bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding pandemic resilience: a mixed-methods exploration of burdens, resources, and determinants of good or poor well-being among Austrian psychotherapists
Authors: Schaffler Yvonne , Bauer Monika , Schein Barbara , Jesser Andrea , Probst Thomas , Pieh Christoph , Humer Elke
Published: August 2023

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the mental health burden on the general population, resulting in increased demands on mental healthcare professionals, including psychotherapists. This cross-sectional study assessed the challenges and resources encountered by 513 psychotherapists based on an online survey conducted between April and May 2022.

Methods

Qualitative methods content analysis of written reports was employed to investigate the emerging challenges and sources of support during the pandemic. A comparative analysis of burdens, resources, sociodemographic factors and daily physical activity was conducted to discern patterns of good and poor well-being.

Results

The predominant burden identified was mental health-related issues, followed by global crises and government-imposed restrictions to mitigate virus transmission. Essential resources encompassed social connections, mindfulness, work satisfaction, and internal processes. Notably, psychotherapists demonstrating good well-being were older, more physically active, had a lower proportion of females, were employed in private practices rather than in institutionalized settings, had more years of professional experience and treated more patients weekly than their counterparts with poor well-being. Furthermore, they exhibited greater optimism, health focus, and satisfaction with their coping methods.

Discussion

These findings can help develop support systems, policies, and educational programs to better support mental health professionals during global crises and offer strategies for individual practitioners to maintain their well-being.
A risk identification model for detection of patients at risk of antidepressant discontinuation
Authors: Zolnour Ali , Eldredge Christina E. , Faiola Anthony , Yaghoobzadeh Yadollah , Khani Masoud , Foy Doreen , Topaz Maxim , Kharrazi Hadi , Fung Kin Wah , Fontelo Paul , Davoudi Anahita , Tabaie Azade , Breitinger Scott A. , Oesterle Tyler S. , Rouhizadeh Masoud , Zonnor Zahra , Moen Hans , Patrick Timothy B. , Zolnoori Maryam
Published: August 2023

Purpose

Between 30 and 68% of patients prematurely discontinue their antidepressant treatment, posing significant risks to patient safety and healthcare outcomes. Online healthcare forums have the potential to offer a rich and unique source of data, revealing dimensions of antidepressant discontinuation that may not be captured by conventional data sources.

Methods

We analyzed 891 patient narratives from the online healthcare forum, “askapatient.com,” utilizing content analysis to create PsyRisk—a corpus highlighting the risk factors associated with antidepressant discontinuation. Leveraging PsyRisk, alongside PsyTAR [a publicly available corpus of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) related to antidepressants], we developed a machine learning-driven algorithm for proactive identification of patients at risk of abrupt antidepressant discontinuation.

Results

From the analyzed 891 patients, 232 reported antidepressant discontinuation. Among these patients, 92% experienced ADRs, and 72% found these reactions distressful, negatively affecting their daily activities. Approximately 26% of patients perceived the antidepressants as ineffective. Most reported ADRs were physiological (61%, 411/673), followed by cognitive (30%, 197/673), and psychological (28%, 188/673) ADRs. In our study, we employed a nested cross-validation strategy with an outer 5-fold cross-validation for model selection, and an inner 5-fold cross-validation for hyperparameter tuning. The performance of our risk identification algorithm, as assessed through this robust validation technique, yielded an AUC-ROC of 90.77 and an F1-score of 83.33. The most significant contributors to abrupt discontinuation were high perceived distress from ADRs and perceived ineffectiveness of the antidepressants.

Conclusion

The risk factors identified and the risk identification algorithm developed in this study have substantial potential for clinical application. They could assist healthcare professionals in identifying and managing patients with depression who are at risk of prematurely discontinuing their antidepressant treatment.
Integration of renewable energy resources into the water-energy-food nexus–Modeling a demand side management approach and application to a microgrid farm in Morocco
Authors: Agadi Redha , Sakhraoui Khadidja , Dupke Richard Karl Moritz , Wiebrow Enno , von Hirschhausen Christian
Published: August 2023

This paper introduces a framework aimed at analyzing the water-energy-food nexus (WEF) within the context of sustainable farming practices utilizing renewable energy sources, specifically Solar PV, to optimize water management efficiency. The focus lies on investigating the interplay between the water-energy-food nexus and both technical and institutional factors. The study particularly delves into the utilization of distributed energy systems and microgrids for electricity distribution. To achieve the objectives outlined, the framework is applied to a case study involving an off-grid farm in Morocco, aligned with the country's “Green Morocco Plan” of 2008. The study employs the AnyMOD open-source modeling framework in combination with the publicly available decision support tool CropWat (Version 8.0). Through this coupling, a linear optimization model is created to assess various irrigation practices, thus evaluating the energy and water supply variations across different crop growth stages. By employing scenario analysis, the study reveals that the integration of a smart microgrid alongside storage technologies proves beneficial in terms of reducing overall system costs. This integration presents cost-effective solutions and enables the establishment of a sustainable energy supply driven by renewable energy resources. Furthermore, the investigation highlights that constraining irrigation to specific hours of the day results in increased storage requirements and higher associated costs. In conclusion, the study underscores that enhancing the water-energy-food nexus through the integration of a renewable-based microgrid is a complex task. However, it significantly contributes to the development of sustainable farming solutions. This research sheds light on the challenges and opportunities associated with aligning renewable energy, water management, and agricultural practices, ultimately facilitating the pursuit of environmentally conscious and efficient farming methodologies.
Impacts of the joint adoption of improved varieties and chemical fertilizers on rice productivity in Bolivia: implications for Global Food Systems
Authors: Martinez Jose Maria , Labarta Ricardo A. , Gonzalez Carolina
Published: August 2023

