bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Retracement Ground Pressure Appearance and Control of the Working Face under the Overlying Residual Pillar: A Case Study
Authors: Zhang Yongqiang , Wang Xiangyu , Zhang Feiteng , Li Menglong , Wang Guanghui , Chen Dingchao , Li Guanjun , Zhao Xiangqian
Published: February 2023

On the working face below shallow and close coal seams, there are residual pillars. The mine’s ability to operate safely is constrained by the coal pillars’ vulnerability to sudden instability and powerful ground pressure disasters during withdrawal. This paper uses the 31,106 working face of the Huoluowan coal mine as its research backdrop and employs field observation, theoretical analysis, and numerical simulation to examine the strong dynamic load mechanism of the overlying coal pillars. According to the analysis, the residual pillar’s stress diffusion angle is 29 degrees after mining the working face above it, which has an impact on the main roof’s stability above the working face’s retracement roadway. The main roof is impacted by the excavation disturbance and the remaining pillars during the working face’s final mining phase, displaying a complex stress superposition state. The retracement roadway is significantly deformed as a result of the plastic zone of the surrounding rock changing from small-scale damage to extensive damage. The proposed “hydraulic roof cutting + reinforcement support” prevention technology is based on the prevention idea of weakening important rock strata, changing the stress transmission path, and strengthening adjacent rock. Field testing shows how hydraulic fracturing reinforces the roof structure, lessens the heavy dynamic load on the supporting pillars of overlying residual coal, reduces rock deformation in the retracement roadway, and ensures the stability of the working face during withdrawal. The study’s findings are significant for the secure removal of a working face under similar circumstances.
Fractional Order PID Optimal Control Method of Regional Load Frequency Containing Pumped Storage Plants
Authors: Gong Xundong , Yang Kejun , Dong Xiaofeng , Jiang Xuelei , Liu Dewen , Luo Zhao
Published: February 2023

The pumped storage unit has good adjustment characteristics of a fast power response and convenient start and stop, which provides support for the safe and stable operation of the power system. To this end, this paper proposes a fractional order PID (FOPID) optimization control method for the regional load frequency of pumped-storage power plants. Specifically, based on IEEE standards, this paper established a single-region model of pumped storage. Then, a fractional order PID (FOPID) controller was designed, and the parameters of the controller were optimized via using the chaos particle swarm optimization (CPSO) algorithm. The effectiveness of the proposed method is verified by example simulation in the two-zone model of the pumped storage based on IEEE standards. The results of the example show that the proposed method exhibits stronger robustness and stability in the regional load frequency control.
A Low Q Three-Phase Series Resonant Converter for PV Applications
Authors: Kalathy Abirami , Laha Arpan , Pahlevani Majid , Jain Praveen
Published: February 2023

In this paper, a soft-switched three-phase resonant converter with a low quality factor (Q) design is proposed for Photovoltaic (PV) energy harvesting systems with a very wide range of operating conditions. Due to the low quality factor (Q ≤ 1), the voltage stress across the capacitors is drastically reduced. However, a major challenge of using a low Q design is the wide switching frequency range required for operation over a wide range of load and input conditions. In order to reduce the switching frequency range, this paper introduces a hybrid modulation technique employing asymmetric pulse width modulation (APWM) along with variable frequency modulation. The proposed modulation scheme also substantially extends the soft-switching range of the converter from full-load upto 10–35% load condition over a wide range of line voltages. To sustain soft-switching in the entire operating region of the converter, the converter is operated in a hybrid structure with single-phase and burst modes at light load conditions. A comprehensive time-domain analysis of the proposed converter is presented, which greatly improves accuracy over conventional frequency-domain modeling. Experimental results from a 1 kW prototype are presented to verify the performance of the converter and validate the theoretical analysis.
Electrical Event Detection and Monitoring Data Storage from Wide Area Measurement System
Authors: Parede Vinicius Tertulino , Aoki Alexandre Rasi , Teixeira Mateus Duarte , Fernandes Thelma S. Piazza , Barreto Nathan Elias Maruch , Grando Flavio Lori , da Silva Vanderlei Aparecido , Guerra Fabio Alessandro , Ramos Milton Pires , da Costa Clayton Hilgemberg , Mulinari Bruna Machado , Lambert-Torres Germano , de Almeida Ricardo Rodrigues , Rodrigues Rafael , Müller Junior Victor Frederico , dos Santos André Katayama
Published: February 2023

Synchronized phasor measurement systems are being widely used around the world and have become essential elements in the evolution of the operation of large electrical power systems (EPS). These systems, called Phasor Measurement Units (PMUs), are capable of recording and communicating dynamic data from the EPSs in a synchronized way by GPS and with a high sampling rate, generate a huge set of data that, among many applications, has the capacity to detect events. In this way, this work presents a data management system architecture applied to a real PMU system located in the state of Paraná, Brazil that detects and storages events using principal component analysis and Pearson correlation. This method can detect and store electrical events that occurred during the operation of the national interconnected system of Brazil with good results.
Acknowledgment to the Reviewers of Energies in 2022 Part II
Authors:   Energies Editorial Office
Published: February 2023

