geets , Trivic Tatjana , Kolarov Violeta , Drid Patrik
Published: July 2022

The long-term practice of judo can lead to various changes in the heart including increased dimensions of the left ventricle in diastole and thickening of the interventricular septum and the posterior wall of the left ventricle. This study aimed to assess left ventricular morphology and function in elite male judokas. A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted that included a total of 20 subjects, 10 judokas, and 10 healthy non-athletes aged 24 ± 2.85 years. Demographic and anthropometric data were analyzed. All subjects underwent a medical examination and a two-dimensional transthoracic echocardiogram. Different parameters of left ventricular morphology and function were measured and compared between athletes and non-athletes. Left ventricle mass and LV mass index were higher in judokas than in non-athletes (p < 0.05), as well as PW thickness (9.78 ± 0.89 mm vs. 8.95 ± 0.76 mm). A total of six (n = 6) of athletes had eccentric hypertrophy, while others had normal heart geometry. LVEDd, LVEDs, LVEDd/BSA, and LVEDs/BSA were significantly higher in judokas (p < 0.05). LVEDd in athletes ranged from 48 to 62 mm. These values, combined with normal diastolic function, ejection fraction, and shortening fraction, indicate that the judokas’ cardiac adaptation was physiological rather than pathological.
Association between Leptin (G2548A) and Leptin Receptor (Q223R) Polymorphisms with Plasma Leptin, BMI, Stress, Sleep and Eating Patterns among the Multiethnic Young Malaysian Adult Population from a Healthcare University
Authors: Mohanraj Jaiprakash , D’Souza Urban J. A. , Fong Siat Yee , Karkada Ivan Rolland , Jaiprakash Heethal
Published: July 2022

Relative leptin resistance in childhood to absolute leptin resistance in maturity suggests sleep, eating behaviour, and the psychological state as probable causes. The current body of research provides inconclusive evidence linking G2548A and Q223R to obesity. Furthermore, we could find very little data that have observed the association between the environment and gene polymorphism, especially in the multiethnic population that exists in Malaysia. This study searched for a possible link between sleeping habits, eating behaviour, and stress indicators with plasma leptin and its genetic variation in young adult Malaysian healthcare students. The study involved 185 first- and second-year medical and dental students from a healthcare university. Polymerase Chain Reaction–Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism(PCR-RFLP) determined the genotype, Enzyme Linked Immunoabsorbant Assay (ELISA) tested the serum leptin, and a self-administered questionnaire evaluated sleep, eating behaviour, and psychological condition. Gender and ethnicity are linked to fasting plasma leptin levels (p < 0.001). Plasma leptin also affects stress, anxiety, and sadness. Leptin (LEP) and Leptin Receptor (LEPR) polymorphisms were not associated with BMI, plasma leptin, sleep, eating behaviour, or psychological state. Young adult Malaysian Indians were obese and overweight, while Chinese were underweight. These findings imply overweight and obese participants were in stage I of leptin resistance and lifestyle change or leptin therapy could prevent them from becoming cripplingly obese as they age.
Virus Elimination from Naturally Infected Field Cultivars of Potato (Solanum tuberosum) by Transgenic RNA Interference
Authors: Alexandrova Alyona , Karpova Oxana , Kryldakov Ruslan , Golyaev Victor , Nargilova Rufina , Iskakov Bulat , Pooggin Mikhail M.
Published: July 2022

Tissue culture methods enable virus elimination from vegetatively propagated crop plants but cannot prevent new infections. Here we used a tissue culture transgenic approach for curing field cultivars of Solanum tuberosum through the stimulation of RNA interference (RNAi)-based antiviral defenses. Expression cassettes carrying inverted repeats of potato virus S (PVS, genus Carlavirus) movement or coat protein sequences were used for the transformation of potato cultivars naturally infected with PVS and/or a related carlavirus potato virus M (PVM), without or with potato virus Y (PVY, genus Potyvirus). A high proportion of transformants PCR-positive for transgenes were cured from both carlaviruses and PVY. After 3-year field trials, 22 transgenic lines representing seven cultivars remained free of any virus or became infected only with PVY. Vegetative progenies of the transgenic lines of cultivar Zeren (initially coinfected with PVS, PVM, and PVY), sampled after in vitro propagation or field trials, and other field cultivars accumulated transgene-derived 21, 22, and 24 nt small interfering (si)RNAs almost exclusively from the PVS inverted repeats. Additionally, some field progenies accumulated 21–22 nt siRNAs from the entire PVY genome, confirming PVY infection. Taken together, transgenic RNAi is effective for virus elimination from naturally infected potato cultivars and their sequence-specific immunization against new infections.
Reprogramming Metabolism of Macrophages as a Target for Kidney Dysfunction Treatment in Autoimmune Diseases
Authors: Tian Feng , Chen Hui , Zhang Jianmin , He Wei
Published: July 2022

