bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intrahepatic Mass-Forming Cholangiocarcinoma: Is There Additional Prognostic Value in Using Gd-EOB Enhanced MRI?
Authors: Halskov Sebastian , Krenzien Felix , Segger Laura , Geisel Dominik , Hamm Bernd , Pelzer Uwe , Ihlow Jana , Schöning Wenzel , Auer Timo Alexander , Fehrenbach Uli
Published: March 2024

Objective: To investigate the prognostic value of enhancement patterns of intrahepatic mass-forming cholangiocarcinomas (IMCCs) during the hepatobiliary phase (HBP) in gadoxetic acid (Gd-EOB)-enhanced MRI. Methods: We retrospectively identified 66 consecutive patients with histopathologically proven IMCCs (reference standard: resection) and preoperative Gd-EOB-enhanced MRI. Gd-EOB retention area was subjectively rated based on areas of intermediate signal intensity. Lesions were classified as either hypointense (0–25% retention area) or significantly-retaining (>25% retention area). Clinical, radiological, and prognostic features were compared between these groups. The primary endpoints were recurrence-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) after primary surgical resection. Results: 73% (48/66) of lesions were rated as hypointense and 29% (19/66) as significantly-retaining. While the hypointense subgroup more frequently featured local and distant intrahepatic metastases (p = 0.039 and p = 0.022) and an infiltrative growth pattern (p = 0.005), RFS, OS, and clinical features did not differ significantly with estimated Gd-EOB retention area or quantitatively measured HBP enhancement ratios. Lymph node metastasis was an independent predictor of poor RFS (p = 0.001). Conclusions: Gd-EOB-enhanced MRI revealed two subtypes of IMCC in the HBP: hypointense and signal-retaining. The hypointense subtype is associated with more frequent intrahepatic metastases and an infiltrative growth pattern, indicating potential tumor aggressiveness. However, this did not result in a significant difference in survival after the primary resection of IMCC.
Cost of Hospitalization Associated with Inpatient Goals-of-Care Program Implementation at a Comprehensive Cancer Center: A Propensity Score Analysis
Authors: Hui David , Huang Yu-Ting , Andersen Clark , Cassel Brian , Nortje Nico , George Marina , Bruera Eduardo
Published: March 2024

The impact of goals-of-care programs on acute hospitalization costs is unclear. We compared the hospitalization cost in an 8-month period before implementation of a multimodal interdisciplinary goals-of-care program (1 May 2019 to 31 December 2019) to an 8-month period after program implementation (1 May 2020 to 31 December 2020). Propensity score weighting was used to adjust for differences in potential covariates. The primary outcome was total direct cost during the hospital stay for each index hospitalization. This analysis included 6977 patients in 2019 and 5964 patients in 2020. The total direct cost decreased by 3% in 2020 but was not statistically significant (ratio 0.97, 95% CI 0.92, 1.03). Under individual categories, there was a significant decrease in medical oncology (ratio 0.58, 95% CI 0.50, 0.68) and pharmacy costs (ratio 0.86, 95% CI 0.79, 0.96), and an increase in room and board (ratio 1.06, 95% CI 1.01, 1.10). In subgroup analysis, ICU patients had a significant reduction in total direct cost after program implementation (ratio 0.83, 95% CI 0.72, 0.94). After accounting for the length of ICU admission, we found that the total direct cost per hospital day was no longer different between 2019 and 2020 (ratio 0.986, 95% CI 0.92, 1.05), suggesting that shorter ICU admissions likely explained much of the observed cost savings. This study provides real-world data on how “in-the-moment” GOC conversations may contribute to reduced hospitalization costs among ICU patients.
KRASG12C Inhibitor as a Treatment Option for Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer with Comorbid Interstitial Pneumonia
Authors: Fujimoto Kazushi , Ikeda Satoshi , Tabata Erina , Kaneko Taichi , Sagawa Shinobu , Yamada Chieri , Kumagai Kosumi , Fukushima Takashi , Haga Sanshiro , Watanabe Masayuki , Muraoka Tatsuya , Sekine Akimasa , Baba Tomohisa , Ogura Takashi
Published: March 2024

Non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with comorbid interstitial pneumonia (IP) is a population with limited treatment options and a poor prognosis. Patients with comorbid IP are at high risk of developing fatal drug-induced pneumonitis, and data on the safety and efficacy of molecularly targeted therapies are lacking. KRAS mutations have been frequently detected in patients with NSCLC with comorbid IP. However, the low detection rate of common driver gene mutations, such as epidermal growth factor receptor and anaplastic lymphoma kinase, in patients with comorbid IP frequently results in inadequate screening for driver mutations, and KRAS mutations may be overlooked. Recently, sotorasib and adagrasib were approved as treatment options for advanced NSCLC with KRASG12C mutations. Although patients with comorbid IP were not excluded from clinical trials of these KRASG12C inhibitors, the incidence of drug-induced pneumonitis was low. Therefore, KRASG12C inhibitors may be a safe and effective treatment option for NSCLC with comorbid IP. This review article discusses the promise and prospects of molecular-targeted therapies, especially KRASG12C inhibitors, for NSCLC with comorbid IP, along with our own clinical experience.
An OX-Tra’Ordinary Tale: The Role of OX40 and OX40L in Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Sadrolashrafi Kaviyon , Guo Lily , Kikuchi Robin , Hao Audrey , Yamamoto Rebecca K. , Tolson Hannah C. , Bilimoria Sara N. , Yee Danielle K. , Armstrong April W.
Published: March 2024