High-quality academic publishing is built on rigorous peer review [...]
Optimal Transmission Expansion Planning with Long-Term Solar Photovoltaic Generation Forecast
Authors: Somchit Siripat , Thongbouasy Palamy , Srithapon Chitchai , Chatthaworn Rongrit
Published: February 2023

Solar PhotoVoltaics (PV) integration into the electricity grids significantly increases the complexity of Transmission Expansion Planning (TEP) because solar PV power generation is uncertain and difficult to predict. Therefore, this paper proposes the optimal planning method for transmission expansion combined with uncertain solar PV generation. The problem of uncertain solar PV generation is solved by using Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) for forecasting solar radiation with high accuracy. The objective function is to minimize total system cost, including the investment cost of new transmission lines and the operating cost of power generation. The optimal TEP problem is solved by the Binary Differential Evolution (BDE) algorithm. To investigate and demonstrate the performance of the proposed method, the IEEE 24-bus system and solar radiation data in Thailand are selected as a study case for TEP. The MATPOWER program written in MATLAB software is used for solving optimal power flow problems. Simulation results show that the proposed optimal TEP method combined with forecasting solar PV power generation using the LSTM can reduce the total system cost of the transmission expansion by 9.12% compared with the cost obtained by the TEP using solar radiation from statistical data.
What Promotes Natural Forest Protection and Restoration? Insights from the Perspective of Multiple Parties
Authors: Ke Jinkai , Sun Ruolin , Ma Yifei , Zhang Caihong
Published: February 2023

The natural forest protection and restoration (NFPR) system is imperfect due to contradictions between the objectives of natural forest protection and the reality of situations, outdated cultivation concepts, conflicting interests among participating parties, and the lack of regulation guarantees and assessment criteria. These problems are not only common in China but also in international forest protection. As the NFPR system is more focused on the protection of natural forests, the level of natural forest restoration in China has been poor, with low natural forest quality and forest productivity. At the same time, the value of natural forest ecosystem services does not match the demand of farmers, forest management, and other multiple participating parties. As a result, except for the government, other multiple parties lack the intrinsic motivation to participate in NFPR, ultimately forming a sustainable management dilemma. Under the institutional analysis and development (IAD) framework, the objective of this research was to explore the influencing factors and outcomes of the participation of multiple parties in NFPR and to construct a multiple parties’ participation mechanism for solving this dilemma. This research found that among external variables, multiple parties’ characteristics, biophysical conditions, attributes of community, and rules-in-use jointly influence and constitute the driving mechanism of multiple parties’ participation in NFPR. The rules-in-use directly impact the participation action scenario and regulate the other three external variables. Various factors and mechanisms in NFPR interact in the action space and produce outcomes that create positive incentives for each external variable, thus promoting the whole mechanism to achieve a virtuous cycle of sustainable management. This study provides a theoretical contribution to understanding the behavior of multiple parties participating in NFPR.
Genetic Diversity and Differentiation of Chinese Fir around Karst Landform in Guangxi
Authors: Li Kuipeng , Chen Shichang , Chen Xiaoming , Lan Xiao , Huang Kaiyong
Published: February 2023

The karst geo-ecosystems are fragile environments. The largest karst region in the world is located in southwestern China, within which the Guangxi province is one of the main areas. Chinese fir (Cunninghamia lanceolata (Lamb.) Hook.), an evergreen species, is an important fast-growing timber tree in southern China. In the present study, we examined the genetic diversity and spatial genetic differentiation of Chinese fir in sampling localities around the karst landform region of Guangxi by genotyping 330 individuals from 11 sampling localities with 22 novel polymorphic microsatellite loci. High levels of gene flow have homogenized Chinese fir in Rongshui, Nandan, and Tiane sites, which are speculated to be the primary center of gene exchange and diversity for Chinese fir around the karst landform in Guangxi. Significant isolation by distance pattern was found among nine sampling localities. A moderate level of genetic differentiation (FST = 0.089, Dest = 0.139) between sampling localities was detected. Structure analysis divided Chinese fir into three subgroups (K = 3). With higher differentiation and less genetic variation than in the central population, marginal populations of Cangwu and Pubei were identified in the south of the karst landform. An effective conservation strategy focusing on the maintenance of genetic variation for marginal populations of the species was proposed.
Seasonal Dynamics and Influencing Factors of Litterfall Production and Carbon Input in Typical Forest Community Types in Lushan Mountain, China
Authors: Qiu Lingbo , Xiao Tingqi , Bai Tianjun , Mo Xingyue , Huang Jiahui , Deng Wenping , Liu Yuanqiu
Published: February 2023