Chronic kidney disease (CKD), as one of the main complications of many autoimmune diseases, is difficult to cure, which places a huge burden on patients’ health and the economy and poses a great threat to human health. At present, the mainstream view is that autoimmune diseases are a series of diseases and complications caused by immune cell dysfunction leading to the attack of an organism’s tissues by its immune cells. The kidney is the organ most seriously affected by autoimmune diseases as it has a very close relationship with immune cells. With the development of an in-depth understanding of cell metabolism in recent years, an increasing number of scientists have discovered the metabolic changes in immune cells in the process of disease development, and we have a clearer understanding of the characteristics of the metabolic changes in immune cells. This suggests that the regulation of immune cell metabolism provides a new direction for the treatment and prevention of kidney damage caused by autoimmune diseases. Macrophages are important immune cells and are a double-edged sword in the repair process of kidney injury. Although they can repair damaged kidney tissue, over-repair will also lead to the loss of renal structural reconstruction function. In this review, from the perspective of metabolism, the metabolic characteristics of macrophages in the process of renal injury induced by autoimmune diseases are described, and the metabolites that can regulate the function of macrophages are summarized. We believe that treating macrophage metabolism as a target can provide new ideas for the treatment of the renal injury caused by autoimmune diseases.
In Vivo Bio-Activation of JWH-175 to JWH-018: Pharmacodynamic and Pharmacokinetic Studies in Mice
Authors: Tirri Micaela , Arfè Raffaella , Bilel Sabrine , Corli Giorgia , Marchetti Beatrice , Fantinati Anna , Vincenzi Fabrizio , De-Giorgio Fabio , Camuto Cristian , Mazzarino Monica , Barbieri Mario , Gaudio Rosa Maria , Varani Katia , Borea Pier Andrea , Botrè Francesco , Marti Matteo
Published: July 2022

3-(1-Naphthalenylmethyl)-1-pentyl-1H-indole (JWH-175) is a synthetic cannabinoid illegally marketed for its psychoactive cannabis-like effects. This study aimed to investigate and compare in vitro and in vivo pharmacodynamic activity of JWH-175 with that of 1-naphthalenyl (1-pentyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-methanone (JWH-018), as well as evaluate the in vitro (human liver microsomes) and in vivo (urine and plasma of CD-1 male mice) metabolic profile of JWH-175. In vitro binding studies showed that JWH-175 is a cannabinoid receptor agonist less potent than JWH-018 on mouse and human CB1 and CB2 receptors. In agreement with in vitro data, JWH-175 reduced the fESPS in brain hippocampal slices of mice less effectively than JWH-018. Similarly, in vivo behavioral studies showed that JWH-175 impaired sensorimotor responses, reduced breath rate and motor activity, and increased pain threshold to mechanical stimuli less potently than JWH-018. Metabolic studies demonstrated that JWH-175 is rapidly bioactivated to JWH-018 in mice blood, suggesting that in vivo effects of JWH-175 are also due to JWH-018 formation. The pharmaco-toxicological profile of JWH-175 was characterized for the first time, proving its in vivo bio-activation to the more potent agonist JWH-018. Thus, it highlighted the great importance of investigating the in vivo metabolism of synthetic cannabinoids for both clinical toxicology and forensic purposes.
Different Roles of Dendritic Cells for Chronic Rhinosinusitis Treatment According to Phenotype
Authors: Tai Junhu , Kwak Jiwon , Han Munsoo , Kim Tae Hoon
Published: July 2022

Dendritic cells (DCs) are antigen-presenting cells derived from the bone marrow that play an important role in the association between the innate and adaptive immune responses. The onset and development of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) involve a serious imbalance in immune regulation and mechanical dysfunction caused by an abnormal remodeling process. Recent studies have shown that an increase in DCs in CRS and their function of shaping the nasal mucosal immune response may play an important role in the pathogenesis of CRS. In this review, we discuss DC subsets in mice and humans, as well as the function of DCs in the nasal sinus mucosa. In addition, the mechanism by which DCs can be used as targets for therapeutic intervention for CRS and potential future research directions are also discussed.
ATP13A2 Declines Zinc-Induced Accumulation of α-Synuclein in a Parkinson’s Disease Model
Authors: Gao Huiling , Sun Hehong , Yan Nan , Zhao Pu , Xu He , Zheng Wei , Zhang Xiaoyu , Wang Tao , Guo Chuang , Zhong Manli
Published: July 2022

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is characterized by the presence of Lewy bodies caused by α-synuclein. The imbalance of zinc homeostasis is a major cause of PD, promoting α-synuclein accumulation. ATP13A2, a transporter found in acidic vesicles, plays an important role in Zn2+ homeostasis and is highly expressed in Lewy bodies in PD-surviving neurons. ATP13A2 is involved in the transport of zinc ions in lysosomes and exosomes and inhibits the aggregation of α-synuclein. However, the potential mechanism underlying the regulation of zinc homeostasis and α-synuclein accumulation by ATP13A2 remains unexplored. We used α-synuclein-GFP transgenic mice and HEK293 α-synuclein-DsRed cell line as models. The spatial exploration behavior of mice was significantly reduced, and phosphorylation levels of α-synuclein increased upon high Zn2+ treatment. High Zn2+ also inhibited the autophagy pathway by reducing LAMP2a levels and changing the expression of LC3 and P62, by reducing mitochondrial membrane potential and increasing the expression of cytochrom C, and by activating the ERK/P38 apoptosis signaling pathway, ultimately leading to increased caspase 3 levels. These protein changes were reversed after ATP13A2 overexpression, whereas ATP13A2 knockout exacerbated α-synuclein phosphorylation levels. These results suggest that ATP13A2 may have a protective effect on Zn2+-induced abnormal aggregation of α-synuclein, lysosomal dysfunction, and apoptosis.
Genome-Wide Identification of Eucalyptus Heat Shock Transcription Factor Family and Their Transcriptional Analysis under Salt and Temperature Stresses
Authors: Yuan Tan , Liang Jianxiang , Dai Jiahao , Zhou Xue-Rong , Liao Wenhai , Guo Mingliang , Aslam Mohammad , Li Shubin , Cao Guangqiu , Cao Shijiang
Published: July 2022