The transmembrane glycoprotein OX40 receptor (OX40) and its ligand, OX40L, are instrumental modulators of the adaptive immune response in humans. OX40 functions as a costimulatory molecule that promotes T cell activation, differentiation, and survival through ligation with OX40L. T cells play an integral role in the pathogenesis of several inflammatory skin conditions, including atopic dermatitis (AD). In particular, T helper 2 (TH2) cells strongly contribute to AD pathogenesis via the production of cytokines associated with type 2 inflammation (e.g., IL-4, IL-5, IL-13, and IL-31) that lead to skin barrier dysfunction and pruritus. The OX40-OX40L interaction also promotes the activation and proliferation of other T helper cell populations (e.g., TH1, TH22, and TH17), and AD patients have demonstrated higher levels of OX40 expression on peripheral blood mononuclear cells than healthy controls. As such, the OX40-OX40L pathway is a potential target for AD treatment. Novel therapies targeting the OX40 pathway are currently in development, several of which have demonstrated promising safety and efficacy results in patients with moderate-to-severe AD. Herein, we review the function of OX40 and the OX40-OX40L signaling pathway, their role in AD pathogenesis, and emerging therapies targeting OX40-OX40L that may offer insights into the future of AD management.
Ground Cover Vegetation in Differently Managed Hemiboreal Norway Spruce Stands: Plantation vs. Natural Regeneration
Authors: Matisone Ilze , Katrevičs Juris , Jansone Diāna , Jaunslaviete Ieva , Matisons Roberts , Liepiņa Agnese Anta , Jansons Āris
Published: March 2024

Forest plantations, which have a simplified structure and composition, are becoming more frequent, raising concerns regarding their contribution to biological diversity in highly managed landscapes. The biological value of a stand has been related to stand age, although stand properties, which are often intercorrelated with it, yet are manageable, might be of primary importance. The relationships between stand properties (age, structure and composition) and ground cover vegetation, as a proxy for biological value, were assessed in Norway spruce stands with contrasting land use history (low-density plantations on former agricultural land, unmanaged and old-growth stands) in Latvia. The ground flora differed according to land use history of the stands. The principal gradients of ground cover vegetation were related to the degree of deciduous admixture in the tree stand, stand vertical heterogeneity (multi-layer; density and height of the understorey), light, age and site fertility. However, the plantations were more species-rich and diverse, appearing as promising in terms of biological diversity in intensively managed sites (especially periurban forests). The observed relationships between ground cover vegetation and stand characteristics suggest that diversification of the stand structures in plantations might reduce the recovery time of ground cover vegetation, contributing to the ecosystem services provided under intensifying management and disturbances.
Long COVID: Long-Term Impact of SARS-CoV2
Authors: Makhluf Huda , Madany Henry , Kim Kenneth
Published: March 2024

Four years post-pandemic, SARS-CoV-2 continues to affect many lives across the globe. An estimated 65 million people suffer from long COVID, a term used to encapsulate the post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infections that affect multiple organ systems. Known symptoms include chronic fatigue syndrome, brain fog, cardiovascular issues, autoimmunity, dysautonomia, and clotting due to inflammation. Herein, we review long COVID symptoms, the proposed theories behind the pathology, diagnostics, treatments, and the clinical trials underway to explore treatments for viral persistence, autonomic and cognitive dysfunctions, sleep disturbances, fatigue, and exercise intolerance.
Development of Clinical Radiomics-Based Models to Predict Survival Outcome in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma: A Multicenter Retrospective Study
Authors: Mokhtari Ayoub , Casale Roberto , Salahuddin Zohaib , Paquier Zelda , Guiot Thomas , Woodruff Henry C. , Lambin Philippe , Van Laethem Jean-Luc , Hendlisz Alain , Bali Maria Antonietta
Published: March 2024

Purpose. This multicenter retrospective study aims to identify reliable clinical and radiomic features to build machine learning models that predict progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) patients. Methods. Between 2010 and 2020 pre-treatment contrast-enhanced CT scans of 287 pathology-confirmed PDAC patients from two sites of the Hopital Universitaire de Bruxelles (HUB) and from 47 hospitals within the HUB network were retrospectively analysed. Demographic, clinical, and survival data were also collected. Gross tumour volume (GTV) and non-tumoral pancreas (RPV) were semi-manually segmented and radiomics features were extracted. Patients from two HUB sites comprised the training dataset, while those from the remaining 47 hospitals of the HUB network constituted the testing dataset. A three-step method was used for feature selection. Based on the GradientBoostingSurvivalAnalysis classifier, different machine learning models were trained and tested to predict OS and PFS. Model performances were assessed using the C-index and Kaplan–Meier curves. SHAP analysis was applied to allow for post hoc interpretability. Results. A total of 107 radiomics features were extracted from each of the GTV and RPV. Fourteen subgroups of features were selected: clinical, GTV, RPV, clinical & GTV, clinical & GTV & RPV, GTV-volume and RPV-volume both for OS and PFS. Subsequently, 14 Gradient Boosting Survival Analysis models were trained and tested. In the testing dataset, the clinical & GTV model demonstrated the highest performance for OS (C-index: 0.72) among all other models, while for PFS, the clinical model exhibited a superior performance (C-index: 0.70). Conclusions. An integrated approach, combining clinical and radiomics features, excels in predicting OS, whereas clinical features demonstrate strong performance in PFS prediction.
Bilateral Maxillary Duplication in Tessier No. 7 Cleft: An Uncommon Congenital Deformity with a Challenging Radiological Diagnosis
Authors: Antic Svetlana , Bracanovic Djurdja , Janovic Aleksa , Krstic Goran , Plavsic Djordje , Markovic Vasiljkovic Biljana
Published: March 2024

