bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Breast Cancer in the Arabian Gulf Countries
Authors: Al-Shamsi Humaid O. , Abdelwahed Nadia , Abyad Amin , Abu-Gheida Ibrahim , Afrit Mehdi , Abu ElFuol Tasneem , Alasas Ryad , Lababidi Bilal , Dash Prasanta , Ahmad Mudhasir , Dreier Norbert W. , ul Haq Urfan , Joshua Thanda Lucy Ann , Otsmane Sonia , Al-Nouri Anwar , Al-Awadhi Aydah , Tirmazy Syed Hammad , Alterkait Faisal , Elsabae Shimaa , Khan Nyla , Albastaki Nehad Kazim , Sonawane Yoginee , Jouda Mohammed , Perdawood Frea , Iqbal Faryal , Jaafar Hassan
Published: November 2023

Breast cancer stands as the prevailing malignancy across all six Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations. In this literature review, we highlighted the incidence and trend of breast cancer in the GCC. Most of the studies reported a consistent increase in breast cancer incidence over the past decades, which was particularly attributed to the adoption of a Westernized lifestyle in the region and the implications of emerging risk factors and other environmental and societal factors, the increase in screening uptake, as well as the improvement in data collection and reporting in the GCC. The data on breast cancer risk factors in the GCC were limited. In this geographic region, breast cancer frequently manifests with distinctive characteristics, including an early onset, typically occurring before the age of 50; an advanced stage at presentation; and a higher pathological grade. Additionally, it often exhibits more aggressive features such as human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) positivity or the presence of triple-negative (TN) attributes, particularly among younger patients. Despite the growing body of literature on breast cancer in the GCC, data pertaining to survival rates are, regrettably, meager. Reports on breast cancer survival rates emanating from the GCC region are largely confined to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). In the UAE, predictive modeling reveals 2-year and 5-year survival rates of 97% and 89%, respectively, for the same period under scrutiny. These rates, when compared to Western counterparts such as Australia (89.5%) and Canada (88.2%), fall within the expected range. Conversely, Saudi Arabia reports a notably lower 5-year survival rate, standing at 72%. This disparity in survival rates underscores the need for further research directed toward elucidating risk factors and barriers that hinder early detection and screening. Additionally, there is a pressing need for expanded data reporting on survival outcomes within the GCC. In sum, a more comprehensive and nuanced understanding of breast cancer dynamics in this region is imperative to inform effective strategies for prevention, early detection, and improved patient outcomes.
Predictors of Neurological Worsening after Resection of Spinal Meningiomas
Authors: Jankovic Dragan , Kalasauskas Darius , Othman Ahmed , Brockmann Marc A. , Sommer Clemens J. , Ringel Florian , Keric Naureen
Published: November 2023

Background: Due to the slow-growing nature of spinal meningiomas, they are mostly asymptomatic for a long time, and become symptomatic after the compression of the spinal cord or nerve roots. The aim of this study was to identify predictors for a poor clinical outcome after the surgical resection of spinal meningiomas and thereby to allow a preoperative identification of high-risk spinal meningiomas. Methods: Data acquisition was conducted as a single-center retrospective analysis. From 1 January 2004 to 31 December 2019, 121 patients who underwent surgical resection of a spinal meningioma were reviewed. Clinical and radiological data (such as tumor size, location, occupation ratio of the spinal canal, and the degree of spinal cord compression) were assessed. The functional clinical findings of the patients were recorded using the Karnofsky Performance Score, modified McCormick scale, and Frankel scale preoperatively, at discharge, and 3–6 months after surgery. Results: The mean patient age was 66 ± 13 years. A total of 104 (86%) patients were female and 17 (14%) were male. The thoracic spine (68%) was the most common location, followed by the cervical (29%) and lumbar (3%) spine. Preoperatively, 11.7% of patients were categorized as McCormick 1, 35.8% as 2, 39.2% as 3, 11.7% as 4, and 1.7% as 5. The neurological function of the patients with a functional deficit prior to surgery improved in 46% of the patients, remained unchanged in 52%, and worsened in 2% at discharge. At early follow-up, the proportions were 54%, 28%, and 5%, respectively. Preoperative Frankel scale was a significant predictor of a postoperative deterioration. Patients with Frankel score A to C preoperatively had a 9.2 times higher chance of clinical deterioration postoperatively (OR = 9.16). We found that the Frankel scale weakly correlated with the degree of spinal cord compression. In this study, other radiological parameters, such as the degree of cord compression and spinal canal occupation ratio, did not show a significant effect on the outcome. Conclusions: Surgery of intraspinal meningiomas can be considered safe. Neurological function improves in a large proportion of patients after surgery. However, a relevant preoperative deficit according to the Frankel scale (grade A–C) was a significant predictor of a postoperative neurological deterioration.
Molecular Biology and Clinical Management of Esophageal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Li Shulin , Hoefnagel Sanne Johanna Maria , Krishnadath Kausilia Krishnawatie
Published: November 2023

Esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) is a highly lethal malignancy. Due to its rising incidence, EAC has become a severe health challenge in Western countries. Current treatment strategies are mainly chosen based on disease stage and clinical features, whereas the biological background is hardly considered. In this study, we performed a comprehensive review of existing studies and discussed how etiology, genetics and epigenetic characteristics, together with the tumor microenvironment, contribute to the malignant behavior and dismal prognosis of EAC. During the development of EAC, several intestinal-type proteins and signaling cascades are induced. The anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive microenvironment is associated with poor survival. The accumulation of somatic mutations at the early phase and chromosomal structural rearrangements at relatively later time points contribute to the dynamic and heterogeneous genetic landscape of EAC. EAC is also characterized by frequent DNA methylation and dysregulation of microRNAs. We summarize the findings of dysregulations of specific cytokines, chemokines and immune cells in the tumor microenvironment and conclude that DNA methylation and microRNAs vary with each different phase of BE, LGD, HGD, early EAC and invasive EAC. Furthermore, we discuss the suitability of the currently employed therapies in the clinic and possible new therapies in the future. The development of targeted and immune therapies has been hampered by the heterogeneous genetic characteristics of EAC. In view of this, the up-to-date knowledge revealed by this work is absolutely important for future EAC studies and the discovery of new therapeutics.
Polymerization Behavior and Rheological Properties of a Surfactant-Modified Reactive Hydrophobic Monomer
Authors: Wen Xin , Wang Lei , Lai Xiaojuan , Liu Guiru , Yang Wenwen , Gao Jinhao , Liu Yameng , Cui Wenyu
Published: November 2023

The structures and properties of hydrophobic association polymers can be controlled using micelles. In this work, we synthesize a reactive hydrophobic surfactant monomer, KS-3, from oleic acid, N,N-dimethylpropylenediamine, and allyl chloride. A strong synergistic effect between KS-3 and cocamidopropyl betaine in aqueous solution enhances the hydrophilic dispersibility of KS-3, thereby transforming spherical micelles into cylindrical micelles. KS-3 was grafted onto a polyacrylamide chain via aqueous free-radical polymerization to obtain RES, a hydrophobic association polymer. Structural analysis revealed that the RES polymers assembled in wormlike micelles were more tightly arranged than those assembled in spherical micelles, resulting in a compact network structure in water, smooth surface, and high thermal stability. Rheological tests revealed that the synthesized polymers with wormlike and spherical micelles exhibited shear-thinning properties along with different structural strengths and viscoelasticities. Therefore, controlling the micellar state can effectively regulate the polymer properties. The polymers obtained through wormlike micelle polymerization have potential applications in fields with high demands, such as drug release, water purification, and oilfield development.
Component Engineering of Multiphase Nickel Sulfide-Based Bifunctional Electrocatalysts for Efficient Overall Water Splitting
Authors: Qu Nianrui , Han Lu , Wu Tianhui , Luo Qingzhi , Tang Shoufeng , Gu Jianmin , Wang Desong
Published: November 2023

The development of highly efficient and low-cost bifunctional electrocatalysts for water splitting has become increasingly attractive. So far, the strategies to optimize electrocatalytic performance have mainly focused on enhancing the active sites and regulating the surface structures through doping foreign metal or anions into the composites; however, the internal and external adjustments achieved by tuning the chemical composition and crystalline phases in a material in order to investigate the composition-dependent catalytic activity has generally remained limited. Here, through various in situ composition-dependent nickel sulfides grown while controlling the sulfidation degree, we achieve the precise regulation of nickel sulfides from a single-phase component to multiple-phase components (i.e., two-phase components and three-phase components), further comparing the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) performances. Benefiting from the synergy of an analogous uniform nanoarray structure and excellent intrinsic activation, the as-obtained NixSy-5, with three-phase components, shows low overpotentials at 10 mA cm−2 for HER (148 mV) and OER (111 mV), as well as a low cell voltage of 1.48 V for overall water splitting in alkaline media, which are among the best results ever reported for overall water splitting.
Coating Characteristics and Dynamics of Sponge Roller Coatings with Different Viscosities and Linear Speeds for Different Diameters of Rollers
Authors: Zhu Yu , Huang Yingjian , Lv Shuaishuai , Ni Hongjun , Zhou Lin , Wang Xingxing , Lin Changbin , Wu Xiaoyu
Published: November 2023

Coating technology, as a common coating method, is widely used in many industrial fields, among which the mattress industry utilizes it to bond sponges to produce foam mattresses. The thickness of the coating on the sponge is crucial to the quality and performance of the mattress. Hence, this study took the CNCHK-10 high-performance intelligent sponge roller coating as a model; simulated the roller coating process under different viscosities and linear speeds using fluid simulation; analyzed the effects of different viscosities of the coating liquid and the linear speeds of the rollers on the thickness of the coating; and derived the relationships between the viscosity of the coating liquid and the linear speed of the rollers and the thickness of the coating. The relationship between the viscosity of the coating liquid and the linear speed of the roller and coating thickness was obtained. The results show that in the viscosity range of the glue, the viscosity is 1.5 Pa·s when the coating thickness is the smallest, and, at this time, the amount of glue is about 74.1927 g/m2; in the adjustment range of the roller linear speed, the linear speed is 20 m/min when the coating thickness is the smallest, and, at this time, the amount of glue is about 74.1931 g/m2. The results of the study can be used for determining the coating process parameters for a reasonable selection and control to provide a theoretical basis.
Solidification Segregation Behavior and Homogenization Process of a Difficult-to-Deform Superalloy Used at 850 °C
Authors: Tai Wenbin , Zhang Rui , Cui Chuanyong , Zhou Zijian , Zhou Yizhou , Sun Xiaofeng
Published: November 2023