Rice research and technology development in Latin America has increased yields and offered the opportunity for several countries to contribute to global food security by becoming net exporters of this cereal. In spite of the broad availability of rice technologies in the region, rice yields remain substantially low in countries like Bolivia. This study examines how Bolivian rice growers make simultaneous decisions about adopting improved varieties and chemical fertilizers and how this joint decision influences the productivity of this crop. By exploiting a nationally representative survey of rice producers, we use a multinomial logit model and an optimal instrumental variable approach to study both the correlates of technology adoption and the impacts of this adoption on rice yields. Our findings suggest that partial adoption of rice varieties or fertilizers does not affect yields, but the joint adoption of these technologies can almost double rice productivity. Promoting packages of agricultural technologies—instead of single technologies within efforts to make these technologies available for small farmers—would exploit the complementarities of different technologies and boost rice yields in Bolivia. The implications would not only be to achieve the desired self-sufficiency in rice production but also to follow similar pathways of other countries in the region that have become net exporters of rice and are contributing to Global Food Systems.
Influence of Peruvian Andean grain flours on the nutritional, rheological, physical, and sensory properties of sliced bread
Authors: García-Ramón Fernando , Sotelo-Méndez Alejandrina , Alvarez-Chancasanampa Hermelinda , Norabuena Edgar , Sumarriva Liliana , Yachi Karina , Gonzales Huamán Teresa , Naupay Vega Marlitt , Cornelio-Santiago Heber P.
Published: August 2023

The enrichment of sliced bread with Peruvian Andean grains can affect water absorption, formation time and stability of the dough, as well as the texture, color, specific volume and acceptability of the final product. However, the nutritional and functional properties of the product can be improved. In this study, traditional (TB, 100% wheat flour) and Andean (AB, 30% wheat bran, quinoa, kiwicha, oats, barley flours, and sesame and linseed seed) bread were manufactured by the direct method. The thermomechanical properties of the doughs were evaluated using the Mixolab, as well as the proximal composition, total phenolic content, texture, color, specific volume and sensory analysis of the sliced bread. The results revealed that the AB showed higher values in the parameters of water absorption (C1), protein weakening (C2), and starch stability (C4), likewise, lower values of setback related to starch retrogradation tendency (C5-C4) were found, which are related to a longer shelf life, which could be evidenced in the sensory properties (scores ≥5 on an unstructured 10-cm long scale, with respect to the crumb color, crust, alveolar uniformity, odor, texture, taste and general acceptability). In the AB there is also evidence of an increase in protein, ash, total dietary fiber and total phenolic content in relation to TB. These results could be useful to develop healthier and better-quality bread to meet the needs of consumers.
Advances in artificial intelligence, robotics, augmented and virtual reality in neurosurgery
Authors: Kazemzadeh Kimia , Akhlaghdoust Meisam , Zali Alireza
Published: August 2023

Neurosurgical practitioners undergo extensive and prolonged training to acquire diverse technical proficiencies, while neurosurgical procedures necessitate a substantial amount of pre-, post-, and intraoperative clinical data acquisition, making decisions, attention, and convalescence. The past decade witnessed an appreciable escalation in the significance of artificial intelligence (AI) in neurosurgery. AI holds significant potential in neurosurgery as it supplements the abilities of neurosurgeons to offer optimal interventional and non-interventional care to patients by improving prognostic and diagnostic outcomes in clinical therapy and assisting neurosurgeons in making decisions while surgical interventions to enhance patient outcomes. Other technologies including augmented reality, robotics, and virtual reality can assist and promote neurosurgical methods as well. Moreover, they play a significant role in generating, processing, as well as storing experimental and clinical data. Also, the usage of these technologies in neurosurgery is able to curtail the number of costs linked with surgical care and extend high-quality health care to a wider populace. This narrative review aims to integrate the results of articles that elucidate the role of the aforementioned technologies in neurosurgery.
Survival Benefit of Kidney Transplantation in Patients With End-Stage Kidney Disease and Prior Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Kim Deok-Gie , Cho Dong-Hyuk , Kim Kihyun , Kim Sung Hwa , Lee Juhan , Huh Kyu Ha , Kim Myoung Soo , Kang Dae Ryong , Yang Jae Won , Han Byoung Geun , Lee Jun Young
Published: August 2023