Tessier No. 7 cleft, known as lateral facial cleft, is a rare and understudied entity with an incidence of 1/80,000–1/300,000 live births. Besides perioral tissue abnormalities manifesting as macrostomia, Tessier 7 cleft also involves anomalies of the underlying bony structures. It can appear as part of a syndrome, such as Treacher-Collins syndrome or Goldenhar/Orbito-Auriculo-Vestibular Spectrum, or as an isolated form (unilateral or bilateral) with variable expressions. Bilateral maxillary duplication in Tessier 7 cleft is considered extremely rare, accounting for only two previously presented cases. Given that the cases presented in the literature mainly focus on clinical appearance and surgical treatment, without providing sufficient imaging, we aim to present key radiological features of Tessier 7 cleft in terms of evaluating the involved structures, which is essential for the therapeutic approach and final outcome. A 17-year-old male with incompetent lips and orthodontic abnormalities was referred to our Radiology Department for orthopantomography (OPG) and CT examinations. Hetero-anamnestic data revealed a history of surgical treatment of the commissural cleft conducted 2 months after the birth to enable feeding. Intraoral examination showed a maxillary cleft and supernumerary teeth. Since the given clinical presentation was inconclusive, radiological diagnostics took precedence in elucidating this complex entity.
Development of a Non-Invasive Machine-Learned Point-of-Care Rule-Out Test for Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Burton Timothy , Fathieh Farhad , Nemati Navid , Gillins Horace R. , Shadforth Ian P. , Ramchandani Shyam , Bridges Charles R.
Published: March 2024

The current standard of care for coronary artery disease (CAD) requires an intake of radioactive or contrast enhancement dyes, radiation exposure, and stress and may take days to weeks for referral to gold-standard cardiac catheterization. The CAD diagnostic pathway would greatly benefit from a test to assess for CAD that enables the physician to rule it out at the point of care, thereby enabling the exploration of other diagnoses more rapidly. We sought to develop a test using machine learning to assess for CAD with a rule-out profile, using an easy-to-acquire signal (without stress/radiation) at the point of care. Given the historic disparate outcomes between sexes and urban/rural geographies in cardiology, we targeted equal performance across sexes in a geographically accessible test. Noninvasive photoplethysmogram and orthogonal voltage gradient signals were simultaneously acquired in a representative clinical population of subjects before invasive catheterization for those with CAD (gold-standard for the confirmation of CAD) and coronary computed tomographic angiography for those without CAD (excellent negative predictive value). Features were measured from the signal and used in machine learning to predict CAD status. The machine-learned algorithm achieved a sensitivity of 90% and specificity of 59%. The rule-out profile was maintained across both sexes, as well as all other relevant subgroups. A test to assess for CAD using machine learning on a noninvasive signal has been successfully developed, showing high performance and rule-out ability. Confirmation of the performance on a large clinical, blinded, enrollment-gated dataset is required before implementation of the test in clinical practice.
Treatment of Multiple RT1 Gingival Recessions Using a Coronally Advanced Flap Associated with L-PRF or Subgingival Connective Tissue Graft from Maxillary Tuberosity: A Randomized, Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Balice Giuseppe , Paolantonio Michele , Serroni Matteo , De Ninis Paolo , Rexhepi Imena , Frisone Alessio , Di Gregorio Stefania , Romano Luigi , Sinjari Bruna , Murmura Giovanna , Femminella Beatrice
Published: March 2024

The goal of plastic periodontal surgery is to obtain complete root coverage, increasing gingival thickness (GT), a positive prognostic factor for gingival margin stability over time. The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of the Coronally Advanced Flap (CAF) in RT1 (GR; gingival recession with no loss of interproximal attachment) when associated with a connective tissue graft from the maxillary tuberosity (tCTG) or with leukocyte and platelet-rich fibrin (L-PRF) membranes in obtaining root coverage and increasing the thickness and width of the keratinized tissue, along with aesthetic improvement, taking into account a number of patient-related outcomes. Thirty patients with two adjacent RT1 GRs (GRs with no loss of interproximal attachment) were each treated using CAF associated with tCTG (15 patients) or L-PRF. The main outcome was a GT increase; secondary outcomes were keratinized tissue width (KT), gingival recession (GR), probing depth (PD), clinical attachment level (CAL), root coverage percentage (RC%), complete root coverage (CRC), and root coverage esthetic score (RES). Patient-reported outcomes were discomfort (D), dentine hypersensitivity (DH), patient-related esthetic score (PRES), and overall treatment satisfaction (OTS). After 12 months, clinical and patient-reported parameters did not show significant differences between groups, with the only exception being a GT gain, which was significantly greater in the CAF + tCTG group. Our results showed that both techniques were effective in treating RT1 GRs, with comparable patient-related outcomes. However, the use of tCTG produces significantly thicker tissue, covering the exposed root surface.
Factors Affecting Uzbek Students’ Prewriting Investment at a South Korean University
Authors: Zhang Jiayu , Kim Jungyin
Published: March 2024