Solidification segregation behavior and homogenization heat treatment processes of a difficult-to-deform superalloy for use at 850 °C were studied. Additionally, the effect of carbon content on homogenization, the thermal treatment process, and pore growth behavior within the alloy were discussed. Our results revealed that Al, Ti, and Nb elements are distributed in the interdendritic space, while W and Mo elements are distributed in the dendrite. There is a significant quantity of γ-γ′ eutectic and MC carbide precipitates in the interdendritic space. Notably, for the alloy containing 0.1 wt% C, a homogenization heat treatment at 1200 °C for 48 h can effectively eliminate the segregation and undesirable phases. As carbon content increased, the γ-γ′ eutectic phases diminished, and the homogenization time decreased accordingly. In this context, pores are smaller and more dispersed, which may enhance alloy forging properties.
Influence of the Process Parameters on the Synthesis of Urea Phosphate and the Properties of the Obtained Product
Authors: Jančaitienė Kristina , Medekšaitė Agnė , Šlinkšienė Rasa
Published: November 2023

The ever-increasing food demand associated with the growing human population poses similar challenges to both farmers and fertilizer producers. In view of climate change and the increasing area of infertile land, it is very important to use correctly balanced and highly effective fertilizers in agriculture. Water-soluble fertilizers are becoming more and more popular. It is convenient to use them together with irrigation water because this reduces the negative effects of droughts and accelerates the assimilation of nutrients needed by plants. The aim of this work was to synthesize urea phosphate (UP) (water-soluble complex nitrogen–phosphorus fertilizers NPF) through the reaction of phosphoric acid and urea. The most important moment of the work is that the synthesis was carried out using a purified wet-process phosphoric acid (PWPA) and urea by varying the stoichiometric ratio and the duration time of crystallization. Based on the results of the experiment, it was found that, in the presence of excess acid, the concentration of phosphorus pentoxide (P2O5) is too high, the concentration of amide nitrogen (Namide) is too low, and vice versa. The best ratio of P2O5 and Namide was determined when both reactants were used in a ratio of 1.0:1.0. Crystallization was carried out at 20 °C with different reaction times: 30, 60, 90 and 120 min. Analysis of the chemical composition of the synthesized urea phosphate and determination of the main components, i.e., Namide and P2O5 concentrations, were performed using standard fertilizer analysis methods. Using the optical emission spectroscopy, the concentrations of chemical elements (sulphur, aluminium, iron, calcium, magnesium, silicon, etc.) were also determined in the synthesized product. During the experiment, not only the chemical composition of the product, but also the resulting crystals of the product, and their size and shape—properties that are highly dependent on the duration of crystallization—were analysed. The thermal stability of UP crystals was investigated using simultaneous thermal analysis; the crystallinity of UP was determined using X-ray diffraction analysis; the identification of groups of chemical elements was carried out using Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy analysis; the shape and size of crystals were investigated using scan electron microscopy and optical microscope techniques.
Thermoluminescent and Dosimetric Properties of Zirconium Dioxide Ceramics Irradiated with High Doses of Pulsed Electron Beam
Authors: Nikiforov Sergey , Dauletbekova Alma , Gerasimov Maksim , Kasatkina Yana , Denisova Olga , Lisitsyn Viktor , Golkovski Mikhail , Akylbekova Aiman , Bazarbek Assyl-Dastan , Akilbekov Abdirash , Popov Anatoli I.
Published: November 2023

Thermoluminescent (TL) properties of monoclinic zirconium dioxide ceramics were studied in order to assess the possibility of their use for measuring high doses (on the order of kGy) of pulsed electron beams (130 keV). Two types of samples were used: those synthesized by sintering in an electric furnace at T = 700–1700 °C and those synthesized in a flow of high-energy electrons (1.4 MeV) with a high power density. Analysis of the X-ray diffraction patterns using the Scherrer method revealed that annealing of ceramics of the first type at T > 1000 °C leads to a significant increase in the size of crystallites, which correlates with a significant increase in the intensity of the TL peak at 390 K. Type 2 ceramics synthesized by the electron beam method have the maximum TL response. Using the peak shape analysis method, the kinetic parameters of TL (activation energy, frequency factor, and kinetic order) were calculated. This study marks the first instance of establishing the patterns of influence of synthesis conditions and crystallite size on their values. The presence of an intense isolated TL peak, the sublinear nature of most dose dependencies, and negligible fading indicate the promise of the ceramics synthesized in this work for measuring high doses (several to tens of kGy).
Clinical and Molecular Features of Morpheaform Basal Cell Carcinoma: A Systematic Review
Authors: Conte Santina , Ghezelbash Sarah , Nallanathan Bonika , Lefrançois Philippe
Published: November 2023