Litterfall is an important part of the process of nutrient circulation and energy flow in forest ecosystems. Mountain forests are strongly eroded by running water in that the surface soil is thinner, and the terrain is complex and diverse. They are more sensitive to climate change, which will affect the ecological processes and carbon sink functions of forest ecosystems. Taking Lushan Mountain as an example, we studied the dynamic characteristics of litterfall components, seasonal changes in carbon input and the influencing factors of typical forest communities in the subtropics. The results showed that the total annual average litterfall components of evergreen broad-leaved forest (EBF) > artificial coniferous forest (ACF) > deciduous broad-leaved forest (DBF) > renew young forest (RYF), and that leaf litterfall is the first productivity in the litterfall components, and the peak of litterfall is mainly concentrated in spring and autumn, showing a single- or double-peaked change pattern. There was a linear relationship between the components of litterfall in the four forest communities and the stand factor, but the correlation degree R2 was small. Overall, the results showed that the total amount of litterfall in the four forest communities was affected by canopy density and stand density. Light, temperature and water at different altitudes had different effects on the amount of litterfall, with excessive temperatures at lower altitudes likely to limit forest growth and development under adequate light and water, and the opposite was true at higher altitudes. The results of Pearson correlation analysis showed that EBF and DBF were negatively correlated with rainfall, that ACF and RYF were negatively correlated with temperature and rainfall, and that wind speed was positively correlated. The average annual carbon input size of the four forest communities was EBF > ACF > RYF > DBF, which may be related to environmental conditions and vegetation types, and the seasonal differences were arranged in order of spring > autumn > summer > winter. It can be seen that, considering performance under future climate change, EBF is more conducive to nutrient input and has good soil fertility maintenance ability.
Looking for Signatures of AGN Feedback in Radio-Quiet AGN
Authors: Kharb Preeti , Silpa Sasikumar
Published: February 2023

In this article, we discuss the state of “AGN feedback” in radio-quiet (RQ) AGN. This study involves heterogeneous samples of nearby Seyfert and LINER galaxies as well as quasi-stellar objects (QSOs) that have been observed at low radio frequencies (few ∼100 MHz) with the upgraded Giant Meterwave Radio Telescope (GMRT) and ∼GHz frequencies with the Karl G. Jansky Very Large Array (VLA) and Very Long Baseline Array (VLBA). These multi-frequency, multi-resolution observations detect a range of arcsecond-scale radio spectral indices that are consistent with the presence of multiple contributors including starburst winds and AGN jets or winds; steep spectrum “relic” emission is observed as well. Polarization-sensitive data from the VLA and GMRT suggest that the radio outflows are stratified (e.g., in IIIZw2, Mrk231); distinct polarization signatures suggest that there could either be a “spine + sheath” structure in the radio outflow, or there could be a “jet + wind” structure. Similar nested biconical outflows can also explain the VLBA and SDSS emission-line data in the KISSR sample of double-peaked emission-line Seyfert and LINER galaxies. Furthermore, the modeling of the emission-lines with plasma modeling codes such as MAPPINGS indicates that parsec-scale jets and winds in these sources can disturb or move the narrow-line region (NLR) gas clouds via the “shock + precursor” mechanism. Apart from the presence of “relic” emission, several Seyfert and LINER galaxies show clear morphological signatures of episodic jet activity. In one such source, NGC2639, at least four distinct episodes of jets are observed, the largest one of which was only detectable at 735 MHz with the GMRT. Additionally, a ∼6 kpc hole in the CO molecular gas along with a dearth of young stars in the center of its host galaxy is observed. Multiple jet episodes on the 10–100 parsec scales and a ∼10 parsec hole in the molecular gas is also observed in the Seyfert galaxy NGC4051. This suggests a link between episodic jet activity in RQ AGN and “AGN feedback” influencing the evolution of their host galaxies. However, a similar simple relationship between radio outflows and molecular gas mass is not observed in the Palomar–Green (PG) QSO sample, indicating that “AGN feedback” is a complex phenomenon in RQ AGN. “AGN feedback” must occur through the local impact of recurring multi-component outflows in RQ AGN. However, global feedback signatures on their host galaxy properties are not always readily evident.
Computational Prediction of Protein Intrinsically Disordered Region Related Interactions and Functions
Authors: Han Bingqing , Ren Chongjiao , Wang Wenda , Li Jiashan , Gong Xinqi
Published: February 2023

Intrinsically Disordered Proteins (IDPs) and Regions (IDRs) exist widely. Although without well-defined structures, they participate in many important biological processes. In addition, they are also widely related to human diseases and have become potential targets in drug discovery. However, there is a big gap between the experimental annotations related to IDPs/IDRs and their actual number. In recent decades, the computational methods related to IDPs/IDRs have been developed vigorously, including predicting IDPs/IDRs, the binding modes of IDPs/IDRs, the binding sites of IDPs/IDRs, and the molecular functions of IDPs/IDRs according to different tasks. In view of the correlation between these predictors, we have reviewed these prediction methods uniformly for the first time, summarized their computational methods and predictive performance, and discussed some problems and perspectives.
Tuberous Sclerosis, Type II Diabetes Mellitus and the PI3K/AKT/mTOR Signaling Pathways—Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Jurca Claudia Maria , Kozma Kinga , Petchesi Codruta Diana , Zaha Dana Carmen , Magyar Ioan , Munteanu Mihai , Faur Lucian , Jurca Aurora , Bembea Dan , Severin Emilia , Jurca Alexandru Daniel
Published: February 2023

Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a rare autosomal dominant neurocutaneous syndrome. It is manifested mainly in cutaneous lesions, epilepsy and the emergence of hamartomas in several tissues and organs. The disease sets in due to mutations in two tumor suppressor genes: TSC1 and TSC2. The authors present the case of a 33-year-old female patient registered with the Bihor County Regional Center of Medical Genetics (RCMG) since 2021 with a TSC diagnosis. She was diagnosed with epilepsy at eight months old. At 18 years old she was diagnosed with tuberous sclerosis and was referred to the neurology department. Since 2013 she has been registered with the department for diabetes and nutritional diseases with a type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) diagnosis. The clinical examination revealed: growth delay, obesity, facial angiofibromas, sebaceous adenomas, depigmented macules, papillomatous tumorlets in the thorax (bilateral) and neck, periungual fibroma in both lower limbs, frequent convulsive seizures; on a biological level, high glycemia and glycated hemoglobin levels. Brain MRI displayed a distinctive TS aspect with five bilateral hamartomatous subependymal nodules associating cortical/subcortical tubers with the frontal, temporal and occipital distribution. Molecular diagnosis showed a pathogenic variant in the TSC1 gene, exon 13, c.1270A>T (p. Arg424*). Current treatment targets diabetes (Metformin, Gliclazide and the GLP-1 analog semaglutide) and epilepsy (Carbamazepine and Clonazepam). This case report presents a rare association between type 2 diabetes mellitus and Tuberous Sclerosis Complex. We suggest that the diabetes medication Metformin may have positive effects on both the progression of the tumor associated with TSC and the seizures specific to TSC and we assume that the association of TSC and T2DM in the presented cases is accidental, as there are no similar cases reported in the literature.
Genetic Modifiers of Non-Penetrance and RNA Expression Levels in PRPF31-Associated Retinitis Pigmentosa in a Danish Cohort
Authors: Lisbjerg Kristian , Grønskov Karen , Bertelsen Mette , Møller Lisbeth Birk , Kessel Line
Published: February 2023

(1) Background/aims: To examine potential genetic modifiers of disease penetrance in PRPF31-associated retinitis pigmentosa 11 (RP11). (2) Methods: Blood samples from individuals (n = 37) with PRPF31 variants believed to be disease-causing were used for molecular genetic testing and, in some cases (n = 23), also for mRNA expression analyses. Medical charts were used to establish if individuals were symptomatic (RP) or asymptomatic non-penetrant carriers (NPC). RNA expression levels of PRPF31 and CNOT3 were measured on peripheral whole blood using quantitative real-time PCR normalized to GAPDH. Copy number variation of minisatellite repeat element 1 (MSR1) was performed with DNA fragment analysis. (3) Results: mRNA expression analyses on 22 individuals (17 with RP and 5 non-penetrant carriers) revealed no statistically significant differences in PRPF31 or CNOT3 mRNA expression levels between individuals with RP and non-penetrant carriers. Among 37 individuals, we found that all three carriers of a 4-copy MSR1 sequence on their wild-type (WT) allele were non-penetrant carriers. However, copy number variation of MSR1 is not the sole determinant factor of non-penetrance, as not all non-penetrant carriers carried a 4-copy WT allele. A 4-copy MSR1 mutant allele was not associated with non-penetrance. (4) Conclusions: In this Danish cohort, a 4-copy MSR1 WT allele was associated with non-penetrance of retinitis pigmentosa caused by PRPF31 variants. The level of PRPF31 mRNA expression in peripheral whole blood was not a useful indicator of disease status.
Mouse Models of Musculocontractural Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome
Authors: Yoshizawa Takahiro , Kosho Tomoki
Published: February 2023

Musculocontractural Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (mcEDS) is a subtype of EDS caused by mutations in the gene for carbohydrate sulfotransferase 14 (CHST14) (mcEDS-CHST14) or dermatan sulfate epimerase (DSE) (mcEDS-DSE). These mutations induce loss of enzymatic activity in D4ST1 or DSE and disrupt dermatan sulfate (DS) biosynthesis. The depletion of DS causes the symptoms of mcEDS, such as multiple congenital malformations (e.g., adducted thumbs, clubfeet, and craniofacial characteristics) and progressive connective tissue fragility-related manifestations (e.g., recurrent dislocations, progressive talipes or spinal deformities, pneumothorax or pneumohemothorax, large subcutaneous hematomas, and/or diverticular perforation). Careful observations of patients and model animals are important to investigate pathophysiological mechanisms and therapies for the disorder. Some independent groups have investigated Chst14 gene-deleted (Chst14-/-) and Dse-/- mice as models of mcEDS-CHST14 and mcEDS-DSE, respectively. These mouse models exhibit similar phenotypes to patients with mcEDS, such as suppressed growth and skin fragility with deformation of the collagen fibrils. Mouse models of mcEDS-CHST14 also show thoracic kyphosis, hypotonia, and myopathy, which are typical complications of mcEDS. These findings suggest that the mouse models can be useful for research uncovering the pathophysiology of mcEDS and developing etiology-based therapy. In this review, we organize and compare the data of patients and model mice.
Whole-Genome Analysis Reveals the Dynamic Evolution of Holocentric Chromosomes in Satyrine Butterflies
Authors: Pazhenkova Elena A. , Lukhtanov Vladimir A.
Published: February 2023