This ethnographic multiple-case study, grounded in the theory of investment, examines the prewriting practices of three Uzbekistani male undergraduates in an English essay writing class at a South Korean University. It aims to identify the symbolic resources they perceive as attainable through investment and to elucidate the factors shaping this investment. Utilizing a qualitative approach, which is appropriate for capturing the nuanced experiences and perceptions of individual learners, data were collected through interviews, classroom observations, and an analysis of teaching documents. This study finds that these students primarily seek three symbolic resources: language skills, educational access, and social networks. Their pursuit of these resources is significantly influenced by their academic aspirations for graduate school and the pattern of prewriting discussions in the classroom. Individual perceptions and priorities uniquely shape the impact of these factors on each student’s investment. The findings suggest that educators, by understanding the diverse perceptions of symbolic resources within limited instructional time, can tailor pedagogical strategies to effectively address students’ needs and foster a more engaging learning environment.
Comparative Evaluation of Three-Phase Three-Level Flying Capacitor and Stacked Polyphase Bridge GaN Inverter Systems for Integrated Motor Drives
Authors: Rohner Gwendolin , Huber Jonas , Mirić Spasoje , Kolar Johann W.
Published: March 2024

This article presents a comprehensive comparative evaluation of a three-phase Three-Level (3L) Flying Capacitor Converter (FCC) and a Stacked Polyphase Bridge Inverter (SPBI), specifically a converter system formed by two Series-Stacked Two-Level three-phase Converters (2L-SSC), for the realization of a 7.5 kW Integrated Motor Drive (IMD) with a high short-term overload capability. The 2L-SSC requires a motor with two three-phase windings and a split DC-link, but uses standard six-switch, two-level transistor configurations. In contrast, the bridge legs of the 3L-FCC feature flying capacitors whose voltages must be actively balanced. Despite the 800 V DC-link voltage, both topologies employ the same set of 650 V GaN power transistors, i.e., the same total chip area, and if operated at the same switching frequency, show identical semiconductor losses. Electric Discharge Machining (EDM) damage of the motor bearings is a relevant issue caused by the common-mode (CM) voltages of the inverter stage. The high effective switching frequency of the 3L-FCC and the possibility of CM voltage canceling in the 2L-SSC facilitate mitigation of EDM by means of CM chokes, whereby a substantially smaller CM choke with lower losses suffices for the 2L-SSC; based on exemplary designs, the 2L-SSC features only about 75% of the total volume and 85% of the nominal losses of the 3L-FCC. If, alternatively, motor-friendliness is maximized by including DC-referenced sine-wave output filters, the 3L-FCC’s higher effective switching frequency and the 2L-SSC’s need for two sets of filters due to the dual-winding-set motor change the outcome. In this case, the 3L-FCC features only about 60% of the volume and only about 55% of the 2L-SSC’s nominal losses.
PCA-Based Preprocessing for Clustering-Based Fetal Heart Rate Extraction in Non-Invasive Fetal Electrocardiograms
Authors: Oyarzún Luis , Castillo Encarnación , Parrilla Luis , Meyer-Baese Uwe , García Antonio
Published: March 2024

Non-invasive fetal electrocardiography (NI-ECG) is based on the acquisition of signals from electrodes on the mother’s abdominal surface. This abdominal ECG (aECG) signal consists of the maternal ECG (mECG) along with the fetal ECG (fECG) and other noises and artifacts. These records allow the acquisition of valuable and reliable information that helps ensure fetal well-being during pregnancy. This paper proposes a procedure based on principal component analysis (PCA) to obtain a single-channel master abdominal ECG record that can be used as input to fetal heart rate extraction techniques. The new procedure requires three main processing stages: PCA-based analysis for fECG-component extraction, polarity test, and curve fitting. To show the advantages of the proposal, this PCA-based method has been used as the feeding stage to a previously developed clustering-based method for single-channel aECG fetal heart rate monitoring. The results obtained for a set of real abdominal ECG recordings from annotated public aECG databases, the Abdominal and Direct Fetal ECG Database and the Challenge 2013 Training Set A, show improved efficiency in fetal heart rate extraction and illustrate the benefits derived from the use of such a master abdominal ECG channel. This allows us to achieve proper fetal heart rate monitoring without the need for manual inspection and selection of channels to be processed, while also allowing us to analyze records that would have been discarded otherwise.
Nonlinear Capacitance Compensation Method for Integrating a Metal–Semiconductor–Metal Varactor with a Gallium Nitride High Electron Mobility Transistor Power Amplifier
Authors: Li Ke , Gu Yitian , Guo Haowen , Zou Xinbo
Published: March 2024