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common skin cancer, with a lifetime risk currently approaching up to 40% in Caucasians. Among these, some clinical and pathological BCC variants pose a higher risk due to their more aggressive biological behavior. Morpheaform BCC (morBCC), also known as sclerosing, fibrosing, or morpheic BCC, represents up to 5–10% of all BCC. Overall, morBCC carries a poorer prognosis due to late presentation, local tissue destruction, tumor recurrence, and higher frequency of metastasis. In this systematic review, we review the epidemiological, clinical, morphological, dermatoscopical, and molecular features of morBCC. After the title and abstract screening of 222 studies and the full-text review of 84 studies, a total of 54 studies met the inclusion criteria and were thus included in this review.
Diving into Diversity: Copepod Crustaceans in Octocoral Associations
Authors: Korzhavina Oksana A. , Grishina Darya Y. , Chen Xingru , Fontaneto Diego , Ivanenko Viatcheslav N.
Published: November 2023

This research provides an extensive analysis of the biodiversity and distribution patterns of copepod crustaceans associated with octocoral species. A comprehensive dataset comprising 966 records pertaining to 233 copepod species, encompassing 54 genera, 18 families, and 3 orders, was compiled from 92 scientific papers published between 1858 and 2023, and updated as open data to GBIF. These copepods were found to be closely associated with 183 octocoral species, representing 72 genera and 28 families. The analysis revealed a total of 393 distinct interspecific associations between copepods, classified under the orders Cyclopoida, Harpacticoida, and Siphonostomatoida, and diverse octocorals. Approximately 60% of these associations were reported only once in the literature, which poses challenges to assessing the level of host specificity among the majority of copepod species linked with octocorals. Notably, over 91% of the recorded copepod species were found at depths not exceeding 30 m, with only four copepod species reported at greater depths surpassing 500 m. The presence of these symbiotic copepods was documented across 215 sampling sites situated within 8 of the 12 defined marine ecoregions, with particular attention to the Western Indo-Pacific, Central Indo-Pacific, and Temperate Northern regions. Despite the comprehensive examination of available data, this study highlights substantial gaps in our comprehension of copepod crustacean diversity and distribution in association with octocorals. Moreover, crucial information concerning symbiotic copepods is conspicuously absent for approximately 94% of potential octocoral host species. These disparities emphasize the imperative need for further scientific inquiry to unveil the intricacies of symbiotic relationships and to contribute to a more holistic understanding of copepod–octocoral associations.
The Role of Design and Digital Media in Monitoring and Improving the Performance of Taekwondo Athletes
Authors: Silva Tânia , Martins Nuno , Cunha Pedro , Soares Filomena , Carvalho Vítor
Published: November 2023

This paper aims to demonstrate how design and digital media can have a relevant contribution to the improvement of Taekwondo athletes’ performance. This study focuses on answering the existing gap of a solution that allows quick and accurate access to data about the performance of martial arts athletes. This access to complex information, previously inaccessible or indecipherable to athletes and coaches, allowed, through digital design, the improvement of communication and a more personalized training feedback. The methodology developed was based on design thinking, in a work process that consisted of user identification, and the conception of a prototype in the user-centred design framework. The results obtained in the usability tests performed with Taekwondo athletes and coaches were demonstrative of the efficiency of the designed solution. These scores are also a stimulus for the potential replication and adaptation of the study in other martial arts.
Automated Computer-Assisted Medical Decision-Making System Based on Morphological Shape and Skin Thickness Analysis for Asymmetry Detection in Mammographic Images
Authors: Bayareh-Mancilla Rafael , Medina-Ramos Luis Alberto , Toriz-Vázquez Alfonso , Hernández-Rodríguez Yazmín Mariela , Cigarroa-Mayorga Oscar Eduardo
Published: November 2023

Breast cancer is a significant health concern for women, emphasizing the need for early detection. This research focuses on developing a computer system for asymmetry detection in mammographic images, employing two critical approaches: Dynamic Time Warping (DTW) for shape analysis and the Growing Seed Region (GSR) method for breast skin segmentation. The methodology involves processing mammograms in DICOM format. In the morphological study, a centroid-based mask is computed using extracted images from DICOM files. Distances between the centroid and the breast perimeter are then calculated to assess similarity through Dynamic Time Warping analysis. For skin thickness asymmetry identification, a seed is initially set on skin pixels and expanded based on intensity and depth similarities. The DTW analysis achieves an accuracy of 83%, correctly identifying 23 possible asymmetry cases out of 20 ground truth cases. The GRS method is validated using Average Symmetric Surface Distance and Relative Volumetric metrics, yielding similarities of 90.47% and 66.66%, respectively, for asymmetry cases compared to 182 ground truth segmented images, successfully identifying 35 patients with potential skin asymmetry. Additionally, a Graphical User Interface is designed to facilitate the insertion of DICOM files and provide visual representations of asymmetrical findings for validation and accessibility by physicians.
Predicting Thalassemia Using Feature Selection Techniques: A Comparative Analysis
Authors: Saleem Muniba , Aslam Waqar , Lali Muhammad Ikram Ullah , Rauf Hafiz Tayyab , Nasr Emad Abouel
Published: November 2023