Butterfly chromosomes are holocentric, i.e., lacking a localized centromere. Potentially, this can lead to rapid karyotypic evolution through chromosome fissions and fusions, since fragmented chromosomes retain kinetic activity, while fused chromosomes are not dicentric. However, the actual mechanisms of butterfly genome evolution are poorly understood. Here, we analyzed chromosome-scale genome assemblies to identify structural rearrangements between karyotypes of satyrine butterfly species. For the species pair Erebia ligea–Maniola jurtina, sharing the ancestral diploid karyotype 2n = 56 + ZW, we demonstrate a high level of chromosomal macrosynteny and nine inversions separating these species. We show that the formation of a karyotype with a low number of chromosomes (2n = 36 + ZW) in Erebia aethiops was based on ten fusions, including one autosome–sex chromosome fusion, resulting in a neo-Z chromosome. We also detected inversions on the Z sex chromosome that were differentially fixed between the species. We conclude that chromosomal evolution is dynamic in the satyrines, even in the lineage that preserves the ancestral chromosome number. We hypothesize that the exceptional role of Z chromosomes in speciation may be further enhanced by inversions and sex chromosome–autosome fusions. We argue that not only fusions/fissions but also inversions are drivers of the holocentromere-mediated mode of chromosomal speciation.
Arabidopsis ANAC102, Chloroplastic or Nucleocytosolic Localization?
Authors: Cresta Alessandro , D’Alessandro Stefano
Published: February 2023

ANAC102 is a transcription factor involved in stress response and brassinosteroids signaling, with circadian regulation controlled by phytochromes. ANAC102 has been proposed to have a role in downregulating chloroplast transcription, which may be very useful in reducing photosynthesis and chloroplast energy demand under stress conditions. However, its localization in the chloroplast has mainly been demonstrated by using constitutive promoters. In this work, we recapitulate the literature, clarify which are ANAC102 isoforms in Arabidopsis and analyze their expressions under control conditions and in response to stress. Based on our results, the most highly expressed ANAC102 isoform encodes for a nucleocytoplasmic protein and the N-terminal chloroplast-targeting peptide appears to be present only in Brassicaceae, and not involved in stress response.
Serum MicroRNAs as Predictors for HCV Progression and Response to Treatment in Pakistani Patients
Authors: Manzoor Sadia , Malik Imran Riaz , Jahan Shah , Sarwar Muhammad Bilal , Bashir Asma , Shams Sulaiman , Hussain Abrar
Published: February 2023

Hepatitis is one of the common liver diseases, imposing a heavy health burden worldwide. Acute hepatitis may develop into chronic hepatitis, progressing to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. In the present study, the expression of miRNAs was quantified by real-time PCR, such as miRNA-182, 122, 21, 150, 199, and 222. Along with the control group, HCV was divided into chronic, cirrhosis, and HCC groups. The treated group was also included after the successful treatment of HCV. Biochemical parameters, such as ALT, AST, ALP, bilirubin, viral load, and AFP (HCC), were also evaluated in all of the study groups. We compared the control and diseased groups; these parameters showed significant results (p = 0.000). The viral load was high in HCV but was not detected after treatment. miRNA-182 and miRNA-21 were overexpressed with disease progression, while the expression of miRNA-122 and miRNA-199 was increased compared with the control, but decreased in the cirrhosis stage compared with chronic and HCC. The expression of miRNA-150 was increased in all of the diseased groups compared with the control, but decreased compared with the chronic group. We compared the chronic and treated groups and then all of these miRNAs were down-regulated after treatment. These microRNAs could be used as potential biomarkers for diagnosing different stages of HCV.
Biodegradation of Microtoxic Phenylpropanoids (Phenylpropanoic Acid and Ibuprofen) by Bacteria and the Relevance for Their Removal from Wastewater Treatment Plants
Authors: Wittich Regina-Michaela , Haïdour Ali , Aguilar-Romero Inés , de la Torre-Zúñiga Jesús , van Dillewijn Pieter
Published: February 2023

The NSAID ibuprofen (2-(4-isobutylphenyl)propanoic acid) and the structurally related 3-phenylpropanoic acid (3PPA), are widely used pharmaceutical and personal care products (PPCPs) which enter municipal waste streams but whose relatively low rates of elimination by wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are leading to the contamination of aquatic resources. Here, we report the isolation of three bacterial strains from a municipal WWTP, which as a consortium are capable of mineralizing ibuprofen. These were identified as the Pseudomonas citronellolis species, termed RW422, RW423 and RW424, in which the first two of these isolates were shown to contain the catabolic ipf operon responsible for the first steps of ibuprofen mineralization. These ipf genes which are associated with plasmids could, experimentally, only be transferred between other Sphingomonadaceae species, such as from the ibuprofen degrading Sphingopyxis granuli RW412 to the dioxins degrading Rhizorhabdus wittichii RW1, generating RW421, whilst a transfer from the P. citronellolis isolates to R. wittichii RW1 was not observed. RW412 and its derivative, RW421, as well as the two-species consortium RW422/RW424, can also mineralize 3PPA. We show that IpfF can convert 3PPA to 3PPA-CoA; however, the growth of RW412 with 3PPA produces a major intermediate that was identified by NMR to be cinnamic acid. This and the identification of other minor products from 3PPA allows us to propose the major pathway used by RW412 to mineralize 3PPA. Altogether, the findings in this study highlight the importance of ipf genes, horizontal gene transfer, and alternative catabolic pathways in the bacterial populations of WWTPs to eliminate ibuprofen and 3PPA.
The Importance of Rock Mass Damage in the Kinematics of Landslides
Authors: Donati Davide , Stead Doug , Borgatti Lisa
Published: February 2023