A nonlinear capacitance compensation technique is presented in this paper to enhance the linearity of a power amplifier (PA) in the GaN process. The method involves placing an MSM varactor device alongside the GaN HEMT device, which works as the amplifying unit such that the overall capacitance observed at the amplifier input is constant, thus improving linearity. This approach is a reliable and straightforward way to improve PA linearity in the GaN process. The proof-of-concept prototype in this study involves the fabrication of a PA device using a standard GaN HEMT process, which successfully integrates the proposed compensation technique and demonstrates excellent compatibility with existing processes. The prototype has a saturation output power of 18 dBm, a peak power-added efficiency of 51.8%, and a small signal gain of 15.5 dB at 1 GHz. The measured AM–PM distortion at the 5 dB compression point is reduced by more than 50% compared to that of an uncompensated device. Furthermore, the results of third-order intermodulation distortion demonstrate the effectiveness of the linearity enhancement concept, with values improved by more than 5 dB in the linear region compared to those of the uncompensated device. All of the results demonstrate the potential utility of this design approach for wireless communication applications.
Studies on the Experimental Measurement of the Low-Frequency Aerodynamic Noise of Large Wind Turbines
Authors: Wang Wenjie , Yan Yan , Zhao Yongnian , Xue Yu
Published: March 2024

With the continuous warming of the global climate, expanding the use of renewable energy has become one of the main social responsibilities. However, as the number of installed wind turbines and their physical dimensions continue to increase, the issue of generated noise has become increasingly significant in influencing the acceptance and endorsement of wind power projects by neighboring communities. In this paper, we investigated the noise generated by two wind turbine units with rated powers of 1.5 MW and 4.5 MW and analyzed the variations in low-frequency noise during their operation and shutdown periods. This research shows that the power of a single unit has a significant impact on the low-frequency noise emitted into the environment. Compared with 1.5 MW wind turbines, 4.5 MW wind turbines generate more low-frequency noise when operating at the same wind speed. Further analysis of the narrowband frequency spectra and one-third octave spectra of the measured noise indicates that the low-frequency noise from the 4.5 MW wind turbine increases significantly in the range of approximately 80 Hz to 300 Hz, with more pronounced variations below 250 Hz corresponding to changes in wind speed. However, the overall variations in low-frequency noise with wind speed are not as notable as those observed for the 1.5 MW wind turbine. Due to the relatively weak attenuation of low-frequency noise in the atmosphere, the higher low-frequency content of large wind turbines may cause more distress to residents near wind farms. The result of this study emphasizes that in the planning and design of wind power projects, in addition to considering the efficiency of single-unit power generation and the contribution of renewable energy, it is also necessary to pay full attention to noise emission issues to ensure that the project is widely supported and accepted in the community.
Mutual Inductance Estimation Using an ANN for Inductive Power Transfer in EV Charging Applications
Authors: Abrantes Gonçalo C. , Costa Valter S. , Perdigão Marina S. , Cruz Sérgio
Published: March 2024

In the context of inductive power transfer (IPT) for electric vehicle (EV) charging, the precise determination of the mutual inductance between the magnetic pads is of critical importance. The value of this inductance varies depending on the EV positioning, affecting the power transfer capability. Therefore, the precise determination of its value yields various advantages, particularly by contributing to the optimization of the charging process of the EV batteries, since it offers the possibility of adjusting the position of the vehicle depending on the level of misalignment. Within this framework, algorithms grounded in artificial intelligence (AI) techniques emerge as promising solutions. This research work revolves around the estimation of the mutual inductance in a wireless inductive power transfer system using a resonant converter topology, implemented in MATLAB/Simulink® R2021b. The system output was developed to emulate the behavior of a battery charger. To estimate this parameter, an artificial neural network (ANN) was developed. Given the characteristics of the system, the features were chosen in a way that they could provide a clear indication to the ANN if the vehicle position changed, independently of the charging power. In the pursuit of creating a robust AI model, the training dataset contained approximately 1% of the available data. Upon the analysis of the results, it was verified that the largest estimation error observed was around 3%, occurring at the lowest charging power considered. Hence, it can be inferred that the proposed ANN exhibits the capability to accurately estimate the value of mutual inductance in this type of system.
Distributed Optimization of Islanded Microgrids Integrating Multi-Type VSG Frequency Regulation and Integrated Economic Dispatch
Authors: Xu Huixin , Sun Jiahang , Huang Jingguang , Lin Xinyuan , Ma Chenghao
Published: March 2024

The question of how to simultaneously perform frequency regulation and integrated economic scheduling for microgrids with low-inertia islanding operation under communication constraints is a difficult problem that needs to be solved for many current applications. To this end, this paper establishes a microgrid scheduling control model containing a virtual synchronous generator (VSG) with multiple types of power sources and proposes a distributed optimization algorithm that integrates frequency regulation and comprehensive economic scheduling to simultaneously realize frequency regulation and economic scheduling in a microgrid. Firstly, a distributed economic dispatch problem is proposed based on a comprehensive consideration of the costs and benefits of various types of power VSGs, as well as the overall inertia and standby capacity requirements of the microgrid, which minimizes the integrated costs incurred by the participation of each type of VSG in the frequency regulation and improves the stable operation of the microgrid in terms of frequency under perturbation. Then, the optimal scheduling problem is solved by reconstructing the optimization problem based on considering the dynamic characteristics of microgrid inverters and using event-triggered communication to sense and compensate for the supply-demand imbalance online. The proposed method can avoid inter-layer coordination across time scales, improve the inertia, frequency regulation capability, and economy of the system, and enhance its robustness to short-term communication failures. Finally, simulation results are used to verify the effectiveness of the method.
Simulation of Olive Pomace Gasification for Hydrogen Production Using Aspen Plus: Case Study Lebanon
Authors: Matta Georges , Semaan Daniella , Harb Rita
Published: March 2024