Thalassemia represents one of the most common genetic disorders worldwide, characterized by defects in hemoglobin synthesis. The affected individuals suffer from malfunctioning of one or more of the four globin genes, leading to chronic hemolytic anemia, an imbalance in the hemoglobin chain ratio, iron overload, and ineffective erythropoiesis. Despite the challenges posed by this condition, recent years have witnessed significant advancements in diagnosis, therapy, and transfusion support, significantly improving the prognosis for thalassemia patients. This research empirically evaluates the efficacy of models constructed using classification methods and explores the effectiveness of relevant features that are derived using various machine-learning techniques. Five feature selection approaches, namely Chi-Square (χ2), Exploratory Factor Score (EFS), tree-based Recursive Feature Elimination (RFE), gradient-based RFE, and Linear Regression Coefficient, were employed to determine the optimal feature set. Nine classifiers, namely K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN), Decision Trees (DT), Gradient Boosting Classifier (GBC), Linear Regression (LR), AdaBoost, Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGB), Random Forest (RF), Light Gradient Boosting Machine (LGBM), and Support Vector Machine (SVM), were utilized to evaluate the performance. The χ2 method achieved accuracy, registering 91.56% precision, 91.04% recall, and 92.65% f-score when aligned with the LR classifier. Moreover, the results underscore that amalgamating over-sampling with Synthetic Minority Over-sampling Technique (SMOTE), RFE, and 10-fold cross-validation markedly elevates the detection accuracy for αT patients. Notably, the Gradient Boosting Classifier (GBC) achieves 93.46% accuracy, 93.89% recall, and 92.72% F1 score.
Understanding the Macroeconomic Effects of Female Participation in the Labour Market
Authors: Buterin Vesna , Fajdetić Barbara , Funarić Barbara
Published: November 2023

Throughout history, women have struggled to find their place in the labour market. Their participation in the labour market is usually characterised by worse working conditions; they tend to work in lower-paid jobs, under worse social conditions, and in the vast majority of cases their work in the household is not credited. Women make up half of the world’s population, and their non-participation in the labour force has negative consequences for economic growth. Therefore, this paper examines the impact of women’s participation in the labour market on living standard in the European Union. Data on women’s participation in entrepreneurship and politics were also analysed as part of this work. Panel data analysis was conducted for the period 2009–2022 for 27 members of the European Union, using fixed and random effects. The results show that long-term unemployment has a negative impact on GDP per capita. Moreover, a higher share of women in parliament and better education of women is confirmed to be crucial for GDP per capita growth. Failure to include women could have serious consequences for economic growth. The key to success is education and social change that enable women to play the same role as men in the labour market.
Teachers’ Experiences of Inclusion in Classroom Settings
Authors: Lagestad Pål Arild , Tverbakk May Line Rotvik , Valle Anne Marit , Hanssen Natallia Badhanovich
Published: November 2023

Inclusion, as a general term, touches upon the most important social aspects of human life—the experience of being valuable and the sense of belonging. The aim of the study was to examine the assessments of teachers at dyslexia-friendly schools (DFS) on how their students are being included and accepted by other students in class, and if these experiences differ between teachers that work in primary schools, secondary schools, and upper secondary schools. A questionnaire was administered to 433 teachers in Norway working at ordinary schools that were certified as DFS. A main finding was that almost all of the teachers reported a high, or very high, acceptance of differences regarding social and intellectual skills among students with special educational needs (SEN). Our findings about the high levels of social inclusion among students with SEN in DFS point towards the importance of including students with SEN in ordinary classes, not in special schools. Another main result was that teachers from primary schools reported a higher level of inclusion among SEN students than teachers from secondary schools. We argue that an explanation of this finding is that teachers working in primary schools have a relatively greater focus on inclusion in their teacher education. Other explanations may be a lower number of SEN students at primary schools, and that students at secondary schools experience environmental and biological changes that may affect their inclusion. In accordance with previous research, we find that in terms of inclusion in the classroom, the teacher’s role and behavior are of critical importance.
A Disposable Carbon-Based Electrochemical Cell Modified with Carbon Black and Ag/δ-FeOOH for Non-Enzymatic H2O2 Electrochemical Sensing
Authors: Melo Wiviane E. R. de , Nantes Karoline S. , Ferreira Ana L. H. K. , Pereira Márcio C. , Mattoso Luiz H. C. , Faria Ronaldo C. , Afonso André S.
Published: November 2023

Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is an essential analyte for detecting neurodegenerative diseases and inflammatory processes and plays a crucial role in pharmaceuticals, the food industry, and environmental monitoring. However, conventional H2O2 detection methods have drawbacks such as lengthy analysis times, high costs, and bulky equipment. Non-enzymatic sensors have emerged as promising alternatives to overcome these limitations. In this research, we introduce a simple, portable, and cost-effective non-enzymatic sensor that uses carbon black (CB) and silver nanoparticle-modified δ-FeOOH (Ag/δ-FeOOH) integrated into a disposable electrochemical cell (DCell). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) confirmed successful CB and Ag/δ-FeOOH immobilization on the DCell working electrode. Electrochemical investigations revealed that the DCell-CB//Ag/δ-FeOOH sensor exhibited an approximately twofold higher apparent heterogeneous electron transfer rate constant than the DCell-Ag/δ-FeOOH sensor, capitalizing on CB’s advantages. Moreover, the sensor displayed an excellent electrochemical response for H2O2 reduction, boasting a low detection limit of 22 µM and a high analytical sensitivity of 214 μA mM−1 cm−2. Notably, the DCell-CB//Ag/δ-FeOOH sensor exhibited outstanding selectivity for H2O2 detection, even in potential interferents such as dopamine, uric acid, and ascorbic acid. Furthermore, the sensor has the right qualities for monitoring H2O2 in complex biological samples, as evidenced by H2O2 recoveries ranging from 92% to 103% in 10% fetal bovine serum. These findings underscore the considerable potential of the DCell-CB//Ag/δ-FeOOH sensor for precise and reliable H2O2 monitoring in various biomedical and environmental applications.
Study on Lifetime Decline Prediction of Lithium-Ion Capacitors
Authors: Cui Shuhui , Riaz Saleem , Wang Kai
Published: November 2023

With their high-energy density, high-power density, long life, and low self-discharge, lithium-ion capacitors are a novel form of electrochemical energy storage devices which are extensively utilized in electric vehicles, energy storage systems, and portable electronic gadgets. Li-ion capacitor aging mechanisms and life prediction techniques, however, continue to be active research areas. This paper examines the aging process for Li-ion batteries, covering the alterations in cell composition, the effect of the electrode charge state, temperature effects, and electrolyte deterioration. Additionally, this research offers approaches for predicting the lifespan of lithium-ion batteries, including those based on physical models, machine learning, and artificial intelligence. In this work, cycle life testing techniques are also discussed, including accelerated aging experiments for lithium-ion capacitors. The paper concludes by discussing future directions for the creation of aging mechanisms and lithium-ion capacitor life prediction techniques.
Test and Analysis of the Heat Exchanger for Small Ocean Thermal Energy Power Generation Devices
Authors: Wu Xiao , Wang Xiangnan , Wang Bingzhen
Published: November 2023

The application of ocean thermal energy conversion is an effective method to extend underwater vehicles’ running times and operating ranges, and the solid–liquid phase transition of the phase change material (PCM) in the heat exchanger is a key process for underwater vehicles to collect ocean thermal energy. This study proposes a heat exchanger structure for a small-size thermal energy power generation device and establishes the heat transfer model for the heat exchanger. Simulations were conducted considering convective heat transfer, and the obtained results demonstrated the feasibility of the designed structure. A prototype of the heat exchanger was developed, and physical experiments were conducted to validate the performance of the prototype. The results show that the melting process of the heat exchanger can be completed within 6 to 12 h, the solidification process can be completed within 3 to 7 h, and the heat transfer time decreases with the increase in temperature difference, verifying the compatibility with the underwater vehicles’ working patterns. Moreover, the heat exchanger could theoretically extend their lifetime. The results can provide a reference for the structural design and optimization of the heat exchanger for small ocean thermal energy power generation devices in the future.
Decentralized Smart Grid Stability Modeling with Machine Learning
Authors: Franović Borna , Baressi Šegota Sandi , Anđelić Nikola , Car Zlatan
Published: November 2023

Predicting the stability of a Decentralized Smart Grid is key to the control of such systems. One of the key aspects that is necessary when observing the control of DSG systems is the need for rapid control. Due to this, the application of AI-based machine learning (ML) algorithms may be key to achieving a quick and precise stability prediction. In this paper, the authors utilize four algorithms—a multilayer perceptron (MLP), extreme gradient boosting (XGB), support vector machines (SVMs), and genetic programming (GP). A public dataset containing 30,000 points was used, with inputs consisting of τ—the time needed for a grid participant to adjust consumption/generation, p—generated power, and γ—the price elasticity coefficient for four grid elements; and outputs consisting of stab—the eigenvalue of stability and stabf, the categorical stability of the system. The system was modeled using the aforementioned methods as a regression model (targeting stab) and a classification model (targeting stabf). Modeling was performed with and without the τ values due to their low correlation. The best results were achieved with the XGB algorithm for classification, with and without the τ values as inputs—indicating them as being unnecessary.
Towards Carbon Neutrality and Circular Economy in the Glass Industry by Using the Production Decision Model
Authors: Hsieh Chu-Lun , Tsai Wen-Hsien
Published: November 2023