Patients with end stage kidney disease (ESKD) and a previous acute myocardial infarction (AMI) have less access to KT. Data on ESKD patients with an AMI history who underwent first KT or dialysis between January 2007 and December 2018 were extracted from the Korean National Health Insurance Service. Patients who underwent KT (n = 423) were chronologically matched in a 1:3 ratio with those maintained on dialysis (n = 1,269) at the corresponding dates, based on time-conditional propensity scores. The 1, 5, and 10 years cumulative incidences for all-cause mortality were 12.6%, 39.1%, and 60.1% in the dialysis group and 3.1%, 7.2%, and 14.5% in the KT group. Adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) of KT versus dialysis were 0.17 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.12–0.24; p < 0.001) for mortality and 0.38 (95% CI, 0.23–0.51; p < 0.001) for major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE). Of the MACE components, KT was most protective against cardiovascular death (HR, 0.23; 95% CI, 0.12–0.42; p < 0.001). Protective effects of KT for all-cause mortality and MACE were consistent across various subgroups, including patients at higher risk (e.g., age >65 years, recent AMI [<6 months], congestive heart failure). KT is associated with lower all-cause mortality and MACE than maintenance dialysis patients with a prior AMI.
Implementing a Precision Pneumatic Plug Tray Seeder with High Seeding Rates for Brassicaceae Seeds via Real-Time Trajectory Tracking Control
Authors: Lin Hao-Ting , Lee Yu-Hsien
Published: August 2023

In recent years, the aging of the rural population worldwide has become a major concern, necessitating the development of agricultural automation. Pneumatic energy has emerged as a reliable and environmentally friendly option, aiding in the global effort to reduce carbon emissions. The purpose of this study is to reduce the amount of labor required for plug tray seeding by developing an automated seeder that employs a precision pneumatic servo system via the rod-less actuator with real-time trajectory tracking capabilities. The proposed seeder has a simple structure, is easy to maintain, and saves energy. It mainly consists of a rod-less pneumatic cylinder, a needle seeding mechanism, a soil drilling mechanism and a PC-based real-time controller. Mathematical models of the developed precision pneumatic plug tray seeder are analyzed and established, and an adaptive sliding mode controller is proposed. A PC-based real-time control system is developed using MATLAB/SIMULINK via an optical encoder with a sampling frequency of 1 kHz to enable the development of precise pneumatic plug tray seeder. An optical encoder is used to measure the displacement of the rod-less cylinder which represents real-time positions of the plug tray loading platform. Experiments are conducted using Brassicaceae seeds, and the rates of single seeding, multiple seeding, missed seeding and germination are carried out through manual measurement. The results indicate that the seeder exhibits satisfactory performance, with a root mean square error of less than 0.5 mm and a single-seeding rate of more than 97%. Overall, our findings provide new insights for nurseries and could contribute to the reduction in agricultural carbon emissions.
Biodegradable Carboxymethyl Chitosan/Polyvinyl Alcohol Hymexazol-Loaded Mulch Film for Soybean Root Rot Control
Authors: Lv Ze , Meng Xiaohan , Sun Shaoyang , Jiang Tianzhen , Zhang Shengfu , Feng Jianguo
Published: August 2023

Soybean root rot is an important disease that has affected soybean crops in recent years, but the available control methods still do not provide good protection for soybeans. In this study, three biodegradable mulch films (HML@CMCS, HML@PVA, HML@CMCS/PVA) were prepared from carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCS) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), and hymexazol (HML) was loaded on them. The surface and cryofractured surface were compared via micromorphological observations using SEM, AFM, and 3D measurements. Mechanical, water barrier, and optical properties were compared between the different films, and the results showed that the composite film (HML@CMCS/PVA) had better tensile properties, lower water content (35%), and lower water solubility (28%), while water barrier properties were significantly improved. HML@CMCS/PVA also had better light transmission than commercial films (opacity at 600 nm of 1.92). Finally, the composite film was selected to study antifungal properties, soil degradability, and biosafety. The results showed that it exhibited significant inhibitory activity against Fusarium oxysporum and could effectively control soybean root rot, while degradation reached 58% after 7 d of soil burial, and the mortality of earthworms relative to the microplastics produced by the film within 7 d (23.33%) was much lower than that of the commercial film, demonstrating its excellent biosafety. This study provides a new approach for the on-farm management of soybean root rot and the reduction in soil microplastic pollution.
Use of a Composed Simulator by Veterinarian Non-Experts in Minimally Invasive Surgery for Training and Acquisition of Surgical Skills for Laparoscopic Ovariectomy in Dogs
Authors: Andrade-Espinoza Belén , Oviedo-Peñata Carlos , Maldonado-Estrada Juan G.
Published: August 2023