Biomass is a renewable energy source gaining attention for its potential to replace fossil fuels. Biomass gasification can produce hydrogen-rich gas, offering an environmentally friendly fuel for power generation, transportation, and industry. Hydrogen is a promising energy carrier due to its high energy density, low greenhouse gas emissions, and versatility. This study aims to develop a hydrogen generation plant using a dual fluidized bed gasifier, which employs steam as a gasifying agent, to convert olive pomace waste from the Lebanese olive oil industry into hydrogen. The process is simulated using Aspen Plus and Fortran coding, and it includes a drying unit, gasification unit, gas cleaning unit, steam methane reformer unit, water–gas shift reactor unit, and a pressure swing adsorption unit. The generated gas composition is verified against previous research. Sensitivity analyses are conducted to investigate the impacts of the steam-to-biomass ratio (STBR) and gasification temperature on gas composition, demonstrating a valid STBR range of 0.5 to 1 and a reasonable gasification temperature range of 700 °C to 800 °C. Further sensitivity analyses assess the impact of reformer temperature and the steam-to-carbon ratio (S/C) on the gas composition leaving the steam methane reformer.
Soil Respiration after Bark Beetle Infestation along a Vertical Transect in Mountain Spruce Forest
Authors: Tomes Jakub , Fleischer Peter , Kubov Martin , Fleischer Peter
Published: March 2024

In recent decades, large-scale forest disturbances such as windthrow and bark beetle infestations have significantly impacted Earth’s carbon balance and forest ecosystems. This impact alters soil respiration (SR), along with decreased gross primary productivity. To investigate the impact of bark beetle (Ips typographus L.) infestations in mountain spruce forests on SR, we measured SR at sites infested by bark beetles and adjacent undisturbed stands in the Tatra National Park (Slovakia) during the vegetation period (May–September) in 2016–2017 five to six years after the initial bark beetle attack. The measurements were taken along an altitudinal gradient (1100–1400 m a.s.l.). The highest rates of SR were observed during the summer months in both years (from June to August). However, yearly SR from May to September at infested sites showed significantly higher rates than uninfested ones in both years. SR showed a decreasing pattern with elevation gain in 2016 at infested sites, but this pattern was not observed in 2017. This study provides important insights into the impact of bark beetle infestations on SR and emphasizes the need for further research on the long-term effects of forest disturbances on carbon cycling. It also underscores the importance of determining the effect of different components of SR on the changed environment due to bark beetle attacks on mountain spruce forests.
Macro- and Microelements and the Impact of Sub-Mediterranean Downy Oak Forest Communities on Their Composition in Rainwater
Authors: Pham Cam Nhung , Gorbunov Roman , Lapchenko Vladimir , Gorbunova Tatiana , Tabunshchik Vladimir
Published: March 2024

In this study, we analyzed the content of chemical elements in rainwater and investigated the influence of forest cover on the composition of precipitation. The results obtained showed that the concentration of some elements in the rainwater collected under the forest canopy was higher than that in the open area. As part of the work, we calculated the enrichment factor and examined the sources of chemical elements in rainwater. We found that all macro-elements had increased values of the enrichment factors compared to the supporting elements of the Earth’s crust. Ca had the highest value. The values of the remaining elements (Sr, Pb, Mn, Cr, Ba, V, Fe) indicated their lithogenic and anthropogenic origins. We noted that the enrichment factor under the forest canopy was significantly lower than in the open area, indicating the dilution of these elements during water passage through the canopy. Elements such as Zn, Co, Cu, and Ni also had high enrichment factors, which indicate their anthropogenic origin. In the open area, most elements had an inverse relationship with pH, except for the alkali metals Na, Mg, and Ca, which had a positive relationship with the pH value. The concentration of K was not dependent on pH. In rainwater that had passed through the forest canopy, the concentrations of Na, Mg, and Ca were also not dependent on pH, while the concentration of K had an inverse relationship with pH. As the concentration of heavy metals in rainwater increases, the role of Na, Mg, and Ca in the process of water neutralization decreases.
Due Diligence for Deforestation-Free Supply Chains with Copernicus Sentinel-2 Imagery and Machine Learning
Authors: Reading Ivan , Bika Konstantina , Drakesmith Toby , McNeill Chris , Cheesbrough Sarah , Byrne Justin , Balzter Heiko
Published: March 2024

At COP26, the Glasgow Leaders Declaration committed to ending deforestation by 2030. Implementing deforestation-free supply chains is of growing importance to importers and exporters but challenging due to the complexity of supply chains for agricultural commodities which are driving tropical deforestation. Monitoring tools are needed that alert companies of forest losses around their source farms. ForestMind has developed compliance monitoring tools for deforestation-free supply chains. The system delivers reports to companies based on automated satellite image analysis of forest loss around farms. We describe an algorithm based on the Python for Earth Observation (PyEO) package to deliver near-real-time forest alerts from Sentinel-2 imagery and machine learning. A Forest Analyst interprets the multi-layer raster analyst report and creates company reports for monitoring supply chains. We conclude that the ForestMind extension of PyEO with its hybrid change detection from a random forest model and NDVI differencing produces actionable farm-scale reports in support of the EU Deforestation Regulation. The user accuracy of the random forest model was 96.5% in Guatemala and 93.5% in Brazil. The system provides operational insights into forest loss around source farms in countries from which commodities are imported.
Nitrogen Addition Promotes the Accumulation of Soil Particulate Organic Carbon in a Subtropical Forest
Authors: Chen Jingqi , Zhang Qiufang , Dai Hui , Feng Jiguang , Zeng Quanxin , Sun Xueqi , Peng Yuanzhen , Chen Wenwei , Zhu Biao , Chen Yuehmin
Published: March 2024