The stability and kinematics of rock slopes are widely considered to be functions of lithological, structural, and environmental features. Conversely, slope damage features are often overlooked and considered as byproducts of slope deformation. This paper analyzes and discusses the potential role of slope damage, its time-dependent nature, and its control on both the stability of rock slopes and their kinematics. The analysis of several major landslides and unstable slopes, combined with a literature survey, shows that slope damage can play an important role in controlling short- and long-term slope stability. Seasonal and continuously active events cause permanent deformation within the slope due to the accumulation of slope damage features, including rock mass dilation and intact rock fracturing. Rock mass quality, lithology, and scale control the characteristics and complexity of slope damage, as well as the failure mechanism. The authors propose that the role of slope damage in slope kinematics should always be considered in slope stability analysis, and that an integrated characterization–monitoring–numerical modelling approach can enhance our understanding of slope damage, its evolution, and the controlling factors. Finally, it is emphasized that there is currently a lack of guidelines or frameworks for the quantitative assessment and classification of slope damage, which requires a multidisciplinary approach combining rock mechanics, geomorphology, engineering geology, remote sensing, and geophysics.
How COVID-19 Broke the Barriers Related to the Implementation of Telecare—Patients’ Experiences with a New form of Providing Health Services in Primary Health Care
Authors: Ciećko Weronika , Labunets Kinga , Wojnarowska Małgorzata , Bosek Dominika , Skwierawska Justyna , Bandurski Tomasz , Bandurska Ewa
Published: February 2023

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly contributed to accelerating the development of telemedicine and eHealth. The main aim of this study was to assess the attitudes of patients towards remote care implemented in general practice (GP) during the pandemic. Methods: The study was a pilot study conducted in March–April 2021, considering technical aspects of using teleconsultations, and evaluating the difficulties, advantages and disadvantages for patients. When assessing opinions, a simple Likert scale was used, where a value of 1 meant the worst possible assessment or strong disagreement and the upper value the best or full agreement of the respondent. Results: The study covered 408 respondents. Their biggest organizational challenge reaching GPs by telephone, regardless of the patients’ home location (p = 0.23698). Obtaining e-documents was not problematic but was rated as worse by men (p = 0.048295). Respondents rated the overall effectiveness of teleconsultations more highly if they could speak directly with a doctor (p = 0.0005). There were no differences in willingness to recommend teleconsultations based on gender (p = 0.2432), place of residence (p = 0.7878), age (p = 0.290355) or education (p = 0.9109), but people assessing the overall effectiveness of telemedicine more highly were more willing to recommend it (p = 0.000). Conclusions: Respondents assess teleconsultations in a differentiated way, noticing both positive and negative features of the remote form of providing health services.
Parental Factors Associated with Child or Adolescent Medication Adherence: A Systematic Review
Authors: Kalaman Clarisse Roswini , Ibrahim Norhayati , Shaker Vinorra , Cham Choy Qing , Ho Meng Chuan , Visvalingam Uma , Shahabuddin Farah Ahmad , Abd Rahman Fairuz Nazri , A Halim Mohd Radzi Tarmizi , Kaur Manveen , Azhar Fatin Liyana , Yahya Amira Najiha , Sham Rohana , Siau Ching Sin , Lee Kai Wei
Published: February 2023

Medication adherence, especially among children and adolescents with psychiatric disorders, is often seen as a major treatment challenge. The purpose of this study is to systematically review studies addressing specific aspects of parental factors that are positively or negatively associated with medication adherence among children and adolescents with psychiatric disorders. A systematic literature search of English language publications, from inception through December 2021, was conducted from PubMed, Scopus, and MEDLINE databases. This review has complied with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement guidelines. A total of 23 studies (77,188 participants) met inclusion criteria. Nonadherence rates ranged between 8% to 69%. Parents’ socioeconomic background, family living status and functioning, parents’ perception and attitude towards the importance of medication taking in treating psychiatric disorders, and parents’ mental health status are significant parental characteristics associated with medication adherence in children and adolescents with psychiatric disorders. In conclusion, by identifying specific parental characteristics related to the medication adherence of children and adolescents with psychiatric disorders, targeted interventions on parents could be developed to guide parents in improving their child’s medication adherence.
Optimism and Intolerance to Uncertainty May Mediate the Negative Effect of Discrimination on Mental Health in Migrant Population
Authors: Urzúa Alfonso , Baeza-Rivera María José , Caqueo-Urízar Alejandra , Henríquez Diego
Published: February 2023