This study aims to assess the acquisition of surgical skills for laparoscopic ovariectomy (LOE) in dogs by veterinary surgeons with no experience in minimally invasive surgery using the CALMA Veterinary Lap-trainer simulator (CVLTS) in an experimental and analytical setting. Veterinary surgeons with no experience in minimally invasive surgery (MIS) (experimental, n = 5), and MIS experts (experts, n = 3) were evaluated. Experimental and expert group participants watched an instructional video (initial time) before practicing the LOE on uterine tissues and ovaries freshly reconstituted after elective ovariohysterectomy (initial time evaluation). Then, the experimental group practiced five training sessions on the composite simulator with permanent feedback and then performed the LOE again (final time evaluation). Surgical performances in initial and final evaluations were video recorded and further evaluated by three external MIS experts using Global objective assessment of laparoscopic skills (GOALS) and LOE-specific rating scales (SRSs) in a double-blinded schedule. In addition, a hands movement assessment system (HMAS) attached to the back of the hands was used to quantitatively measure completion time, angularity, and movement smoothness. Data were analyzed with one-factor ANOVA and Tukey’s contrast test. No statistically significant differences were found between the novice group’s performance after training and the expert group’s performance according to the GOALS (p < 0.01) and SRS (p < 0.05) scores. Moreover, the novices had significantly improved time, number of movements, and angularity in the final time compared with the initial time (p < 0.05), with no significant differences compared to the expert group (p > 0.05). LOE training using a composed simulator resulted in significantly improved laparoscopic skills and time, number, and angularity of movements data, providing evidence of the usefulness and reliability of CVLTS in training LOE.
Microbiological Profile of Fracture Related Infection at a UK Major Trauma Centre
Authors: Patel Kavi H. , Gill Laura I. , Tissingh Elizabeth K. , Galanis Athanasios , Hadjihannas Ioannis , Iliadis Alexis D. , Heidari Nima , Cherian Benny , Rosmarin Caryn , Vris Alexandros
Published: August 2023

Fracture Related Infection (FRI) represents one of the biggest challenges for Trauma and Orthopaedic surgery. A better understanding of the microbiological profile should assist with decision-making and optimising outcomes. Our primary aim was to report on the microbiological profile of FRI cases treated over a six-year period at one of Europe’s busiest trauma centres. Secondarily, we sought to correlate our findings with existing anti-microbiological protocols and report on diagnostic techniques employed in our practice. All adult cases of FRI treated in our institution between 2016 and 2021 were identified, retrospectively. We recorded patient demographics, diagnostic strategies, causative organisms and antibiotic susceptibilities. There were 330 infection episodes in 294 patients. A total of 463 potentially pathogenic organisms (78 different species) were identified from cultures, of which 57.2% were gram-positive and 39.7% gram-negative. Polymicrobial cultures were found in 33.6% of cases and no causative organism was found in 17.5%. The most prevalent organisms were Staphylococcus aureus (24.4%), coagulase-negative Staphylococci (14%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (8.2%), Enterobacter species (7.8%) and Escherichia coli (6.9%). Resistant gram-positive organisms (methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus or vancomycin-resistant Enterococci) were implicated in 3.3% of infection episodes and resistant gram-negatives (extended-spectrum beta-lactamase, ampC or carbapenemase-producing bacteria) in 13.6%. The organisms cultured in 96.3% of infection episodes would have been covered by our empirical systemic antibiotic choice of teicoplanin and meropenem. To our knowledge, this is the largest reported single-centre cohort of FRIs from a major trauma centre. Our results demonstrate patterns in microbiological profiles that should serve to inform the decision-making process regarding antibiotic choices for both prophylaxis and treatment.
Prevalence of Non-Toxigenic Clostridioides difficile in Diarrhoea Patients and Their Clinical Characteristics
Authors: Jeon Cheon-Hoo , Kim Si-Ho , Wi Yu Mi
Published: August 2023

Non-toxigenic Clostridioides difficile (NTCD) has been shown to decrease the risk of recurrent C. difficile infection (CDI) in patients following metronidazole or vancomycin treatment for CDI. Limited data on the prevalence of NTCD strains in symptomatic patients and their clinical characteristics are available. We conducted this study to investigate the prevalence of NTCD in diarrhoea patients and their clinical characteristics. Between July 2017 and June 2018, unduplicated stool specimens were collected from patients with diarrhoea. The characteristics and episodes of C. difficile infection in patients with NTCD and toxigenic strains were compared. Among the 1182 stool specimens collected, 236 (18.5%) were identified as growing C. difficile, and 19.5% of the identified isolates were found to be NTCD. Multivariate analysis showed that community-onset diarrhoea (OR = 4.13, 95% CI 1.07–15.97; p = 0.040), underlying diabetes (OR = 3.64, 95% CI 1.46–9.25; p = 0.006), previous use of glycopeptides (OR = 4.75, 95% CI 1.37–16.42; p = 0.014), and the lack of use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) (OR = 3.57, 95% CI 1.39–9.09; p = 0.009) were independently associated with the NTCD group. Although there was no statistical significance, the number of CDI episodes occurring after 90 days tended to be lower in the NTCD group (2.2%) than in the toxigenic group (11.2%). A considerable portion of the C. difficile strains isolated from patients with diarrhoea showed NTCD. Further, more extensive studies are needed to clearly define the protective effects of NTCD strains in patients with diarrhoea.
Magnetic Nanoparticles as Mediators for Magnetic Hyperthermia Therapy Applications: A Status Review
Authors: Beković Miloš , Ban Irena , Drofenik Miha , Stergar Janja
Published: August 2023