Nitrogen (N) deposition rates of terrestrial ecosystems have gradually declined but are still high in some areas. Previous studies have reported that N addition elicits diverse impacts on soil organic carbon (SOC) pools. SOC can be divided into different functional fractions, namely, particulate organic carbon (POC) and mineral-associated organic carbon (MAOC). The responses of these fractions to N addition should be elucidated to better understand the changes in SOC pools. Here, we conducted a N addition experiment (0, 40, and 80 kg N ha−1 yr−1) in a subtropical Castanopsis fabri forest to simulate N deposition. The surface (0−10 cm) SOC fractions, aboveground litter product, fine root (diameter < 2 mm) biomass, soil exchangeable cation content, and soil enzyme activity under different N addition treatments were measured. The results showed the following: (1) N addition showed a positive effect on POC and SOC contents but did not significantly affect MAOC content; (2) POC content was negatively correlated with pH and soil enzyme activity and positively correlated with aboveground litter product, suggesting that POC accumulation was influenced by aboveground litter input and microbial decomposition; (3) a close negative relationship was observed between exchangeable Al3+ and Ca2+ or K+ contents, indicating that there is likely to be a trade-off between the mineral sorption and desorption, thus resulting in an insignificant reaction of MAOC to N addition. Overall, the accumulation of SOC under short-term N addition was found to be primarily driven by POC, and the response of different SOC functional fractions to N addition was inconsistent. By incorporating these nuances into ecosystem models, it is possible to predict SOC dynamics more accurately in response to global change.
Microwave-Assisted Extraction/UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap-MS-Based Lipidomic Workflow for Comprehensive Study of Lipids in Soft Cheese
Authors: Campaniello Maria , Nardelli Valeria , Zianni Rosalia , Tomaiuolo Michele , Miedico Oto , Iammarino Marco , Mentana Annalisa
Published: March 2024

In this work, Microwave-Assisted Extraction (MAE) was proposed as an alternative and environmentally friendly technique in lipidomics to study the lipid fingerprint of soft cheeses, such as mozzarella. For method development, a first step concerning an evaluation of extraction solvents was carried out via testing three different mixtures, including methanol/ethyl acetate, isopropanol/ethyl acetate, and ethanol/ethyl acetate, at a 1:2 v/v ratio. The latter was chosen as a solvent mixture for subsequent method optimization. MAE conditions, in terms of solvent volume, time, and temperature, were explored to define their effects on extraction capability through a full factorial experimental design. The best compromise to extract more lipids at the same time was obtained with 24 mL g−1 for solvent-to-solid ratio, 65 °C for temperature, and 18 min for time. Lipid analyses were conducted by UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap-MS associated with multivariate statistics. The developed lipidomic workflow allowed for the extraction of over 400 lipids grouped into 18 different subclasses. The results confirmed that MAE is a suitable technique for lipid extraction in the omics approach with high efficiency, even using low-cost and less toxic solvents. Moreover, a comprehensive structure characterization of extracted lipids, in terms of fatty acid composition and regiochemistry, was carried out.
Changes in Novel Biomarkers for Protein Oxidation in Pork Patties under Different Cooking Methods
Authors: Guo Chuanyu , Wang Shouyin , Jia Xiaolei , Pan Jinfeng , Dong Xiuping , Li Shengjie
Published: March 2024

The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of different biomarkers to identify the levels of protein oxidation in pork patties induced by assorted cooking methods. To achieve this purpose, pork patties prepared from longissimus dorsi were cooked using three methods (frying, steaming, and roasting) at different internal temperatures (60, 70, 80, and 90 °C). Traditional biomarkers including total carbonyl and total thiol and novel biomarkers including α-aminoadipic semialdehyde (AAS) and lysinonorleucine (LNL) were determined. Results demonstrated that total thiol and AAS were the most successful biomarkers in distinguishing the three cooking methods in relation to protein oxidation, with AAS being the most sensitive. Moreover, as indicated by the biomarkers of total thiol and AAS, frying caused the highest level of protein oxidation, while steaming resulted in the lowest level when pork patties were cooked to the internal temperatures of 70 or 80 °C.
GSDMB/ORMDL3 Rare/Common Variants Are Associated with Inhaled Corticosteroid Response among Children with Asthma
Authors: Voorhies Kirsten , Mohammed Akram , Chinthala Lokesh , Kong Sek Won , Lee In-Hee , Kho Alvin T. , McGeachie Michael , Mandl Kenneth D. , Raby Benjamin , Hayes Melanie , Davis Robert L. , Wu Ann Chen , Lutz Sharon M.
Published: March 2024

Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) are efficacious in the treatment of asthma, which affects more than 300 million people in the world. While genome-wide association studies have identified genes involved in differential treatment responses to ICS in asthma, few studies have evaluated the effects of combined rare and common variants on ICS response among children with asthma. Among children with asthma treated with ICS with whole exome sequencing (WES) data in the PrecisionLink Biobank (91 White and 20 Black children), we examined the effect and contribution of rare and common variants with hospitalizations or emergency department visits. For 12 regions previously associated with asthma and ICS response (DPP10, FBXL7, NDFIP1, TBXT, GLCCI1, HDAC9, TBXAS1, STAT6, GSDMB/ORMDL3, CRHR1, GNGT2, FCER2), we used the combined sum test for the sequence kernel association test (SKAT) adjusting for age, sex, and BMI and stratified by race. Validation was conducted in the Biorepository and Integrative Genomics (BIG) Initiative (83 White and 134 Black children). Using a Bonferroni threshold for the 12 regions tested (i.e., 0.05/12 = 0.004), GSDMB/ORMDL3 was significantly associated with ICS response for the combined effect of rare and common variants (p-value = 0.003) among White children in the PrecisionLink Biobank and replicated in the BIG Initiative (p-value = 0.02). Using WES data, the combined effect of rare and common variants for GSDMB/ORMDL3 was associated with ICS response among asthmatic children in the PrecisionLink Biobank and replicated in the BIG Initiative. This proof-of-concept study demonstrates the power of biobanks of pediatric real-life populations in asthma genomic investigations.
Building Minimized Epigenetic Clock by iPlex MassARRAY Platform
Authors: Davydova Ekaterina , Perenkov Alexey , Vedunova Maria
Published: March 2024

Epigenetic clocks are valuable tools for estimating both chronological and biological age by assessing DNA methylation levels at specific CpG dinucleotides. While conventional epigenetic clocks rely on genome-wide methylation data, targeted approaches offer a more efficient alternative. In this study, we explored the feasibility of constructing a minimized epigenetic clock utilizing data acquired through the iPlex MassARRAY technology. The study enrolled a cohort of relatively healthy individuals, and their methylation levels of eight specific CpG dinucleotides in genes SLC12A5, LDB2, FIGN, ACSS3, FHL2, and EPHX3 were evaluated using the iPlex MassARRAY system and the Illumina EPIC array. The methylation level of five studied CpG sites demonstrated significant correlations with chronological age and an acceptable convergence of data obtained by the iPlex MassARRAY and Illumina EPIC array. At the same time, the methylation level of three CpG sites showed a weak relationship with age and exhibited a low concordance between the data obtained from the two technologies. The construction of the epigenetic clock involved the utilization of different machine-learning models, including linear models, deep neural networks (DNN), and gradient-boosted decision trees (GBDT). The results obtained from these models were compared with each other and with the outcomes generated by other well-established epigenetic clocks. In our study, the TabNet architecture (deep tabular data learning architecture) exhibited the best performance (best MAE = 5.99). Although our minimized epigenetic clock yielded slightly higher age prediction errors compared to other epigenetic clocks, it still represents a viable alternative to the genome-wide epigenotyping array.
Genetic Alterations in a Large Population of Italian Patients Affected by Neurodevelopmental Disorders
Authors: Ranieri Annaluisa , La Monica Ilaria , Di Iorio Maria Rosaria , Lombardo Barbara , Pastore Lucio
Published: March 2024

Neurodevelopmental disorders are a group of complex multifactorial disorders characterized by cognitive impairment, communication deficits, abnormal behaviour, and/or motor skills resulting from abnormal neural development. Copy number variants (CNVs) are genetic alterations often associated with neurodevelopmental disorders. We evaluated the diagnostic efficacy of the array-comparative genomic hybridization (a-CGH) method and its relevance as a routine diagnostic test in patients with neurodevelopmental disorders for the identification of the molecular alterations underlying or contributing to the clinical manifestations. In the present study, we analysed 1800 subjects with neurodevelopmental disorders using a CGH microarray. We identified 208 (7%) pathogenetic CNVs, 2202 (78%) variants of uncertain significance (VOUS), and 504 (18%) benign CNVs in the 1800 patients analysed. Some alterations contain genes potentially related to neurodevelopmental disorders including CHRNA7, ANKS1B, ANKRD11, RBFOX1, ASTN2, GABRG3, SHANK2, KIF1A SETBP1, SNTG2, CTNNA2, TOP3B, CNTN4, CNTN5, and CNTN6. The identification of interesting significant genes related to neurological disorders with a-CGH is therefore an essential step in the diagnostic procedure, allowing a better understanding of both the pathophysiology of these disorders and the mechanisms underlying their clinical manifestations.
Effects of a Problem-Based Learning Education Program for Occupational Health Nursing Using Smart Learning on Occupational Health Knowledge and Nursing Professionalism
Authors: Hong Kyung Jin
Published: March 2024

This study aimed to develop a problem-based learning program for occupational health nursing using smart learning, and to report the program’s effects on occupational health knowledge and nursing professionalism. A quasi-experimental study was performed using a non-equivalent control group pre-test–post-test design. An occupational health nursing problem-based learning program using smart learning was developed, and students produced videos containing problem-solving strategies in groups. The experimental and control groups consisted of 34 and 29 participants, respectively. To collect data, an online survey was conducted before and immediately after the intervention. The experimental and control group’s mean scores for occupational health knowledge before the intervention were 5.74 and 7.41, respectively. Additionally, the mean scores for nursing professionalism were 3.45 and 3.66. After the intervention, both the knowledge on occupational health and nursing professionalism score improved to 8.26 and 3.64 in the experimental group. This study reported significant improvements after conducting the occupational health nursing education program. These results demonstrate the need to develop a nursing education program for problem-based learning utilizing smart learning. Moreover, filming videos in cooperation with students can improve the effectiveness of education by improving knowledge.