(1) Background: Migration causes effects on the people who migrate and on the societies that receive them, which can be positive or negative, depending on the characteristics of the interaction. One negative effect is the emergence of mental health disorders associated with the presence of discrimination, a relationship for which there is abundant evidence, although there is less research on factors that may alter this effect. (2) Objective: To evaluate the possible mediating role of optimism and intolerance to uncertainty in the relationship between discrimination and mental health. (3) Method: Nine hundred and nineteen adult Colombian migrants residing in Chile, 49.5% were men and 50.5% women, ages from 18 to 65 years, were evaluated. The Discrimination Experience Scale, BDI-IA Inventory, BAI, LOT-R and the Intolerance to Uncertainty Scale were applied. The effects were estimated using structural equation modeling. (4) Results: A mediating effect of both dispositional optimism and intolerance to uncertainty on the relationship between discrimination and mental symptomatology was observed. (5) Conclusions: The impact on individual suffering and the social cost of mental health problems require investigating variables on the relationship between discrimination and mental health, including mediators of this relationship, which turn out to be central elements in the development of future strategies for the reduction of anxiety and depression symptoms.
The Impact of Environmental Regulation on Firm Performance: Evidence from the Pulp and Paper Industry in China
Authors: Ou Xu , Jiang Haiwei
Published: February 2023

In areas with serious pollution problems, the government designates a special emission limit (SEL) for pollution control and environmental protection in China. This paper examines the effects of chemical oxygen demand (COD) SEL on firms’ production activity and market performance in the pulp and paper industry in the Lake Tai area in China. Using firm-level data, we employ a difference-in-differences strategy and find that SEL has a negative impact on the production scale, profitability, and market size of the regulated firms, while showing no significant impact on firm exports. The heterogeneity tests suggest that the impact of SEL on production and market performance varies with firm ownership, firm size, and target market. The reallocation effect of production shifts extra production from exited firms to existing firms, which explains the expansion of production scale and market size for SOEs and large-sized regulated firms. Compared with the decline of production scale, the inventory alleviation effect reduces the negative impact of stricter environmental regulation on firm performance.
Heavy Metal Contamination in Leafy Vegetables Grown in Jazan Region of Saudi Arabia: Assessment of Possible Human Health Hazards
Authors: Najmi Asim , Albratty Mohammed , Al-Rajab Abdul Jabbar , Alhazmi Hassan A. , Javed Sadique A. , Ahsan Waquar , Rehman Zia ur , Hassani Rym , Alqahtani Saad S.
Published: February 2023

The food chain, through vegetable consumption, is considered to be an important route of heavy metal exposure. Therefore, in this study, heavy metal concentrations in leafy vegetables grown in the Jazan region of Saudi Arabia were assessed using an ICP-MS. Lettuce, radish, mint, parsley and jarjir (Arugula) were selected for study and subjected to digestion using HCl. The results indicated that the Fe level was highest in all vegetables, while jarjir was the most contaminated vegetable. However, no tested metal exceeded the maximum permissible limits set by the FAO/WHO and European Committee. The possible health hazards associated with the exposure to metal contaminants via vegetable consumption were evaluated by estimating target hazard quotient (THQ) values, and the results revealed that the vegetables grown in close proximity of Jazan city were the most contaminated and those in Darb the least. However, the daily intakes of all the tested metals were well below the corresponding oral reference doses (RfDs), and the THQ values were less than unity, suggesting that the vegetables grown in the studied region were safe and the heavy metal exposure via vegetable consumption was unlikely to cause adverse effects to the local inhabitants of the region.
myBeST—A Web-Based Survival Prognostic Tool for Women with Breast Cancer in Malaysia: Development Process and Preliminary Validation Study
Authors: Nik Ab Kadir Mohd Nasrullah , Mohd Hairon Suhaily , Yaacob Najib Majdi , Yusof Siti Norbayah , Musa Kamarul Imran , Yahya Maya Mazuwin , Mohd Isa Seoparjoo Azmel , Mamat Azlan Muhammad Hafizuddin , Ab Hadi Imi Sairi
Published: February 2023

Women with breast cancer are keen to know their predicted survival. We developed a new prognostic model for women with breast cancer in Malaysia. Using the model, this study aimed to design the user interface and develop the contents of a web-based prognostic tool for the care provider to convey survival estimates. We employed an iterative website development process which includes: (1) an initial development stage informed by reviewing existing tools and deliberation among breast surgeons and epidemiologists, (2) content validation and feedback by medical specialists, and (3) face validation and end-user feedback among medical officers. Several iterative prototypes were produced and improved based on the feedback. The experts (n = 8) highly agreed on the website content and predictors for survival with content validity indices ≥ 0.88. Users (n = 20) scored face validity indices of more than 0.90. They expressed favourable responses. The tool, named Malaysian Breast cancer Survival prognostic Tool (myBeST), is accessible online. The tool estimates an individualised five-year survival prediction probability. Accompanying contents were included to explain the tool’s aim, target user, and development process. The tool could act as an additional tool to provide evidence-based and personalised breast cancer outcomes.
Tailored Psychological Interventions to Manage Body Image: An Opinion Study on Breast Cancer Survivors
Authors: Sebri Valeria , Pravettoni Gabriella
Published: February 2023

Objective: Oncological care affects the body strongly, even some years after therapies. Body image, as the mental representation of one’s own body, is particularly affected by breast cancer, with a high level of dissatisfaction and negative perception. Literature has shown the effectiveness of various psychological interventions to promote body image in breast cancer survivors, dealing with inner sensations and related emotions and thoughts. The present opinion study presents BI issues and personalized psychological interventions to increase a positive BI in breast cancer survivors. Conclusions: Implementing specific and personalized psychological interventions tailored on BI, the characteristics of oncological journey and emotional and cognitive issues is fundamental. Directions for clinical practice are given.
How to Test the On-Ice Aerobic Capacity of Speed Skaters? An On-Ice Incremental Skating Test for Young Skaters
Authors: Kong Zhenxing , Zhang Hanyue , Zhang Mingyue , Jia Xiao , Yu Jingjing , Feng Junpeng , Zhang Shouwei
Published: February 2023