This concise review delves into the realm of superparamagnetic nanoparticles, specifically focusing on Fe2O3, Mg1+xFe2−2xTixO4, Ni1−xCux, and CrxNi1−x, along with their synthesis methods and applications in magnetic hyperthermia. Remarkable advancements have been made in controlling the size and shape of these nanoparticles, achieved through various synthesis techniques such as coprecipitation, mechanical milling, microemulsion, and sol–gel synthesis. Through this review, our objective is to present the outcomes of diverse synthesis methods, the surface treatment of superparamagnetic nanoparticles, their magnetic properties, and Curie temperature, and elucidate their impact on heating efficiency when subjected to high-frequency magnetic fields.
Finite-Time Adaptive Dynamic Surface Asymptotic Tracking Control of Uncertain Multi-Agent Systems with Unknown Control Gains
Authors: Deng Xiongfeng , An Chaocheng
Published: August 2023

In this work, the finite-time asymptotic tracking control problem of uncertain multi-agent systems with unknown control gains is studied. For the unknown control gain of each subsystem in multi-agent systems, we consider using the Nussbaum gain function techniques to handle them. To deal with the unknown uncertain nonlinear dynamics, the radial basis function neural network is introduced in each step of the dynamic surface control design. In addition, a nonlinear compensating term with the estimation of an unknown bounded parameter is designed to avoid repeated differentiation of each virtual control law. Then, based on the neural network control method, dynamic surface control technique, and finite-time control theory, an adaptive neural network finite-time dynamic surface control law is finally designed. Using stability analysis, it is proven that the presented adaptive control law can guarantee all signals of the closed-loop system semi-global practical finite-time stable, and the tracking error of each follower agent can converge to a small neighborhood of zero in finite time. Finally, a class of single-link robot systems is provided to illustrate the effectiveness of the designed control law.
Mimicking Human Verification Behavior for News Media Credibility Evaluation
Authors: Fan Weijian , Wang Yongbin , Hu Hongbin
Published: August 2023

The widespread popularity of digital technology has enabled the rapid dissemination of news. However, it has also led to the emergence of “fake news” and the development of a media ecosystem with serious prejudices. If early warnings about the source of fake news are received, this provides better outcomes in preventing its spread. Therefore, the issue of understanding and evaluating the credibility of media has received increasing attention. This work proposes a model of evaluating news media credibility called MiBeMC, which mimics the structure of human verification behavior in networks. Specifically, we first construct an intramodule information feature extractor to simulate the semantic analysis behavior of human information reading. Then, we design a similarity module to mimic the process of obtaining additional information. We also construct an aggregation module. This simulates human verification of correlated content. Finally, we apply regularized adversarial training strategy to train the MiBeMC model. The ablation study results demonstrate the effectiveness of MiBeMC. For the CLEF-task4 development and test dataset, the performance of the MiBeMC over state-of-the-art baseline methods is evaluated and found to be superior.
Water Supply Systems for Settlements with Arsenic-Contaminated Groundwater—Making the Right Choice
Authors: Agbaba Jasmina , Watson Malcolm , Kragulj Isakovski Marijana , Stankov Uglješa , Dalmacija Božo , Tubić Aleksandra
Published: August 2023

The environmentally and economically sustainable provision of safe drinking water remains one of the most significant public health challenges facing society. It is particularly difficult in small municipalities that lack the human and financial resources to maintain complex and/or expensive water treatment systems, especially in regions where the water is naturally contaminated with toxic substances such as arsenic. This paper analyses two municipalities (Kanjiža and Senta) in northern Serbia with groundwater arsenic concentrations significantly higher than the 10 µg/L maximum allowable concentration. Two different water supply approaches are compared: (1) local supply, where each settlement has their own treatment plant using existing sources; (2) creation of a centralised network, which connects several settlements together with better quality water sources. The analysis considers techno-economical aspects and the quantity and quality of available water, as well as the yields investment and exploitation cost projections for both approaches. The results demonstrate that for small municipalities, a holistic approach to decision making is necessary to find the best solutions for drinking water supply, which in the case of the two municipalities studied is connection to a centralised system supplied from better quality water sources and the creation of connections beyond municipal administrative boundaries.
An Investigation into the Friction of Cold-Rolled Low-Carbon DC06 Steel Sheets in Sheet Metal Forming Using Radial Basis Function Neural Networks
Authors: Trzepieciński Tomasz , Szwajka Krzysztof , Szewczyk Marek
Published: August 2023

This article presents the friction test results for cold-rolled low-carbon DC06 steel sheets, which are commonly processed into finished products using sheet metal forming methods. A strip drawing test with flat dies was used in the experimental tests. The strip-drawing test is used to model the friction phenomena in the flange area of the drawpiece. The tests were carried out using a tester that enabled lubrication with a pressurised lubricant. The friction tests were carried out at different nominal pressures, oil pressures, and friction conditions (dry friction and oil lubrication). Oils destined for deep-drawing operations were used as lubricants. Neural networks with radial base functions (RBFs) were used to explore the influence of individual friction parameters on the value of the coefficient of friction (COF). Under lubrication with both oils considered, the value of the COF increased with decreasing oil pressure. This confirms the correctness of the concept of the device for reducing friction in the flange area of the drawpiece. The developed concept of pressurised lubrication is most effective at relatively small nominal pressures of 2–4 MPa. This range of nominal pressures corresponds to the actual nip pressures when forming deep-drawing steel sheets. Under conditions of dry friction, the values obtained for the COF rise above 0.3, while under lubrication conditions, even without pressure-assisted lubrication, the COF does not exceed 0.2. As the nominal pressure increases, the effectiveness of the lubrication exponentially decreases. It was found that the Sq parameter carries the most information regarding the value of the COF. The RBF neural network with nine neurons in the hidden layer (RBF-8-9-1) and containing the Sq parameter as the input was characterised by an R2 of 0.989 and an error of 0.000292 for the testing set.
Experimental and OLGA Modeling Investigation for Slugging in Underwater Compressed Gas Energy Storage Systems
Authors: Liang Chengyu , Xiong Wei , Wang Hu , Wang Zhiwen
Published: August 2023