Heat shock transcription factors (HSFs) activate heat shock protein gene expression by binding their promoters in response to heat stress and are considered to be pivotal transcription factors in plants. Eucalyptus is a superior source of fuel and commercial wood. During its growth, high temperature or other abiotic stresses could impact its defense capability and growth. Hsf genes have been cloned and sequenced in many plants, but rarely in Eucalyptus. In this study, we used bioinformatics methods to analyze and identify Eucalyptus Hsf genes, their chromosomal localization and structure. The phylogenetic relationship and conserved domains of their encoded proteins were further analyzed. A total of 36 Hsf genes were identified and authenticated from Eucalyptus, which were scattered across 11 chromosomes. They could be classified into three classes (A, B and C). Additionally, a large number of stress-related cis-regulatory elements were identified in the upstream promoter sequence of HSF, and cis-acting element analysis indicated that the expression of EgHsf may be regulated by plant growth and development, metabolism, hormones and stress responses. The expression profiles of five representative Hsf genes, EgHsf4, EgHsf9, EgHsf13, EgHsf24 and EgHsf32, under salt and temperature stresses were examined by qRT-PCR. The results show that the expression pattern of class B genes (EgHsf4, EgHsf24 and EgHsf32) was more tolerant to abiotic stresses than that of class A genes (EgHsf9 and EgHsf13). However, the expressions of all tested Hsf genes in six tissues were at different levels. Finally, we investigated the network of interplay between genes, and the results suggest that there may be synergistic effects between different Hsf genes in response to abiotic stresses. We conclude that the Hsf gene family played an important role in the growth and developmental processes of Eucalyptus and could be vital for maintaining cell homeostasis against external stresses. This study provides basic information on the members of the Hsf gene family in Eucalyptus and lays the foundation for the functional identification of related genes and the further investigation of their biological functions in plant stress regulation.
Acute on Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension: Case Series and Review of Management
Authors: Opitz Isabelle , Patella Miriam , Lauk Olivia , Inci Ilhan , Bettex Dominique , Horisberger Thomas , Schüpbach Reto , Keller Dagmar I. , Frauenfelder Thomas , Kucher Nils , Granton John , Pfammatter Thomas , de Perrot Marc , Ulrich Silvia
Published: July 2022

Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) is a distinct form of precapillary pulmonary hypertension classified as group 4 by the World Symposium on Pulmonary Hypertension (WSPH) and should be excluded during an episode of acute pulmonary embolism (PE). Patients presenting to emergency departments with sudden onset of signs and symptoms of acute PE may already have a pre-existing CTEPH condition decompensated by the new PE episode. Identifying an underlying and undiagnosed CTEPH during acute PE, while challenging, is an important consideration as it will alter the patients’ acute and long-term management. Differential diagnosis and evaluation require an interdisciplinary expert team. Analysis of the clinical condition, the CT angiogram, and the hemodynamic situation are important considerations; patients with CTEPH usually have significantly higher sPAP at the time of index PE, which is unusual and unattainable in the context of acute PE and a naïve right ventricle. The imaging may reveal signs of chronic disease such as right ventricle hypertrophy bronchial collaterals and atypical morphology of the thrombus. There is no standard for the management of acute on chronic CTEPH. Herein, we provide a diagnostic and management algorithm informed by several case descriptions and a review of the literature.
Central Giant Cell Granuloma in the Mandibular Condyle in a Teenager. A Case Report with Literature Review
Authors: Cantanhede André Luís Costa , Olate Sergio , de Assis Adriano Freitas , de Moraes Márcio
Published: July 2022

Central giant cell granulomas (CGCG) are not common in the mandibular condyle. In teenagers, the problem is more complex because of difficulties in diagnosis and treatment involving the potential growth of the mandibular process and development of the face. In this short communication a case is presented of an eleven-year-old female under diagnosis of central giant cell granuloma affecting the mandibular condyle treated surgically in two steps using a condylectomy and vertical ramus osteotomy at the first time and later orthognathic surgery, showing the clinical evolution after 13 years of follow-up. In addition, we performed a review of the scientific reports related to CGCG in the mandibular condyle to compare this treatment with others, in terms of follow-up and results. We concluded that the CGCG affecting the mandibular head can be properly treated with low condilectomy, vertical mandibular ramus sliding osteotomy, and discopexy.