Aerobic capacity is important for speed skaters to achieve good results in middle–long distance events. The technical characteristics of speed skating cause intermittent blood flow blockage in the lower limbs. Therefore, an athlete’s aerobic capacity on ice may differ from that measured by cycling or running. Now, the on-ice aerobic capacity lacks methods for conducting aerobic capacity tests on ice. Objective: The objective of this study was to develop a method for measuring on-ice aerobic capacity for young athletes and to compare it with the VO2max test on cycling. Methods: This study established a test method for the on-ice aerobic capacity of young, high-level speed skaters with incremental load (on-ice incremental skating test, OIST) through expert interviews and literature review. In the first part, OIST was used to test the aerobic abilities of 65 youth professional speed skaters (51 males and 14 females) on ice and to explore the correlation with their specific performance. The second part compares the relationship between aerobic capacity on ice and aerobic capacity on bicycle of 18 young high-level male athletes. The third part establishes the regression formula of ice ventilation threshold heart rate. The OIST established in this study can evaluate the on-ice aerobic capacity of athletes from National Level and Level 1&2 in China. The athletes’ on-ice aerobic capacity indicators were significantly lower than those of the cycling test. However, the values of absolute VO2max and absolute ventilatory threshold had a high correlation (R = 0.532, p < 0.05; R = 0.584, p < 0.05). The regression formula of ventilatory threshold heart rate on ice = 0.921 × HRmax (Cycling test) −9.243. The OIST established in this study meets the characteristics and requirements of the VO2max measurement method. The OIST seems to be able to better evaluate the aerobic capacity of athletes skating on ice. The indicators of maximum oxygen uptake and ventilation threshold in OIST were significantly lower than those in the aerobic cycling test, but there was a good correlation. The aerobic cycling test can be used as an important selection index of the ice aerobic capacity of speed skaters. The regression formula will provide an important basis for coaches to accurately monitor the intensity of ice training.
A Comprehensive Assessment Protocol for Swallowing (CAPS): Paving the Way towards Computer-Aided Dysphagia Screening
Authors: Lim Hyo-Jung , Lai Derek Ka-Hei , So Bryan Pak-Hei , Yip Calvin Chi-Kong , Cheung Daphne Sze Ki , Cheung James Chung-Wai , Wong Duo Wai-Chi
Published: February 2023

Dysphagia is one of the most common problems among older adults, which might lead to aspiration pneumonia and eventual death. It calls for a feasible, reliable, and standardized screening or assessment method to prompt rehabilitation measures and mitigate the risks of dysphagia complications. Computer-aided screening using wearable technology could be the solution to the problem but is not clinically applicable because of the heterogeneity of assessment protocols. The aim of this paper is to formulate and unify a swallowing assessment protocol, named the Comprehensive Assessment Protocol for Swallowing (CAPS), by integrating existing protocols and standards. The protocol consists of two phases: the pre-test phase and the assessment phase. The pre-testing phase involves applying different texture or thickness levels of food/liquid and determining the required bolus volume for the subsequent assessment. The assessment phase involves dry (saliva) swallowing, wet swallowing of different food/liquid consistencies, and non-swallowing (e.g., yawning, coughing, speaking, etc.). The protocol is designed to train the swallowing/non-swallowing event classification that facilitates future long-term continuous monitoring and paves the way towards continuous dysphagia screening.
People Living with HIV and AIDS: Experiences towards Antiretroviral Therapy, Paradigm Changes, Coping, Stigma, and Discrimination—A Grounded Theory Study
Authors: Beichler Helmut , Kutalek Ruth , Dorner Thomas E.
Published: February 2023

Background: The experiences in coping with HIV/AIDS from people living with HIV (PLWH) in Austria, Munich, and Berlin regarding adherence, antiretroviral therapy (ART), stigmatization, and discrimination were the main focus of this study. Therapy adherence is the cornerstone for PLWH to reduce disease progression and increase life expectancy combined with a high quality of life. The experience of stigmatization and discrimination in different life situations and settings is still experienced today. Aims: We aimed to examine the subjective perspective of PLWH concerning living with, coping with, and managing HIV/AIDS in daily life. Methods: Grounded Theory Methodology (GTM) was used. Data collection was conducted with semi-structured face-to-face interviews with 25 participants. Data analysis was performed in three steps, open, axial, and selective coding. Results: Five categories emerged, which included the following: (1) fast coping with diagnosis, (2) psychosocial burden due to HIV, (3) ART as a necessity, (4) building trust in HIV disclosure, (5) stigmatization and discrimination are still existing. Conclusion: In conclusion, it can be said that it is not the disease itself that causes the greatest stress, but the process of coping with the diagnosis. Therapy, as well as lifelong adherence, is hardly worth mentioning today. Much more significant is currently still the burden of discrimination and stigmatization.