Underwater compressed gas energy storage (UW-CGES) holds significant promise as a nascent and viable energy storage solution for a diverse range of coastal and offshore facilities. However, liquid accumulation in underwater gas pipelines poses a significant challenge, as it can lead to pipeline blockages and energy transmission interruptions and adversely impact pipeline operation. In this paper, experimental and Oil and Gas Assays (OLGA) simulation studies have been conducted on the formation process of slug flow in pipelines. Firstly, experiments are conducted to capture high-speed camera images of slug flow under various liquid accumulation volumes and inclination angles. Subsequently, an OLGA model is developed to verify the experimentally observed flow regime, pressure, and slugging speed. Therefore, the flow regime verification results exhibit substantial consistency, and pressure variations display uniform trends, with an average slugging velocity error of 6.42%. The results indicate that the formation of slug flow involves three distinct stages: slug flow growth, ejection, and backflow. By analyzing slug flow, it can gain insights into the relationship between pressure and slug flow formation, exposing the sensitivity of this phenomenon to pressure fluctuations. These results further enhance recognition of the operational status of UW-CGES pipelines and provide support for safe operation.
Evacuation Simulation under Threat of Wildfire—An Overview of Research, Development, and Knowledge Gaps
Authors: Beyki Shahab Mohammad , Santiago Aldina , Laím Luís , Craveiro Hélder D.
Published: August 2023

Wildfires have become a common incident over the past decades, and they have been threatening people’s lives and assets. In the communities close to wildlands or wildland–urban interfaces (WUI), these threats become increasingly serious, and in case of wildfires, people are advised or often have to evacuate the area to save their lives. In order to have a safe and effective evacuation, data on people’s behavior and decisions during wildfires, evacuation modeling, and traffic simulations are required. This paper reviews past and recent research on evacuation, human behavior in wildfires, evacuation modeling, and traffic simulation. Similar research on evacuation in other situations is also reviewed, and the applicability of the models and simulations on wildfires is discussed. Different stages for an evacuation modeling design are assessed, and the gaps and challenges in obtaining an effective evacuation model are presented.
Phytoremediation Properties of Sweet Potato for Soils Contaminated by Heavy Metals in South Kazakhstan
Authors: Toishimanov Maxat , Abilda Zhanar , Daurov Dias , Daurova Ainash , Zhapar Kuanysh , Sapakhova Zagipa , Kanat Rakhim , Stamgaliyeva Zukhra , Zhambakin Kabyl , Shamekova Malika
Published: August 2023

Industrial waste in the form of abandoned mine tailings from a former lead plant in South Kazakhstan amounts to about 2 million tons, and this has led to environmental pollution with heavy metals (HMs) in Shymkent city. The concentrations of Pb, Zn, and Cd in the mine tailings were 1354.50, 262.90, and 61.08 mg/kg, respectively. The contamination of the adjacent soils with Pb, Zn, and Cd ranged from 7.76 to 551.49, from 8.25 to 245.74, and from 5.40 to 19.23 mg/kg, respectively. In this study, the phytoremediation properties of sweet potato on soils contaminated with HMs adjacent to mine tailings were investigated. The phytoremediation efficiency of sweet potato was assessed in terms of its capacity to biotransfer and bioaccumulate HMs. The concentrations of Pb, Zn, and Cd in sweet potato in the experimental fields were 28.70–45.10, 70.0–94.20, and 1.19–1.80 mg/kg, respectively. It was determined that the pollution class of the studied soils according to Igeo was high pollution (5.28–8.80), and the potential risk of HM accumulation according to the ecological risk index proposed by Hakanson was moderate pollution.
Runtime Construction of Large-Scale Spiking Neuronal Network Models on GPU Devices
Authors: Golosio Bruno , Villamar Jose , Tiddia Gianmarco , Pastorelli Elena , Stapmanns Jonas , Fanti Viviana , Paolucci Pier Stanislao , Morrison Abigail , Senk Johanna
Published: August 2023