In the modern age, where global warming is intensifying year by year, carbon reduction has long been an issue that countries all over the world must pay attention to. Therefore, governments have established a carbon tax and trading system to control the total carbon emissions of each country. According to the European Container Glass Federation (FEVE), every 10% recycled waste glass can reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 5%. Recycling waste glass will not only save the cost of raw materials but also make a significant contribution to sustainable development. This study uses the circular economy concept in the glass industry to recycle waste glass. It combines activity-based costing (ABC) and the Theory of Constraints (TOCs) to establish a production decision-making model, including carbon tax and trading. The objectives of this study are to solve the problem through mathematical programming to explore the impact of the carbon tax and carbon rights cost on corporate profits and to provide the government with the results as a reference for establishing a carbon tax system.
Assessing Precipitation Redistribution and Hydro-Chemical Dynamics in a High-Elevation Evergreen Broad-Leaved Forest
Authors: Dai Shiyu , Kitudom Nawatbhrist , Miao Xue , Ge Hailong , Zheng Li , Gong Hede
Published: November 2023

Forest water dynamics and hydro-chemical characteristics are essential for understanding forest hydrology and ecological processes. Yet, such understanding is limited by a lack of long-term monitoring data and observations from specialized forest ecosystems such as those from high elevation. Here, we analyze the precipitation redistribution including interception, stemflow, and throughfall and hydro-chemical characteristics by using a 15 year (2005–2019) precipitation dataset in a high elevation, evergreen broad-leaved forest in Southwest China. The forest experienced an obvious seasonal variation in precipitation with a monthly average of 117.31 ± 91.21 mm. The precipitation redistribution was influenced by precipitation intensity and leaf area index and differed inter-annually and intra-annually, with a general pattern: throughfall > canopy interception > stemflow. Throughfall rate increased significantly from 2015 to 2019 after experiencing the January 2015 snowstorm. The majority of water within the study site was retained in the soil and apoplastic materials. The primary means of water output was evapotranspiration, with minimal surface runoff. Quality of surface water was affected by the weathering of rocks, resulting in a lower pH than that of atmospheric precipitation. During the rainy season, elemental Ca and Mg showed negative correlation with precipitation due to plant mediation. The other elements, pH, total dissolved solids, precipitation, air temperature, and water temperature showed different degrees of correlation with each other. Overall, while the water balance fluctuated over the past 15 years, the water-holding capacity remained relatively stable. Alkali cations such as Ca2+, Mg2+, and K+ in the water body showed a decreasing trend during 2005–2019, which is a potential threat to ecological stability.
Nematofauna of the Natural Park “Devil’s Town”
Authors: Oro Violeta , Pisinov Boris , Trkulja Nenad , Stanisavljevic Rade , Belosevic Svetlana , Tabakovic Marijenka , Sekulic Zoran
Published: November 2023

“Devil’s Town” is a natural park dominated by broadleaf deciduous trees, and made up of two rare natural phenomena in the world: earthen statues, as specific forms of relief, and two springs of highly acidic water with high mineralization. Devil’s Town is a “biodiversity star” with a unique ambient, flora, fauna, and microbiome. The research aimed to: investigate the concentration of chemical parameters in the soil of the natural park, identify nematodes that can survive in extreme conditions, explore feeding habits of nematodes, and infer phylogenetic relationships of nematodes based on 28S rRNA sequences. Soil samples were collected from two sites, designated Soil under vegetation and Saxon mine soil, from which nematodes were discovered. Phylogenetic analyses were performed with 28S rRNA gene primers, using Maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference. The presence of minerals and heavy metals, combined with high acidity created extreme environmental conditions in which specific nematode species can survive. These circumstances favored fast-moving species with teeth and spears, such as mononchids and dorylaimids, enabling them to adopt predatory feeding behavior. In contrast, Acrobeloides, Prismatolaimus, Rhabditis spp. etc., are saprobionts adapted to specific chemical pollutants, and they tolerate high levels of Pb, Zn, Fe, Cu, Cd and As.
The Updated Scope of Genealogy
Authors: Leoussi Athena
Published: November 2023

Our journal, Genealogy (https://www [...]
Genome-Wide Identification and Preliminary Functional Analysis of BAM (β-Amylase) Gene Family in Upland Cotton
Authors: Yang Yanlong , Sun Fenglei , Wang Penglong , Yusuyin Mayila , Kuerban Wumaierjiang , Lai Chengxia , Li Chunping , Ma Jun , Xiao Fei
Published: November 2023