Simulation speed matters for neuroscientific research: this includes not only how quickly the simulated model time of a large-scale spiking neuronal network progresses but also how long it takes to instantiate the network model in computer memory. On the hardware side, acceleration via highly parallel GPUs is being increasingly utilized. On the software side, code generation approaches ensure highly optimized code at the expense of repeated code regeneration and recompilation after modifications to the network model. Aiming for a greater flexibility with respect to iterative model changes, here we propose a new method for creating network connections interactively, dynamically, and directly in GPU memory through a set of commonly used high-level connection rules. We validate the simulation performance with both consumer and data center GPUs on two neuroscientifically relevant models: a cortical microcircuit of about 77,000 leaky-integrate-and-fire neuron models and 300 million static synapses, and a two-population network recurrently connected using a variety of connection rules. With our proposed ad hoc network instantiation, both network construction and simulation times are comparable or shorter than those obtained with other state-of-the-art simulation technologies while still meeting the flexibility demands of explorative network modeling.
Deregulations of RNA Pol II Subunits in Cancer
Authors: Muste Sadurni Martina , Saponaro Marco
Published: August 2023

Deregulated transcription is a well-known characteristic of cancer cells, with differentially expressed genes being a common feature of several cancers. Often, deregulated transcription is a consequence of alterations in transcription factors (TFs), which play a crucial role in gene expression and can act as tumour suppressors or proto-oncogenes. In eukaryotic organisms, transcription is carried out by three distinct RNA polymerase complexes: Pol I, Pol II, and Pol III. Pol II, specifically, is responsible for transcribing messenger RNA (mRNA), the protein coding part of the genome, as well as long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs). While there is considerable research on the impact of specific deregulated transcription factors in cancer development, there is a lack of studies focusing on defects within the RNA polymerase complexes and their subunits. This review aims to shed light in particular on the Pol II complex and highlight the deregulation of its subunits that have a significant impact on tumour development, prognosis, and survival. By providing a comprehensive overview of our current understanding of Pol II subunits in cancer, this review emphasizes the importance of further research in this area. It suggests that exploring these subunits’ deregulations could lead to the identification of valuable biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets, making it a topic of collective interest.
Evaluating Short-Term and Long-Term Risks Associated with Renal Artery Stenosis Position and Severity: A Hemodynamic Study
Authors: Zhao Yawei , Shi Yike , Jin Yusheng , Cao Yifan , Song Hui , Chen Lingfeng , Li Fen , Li Xiaona , Chen Weiyi
Published: August 2023

Background: Moderate renal artery stenosis (50–70%) may lead to uncontrolled hypertension and eventually cause irreversible damage to renal function. However, the clinical criteria for interventional treatment are still ambiguous in this condition. This study investigated the impact of the position and degree of renal artery stenosis on hemodynamics near the renal artery to assess the short-term and long-term risks associated with this disease. Methods: Calculation models with different degrees of stenosis (50%, 60%, and 70%) located at different positions in the right renal artery were established based on the computed tomography angiography (CTA) of a personalized case. And computational fluid dynamics (CFD) was used to analyze hemodynamic surroundings near the renal artery. Results: As the degree of stenosis increases and the stenosis position is far away from the aorta, there is a decrease in renal perfusion. An analysis of the wall shear stress (WSS)-related parameters indicated areas near the renal artery (downstream of the stenosis and the entrance of the right renal artery) with potential long-term risks of thrombosis and inflammation. Conclusion: The position and degree of stenosis play a significant role in judging short-term risks associated with renal perfusion. Moreover, clinicians should consider not only short-term risks but also independent long-term risk factors, such as certain regions of 50% stenosis with adequate renal perfusion may necessitate prompt intervention.
Subaerial Decomposition of Small-Sized Remains in The Netherlands: Important Findings Regarding the PMI of a Four-Year Taphonomic Study
Authors: Sluis Iris , Duijst Wilma , Krap Tristan
Published: August 2023

Studying post-mortem changes based on signs of decomposition (e.g., using scoring models) is one of the methods used in scientific studies to relate observable changes to the post-mortem interval (PMI). The majority of the studies on cadaver decomposition are based on large cadavers. There is limited literature on the decomposition pattern and rate of small cadavers, even though it is at least as important to be able to estimate the PMI for infants and subadults. Therefore, it is crucial to acquire knowledge of the decomposition process of child-sized remains. To fill this knowledge gap, a season-based subaerial outdoor decomposition study was conducted with small pig cadavers at the Forensic Anthropological Outdoor Research Facility located in Den Ham, The Netherlands, over a period of 4 years. Den Ham is located in the eastern part of the Netherlands, close to the German border, and has a temperate maritime climate, with a Cfb classification according to the Köppen–Geiger system. Salient findings were acquired during the decomposition study, specifically regarding a deviating decomposition rate during winter and the subsequent spring, reproducibility, the effect of body weight, post-mortem movement, the effect of heavy rainfall on insect activity, delayed bloating, the interaction of different insect species, and invertebrate activity. This article includes a systemic review of the results obtained during this four-year decomposition study and discusses the impact of the findings on the estimation of the PMI.
Maternal Obesity Programs the Premature Aging of Rat Offspring Liver Mitochondrial Electron Transport Chain Genes in a Sex-Dependent Manner
Authors: Lomas-Soria Consuelo , Rodríguez-González Guadalupe L. , Ibáñez Carlos A. , Reyes-Castro Luis A. , Nathanielsz Peter W. , Zambrano Elena
Published: August 2023