The β-amylase (BAM) gene family encodes important enzymes that catalyze the conversion of starch to maltose in various biological processes of plants and play essential roles in regulating the growth and development of multiple plants. So far, BAMs have been extensively studied in Arabidopsis thaliana (A. thaliana). However, the characteristics of the BAM gene family in the crucial economic crop, cotton, have not been reported. In this study, 27 GhBAM genes in the genome of Gossypium hirsutum L (G. hirsutum) were identified by genome-wide identification, and they were divided into three groups according to sequence similarity and phylogenetic relationship. The gene structure, chromosome distribution, and collinearity of all GhBAM genes identified in the genome of G. hirsutum were analyzed. Further sequence alignment of the core domain of glucosyl hydrolase showed that all GhBAM family genes had the glycosyl hydrolase family 14 domain. We identified the BAM gene GhBAM7 and preliminarily investigated its function by transcriptional sequencing analysis, qRT-PCR, and subcellular localization. These results suggested that the GhBAM7 gene may influence fiber strength during fiber development. This systematic analysis provides new insight into the transcriptional characteristics of BAM genes in G. hirsutum. It may lay the foundation for further study of the function of these genes.
The Basic/Helix-Loop-Helix Transcription Factor Family Gene RcbHLH112 Is a Susceptibility Gene in Gray Mould Resistance of Rose (Rosa Chinensis)
Authors: Ding Chao , Gao Junzhao , Zhang Shiya , Jiang Ning , Su Dongtao , Huang Xinzheng , Zhang Zhao
Published: November 2023

The basic/helix–loop–helix (bHLH) family is a major family of transcription factors in plants. Although it has been reported that bHLH plays a defensive role against pathogen infection in plants, there is no comprehensive study on the bHLH-related defence response in rose (Rosa sp.). In this study, a genome-wide analysis of bHLH family genes (RcbHLHs) in rose was carried out, including their phylogenetic relationships, gene structure, chromosome localization and collinearity analysis. Via phylogenetic analysis, a total of 121 RcbHLH genes in the rose genome were divided into 21 sub-groups. These RcbHLHs are unevenly distributed in all 7 chromosomes of rose. The occurrence of gene duplication events indicates that whole-genome duplication and segmental duplication may play a key role in gene duplication. Ratios of non-synonymous to synonymous mutation frequency (Ka/Ks) analysis showed that the replicated RcbHLH genes mainly underwent purification selection, and their functional differentiation was limited. Gene expression analysis showed that 46 RcbHLHs were differentially expressed in rose petals upon B. cinerea infection. It is speculated that these RcbHLHs are candidate genes that regulate the response of rose plants to B. cinerea infection. Virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) confirmed that RcbHLH112 in rose is a susceptibility factor for infection with B. cinerea. This study provides useful information for further study of the functions of the rose bHLH gene family.
Lung Inflammation Signature in Post-COVID-19 TB Patients
Authors: Shepelkova Galina S. , Evstifeev Vladimir V. , Berezovskiy Yuriy S. , Tarasov Ruslan V. , Bagirov Mamed A. , Yeremeev Vladimir V.
Published: November 2023

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a leading cause of infectious disease mortality worldwide, despite the COVID-19 pandemic. The mechanisms by which SARS-CoV-2 affects tuberculosis progression have not yet been established. Here, we compared the level of inflammation in the wall of the tuberculoma and in the parenchymal lung tissue of 30 patients diagnosed with tuberculoma without a history of COVID-19 and 30 patients diagnosed with tuberculoma 3 months after COVID-19. We also characterized TB activity in these patients using a panel of TB-associated miRNAs. Histopathological changes were examined in the resection material, and the expression level of cytokine/chemokine genes was determined by qRT-PCR. In patients with a history of COVID-19, the histological data obtained suggested activation of tuberculosis. In the same group of patients, as opposed to those without a history of COVID-19, equally high levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines/chemokines were expressed both in the tuberculoma wall and in the periphery of the resected specimen. A full set of miRNAs (miR-191, miR-193a, miR-222, miR-223, miR-155, miR-26a, and miR-150) were downregulated in the sera of patients with TB and active COVID-19 co-infection compared to controls. Our observations indicate signs of tuberculosis activation resulting from COVID-19 infection.
Elucidating the Role of Honey Bees as Biomonitors in Environmental Health Research
Authors: Mair Katharina Sophia , Irrgeher Johanna , Haluza Daniela
Published: November 2023

Recently, the One Health concept, which recognizes the interconnectedness of environmental, animal, and human health, has gained popularity. To collect data on environmental pollutants potentially harmful to human health over time, researchers often turn to natural organisms known as biomonitors. Honey bees, in particular, prove to be exceptionally valuable biomonitors due to their capacity to accumulate pollutants from the air, soil, and water within a specific radius during their foraging trips. This systematic literature review summarizes the previous application of the bee species Apis mellifera in pollutant monitoring in articles published during the period of 2010–2020. Nineteen studies were included in this systematic literature review. Of these studies, the majority (n = 15) focused on the detection of heavy metals in honey bees and beehive products, while 4 studies focused on air pollution by polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons or particulate matter. The matrix most often applied was the whole honey bee. The included studies demonstrated that honey bees and hive products deliver quantitative and qualitative information about specific pollutants. In this regard, the whole honey bee was found to be the most reliable biomonitor. We found that the included studies differed in design and the methods used. Standardized studies could foster a more consistent interpretation of the levels detected in beehive matrices from an environmental health perspective.