We investigated whether maternal obesity affects the hepatic mitochondrial electron transport chain (ETC), sirtuins, and antioxidant enzymes in young (110 postnatal days (PND)) and old (650PND) male and female offspring in a sex- and age-related manner. Female Wistar rats ate a control (C) or high-fat (MO) diet from weaning, through pregnancy and lactation. After weaning, the offspring ate the C diet and were euthanized at 110 and 650PND. The livers were collected for RNA-seq and immunohistochemistry. Male offspring livers had more differentially expressed genes (DEGs) down-regulated by both MO and natural aging than females. C-650PND vs. C-110PND and MO-110PND vs. C-110PND comparisons revealed 1477 DEGs in common for males (premature aging by MO) and 35 DEGs for females. Analysis to identify KEGG pathways enriched from genes in common showed changes in 511 and 3 KEGG pathways in the male and female livers, respectively. Mitochondrial function pathways showed ETC-related gene down-regulation. All ETC complexes, sirtuin2, sirtuin3, sod-1, and catalase, exhibited gene down-regulation and decreased protein expression at young and old ages in MO males vs. C males; meanwhile, MO females down-regulated only at 650PND. Conclusions: MO accelerates the age-associated down-regulation of ETC pathway gene expression in male offspring livers, thereby causing sex-dependent oxidative stress, premature aging, and metabolic dysfunction.
A Novel Gliotransmitter, L-β-Aminoisobutyric Acid, Contributes to Pathophysiology of Clinical Efficacies and Adverse Reactions of Clozapine
Authors: Fukuyama Kouji , Motomura Eishi , Okada Motohiro
Published: August 2023

Clozapine is listed as one of the most effective antipsychotics and has been approved for treating treatment-resistant schizophrenia (TRS); however, several type A and B adverse reactions, including weight gain, metabolic complications, cardiotoxicity, convulsions, and discontinuation syndromes, exist. The critical mechanisms of clinical efficacy for schizophrenia, TRS, and adverse reactions of clozapine have not been elucidated. Recently, the GABA isomer L-β-aminoisobutyric acid (L-BAIBA), a protective myokine in the peripheral organs, was identified as a candidate novel transmission modulator in the central nervous system (CNS). L-BAIBA activates adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) signalling in both the peripheral organs and CNS. Activated AMPK signalling in peripheral organs is an established major target for treating insulin-resistant diabetes, whereas activated AMPK signalling in the hypothalamus contributes to the pathophysiology of weight gain and metabolic disturbances. Clozapine increases L-BAIBA synthesis in the hypothalamus. In addition, the various functions of L-BAIBA in the CNS have recently been elucidated, including as an activator of GABA-B and group-III metabotropic glutamate (III-mGlu) receptors. Considering the expressions of GABA-B and III-mGlu receptors (localised in the presynaptic regions), the activation of GABA-B and III-mGlu receptors can explain the distinct therapeutic advantages of clozapine in schizophrenia or TRS associated with N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor disturbance compared with other atypical antipsychotics via the inhibition of the persistent tonic hyperactivation of thalamocortical glutamatergic transmission in the prefrontal cortex. L-BAIBA has also been identified as a gliotransmitter, and a detailed exploration of the function of L-BAIBA in tripartite synaptic transmission can further elucidate the pathophysiology of effectiveness for treating TRS and/or specific adverse reactions of clozapine.
Metformin Prevents NDEA-Induced Memory Impairments Associated with Attenuating Beta-Amyloid, Tumor Necrosis Factor-Alpha, and Interleukin-6 Levels in the Hippocampus of Rats
Authors: Ponce-Lopez Teresa , González Álvarez Tostado José Antonio , Dias Fernando , Montiel Maltez Keren Happuck
Published: August 2023

N-nitrosodiethylamine (NDEA) is a potential carcinogen known to cause liver tumors and chronic inflammation, diabetes, cognitive problems, and signs like Alzheimer’s disease (AD) in animals. This compound is classified as probably carcinogenic to humans. Usual sources of exposure include food, beer, tobacco, personal care products, water, and medications. AD is characterized by cognitive decline, amyloid-β (Aβ) deposit, tau hyperphosphorylation, and cell loss. This is accompanied by neuroinflammation, which involves release of microglial cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and interleukin 1β (IL-1β), by nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) upregulation; each are linked to AD progression. Weak PI3K/Akt insulin-signaling inhibits IRS-1 phosphorylation, activates GSK3β and promotes tau hyperphosphorylation. Metformin, an antihyperglycemic agent, has potent anti-inflammatory efficacy. It reduces proinflammatory cytokines such as IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α via NF-κB inhibition. Metformin also reduces reactive oxidative species (ROS) and modulates cognitive disorders reported due to brain insulin resistance links. Our study examined how NDEA affects spatial memory in Wistar rats. We found that all NDEA doses tested impaired memory. The 80 µg/kg dose of NDEA increased levels of Aβ1-42, TNF-α, and IL-6 in the hippocampus, which correlated with memory loss. Nonetheless, treatment with 100 mg/kg of metformin attenuated the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and Aβ1-42, and enhanced memory. It suggests that metformin may protect against NDEA-triggered memory issues and brain inflammation.