bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Proletarianization of Data Science
Authors: Steinhoff James
Published: January 2022

**Forthcoming (2022) in Digital Work in the Planetary Market. Edited by Mark Graham and Fabian Ferrari. MIT Press** This chapter shows that the data science labour force, while globally distributed, is predominantly tied to powerful firms concentrated in specific locales. In particular, I argue that the planetary data science labour force is increasingly created by and for powerful technology capital in the USA. The increasing efforts of large firms in producing their own bespoke labour force has implications for digital labour in general. From the perspective of capital, data science labour-power is a scarce commodity to be competed for. Around the world, efforts are thus being made to proletarianize data science labour-power; to increase its supply and decrease its value, while capturing a competitive share of it. Wider distribution of the skills to perform currently rewarding and well-remunerated digital labour is often positioned as a means to close the economic gap between the Global North and South, but the distribution of such skills is accompanied by their simplification and consequent devaluation. While the proletarianization of data science labour-power may make more data science jobs available outside the Global North, it will do so only insofar as it reduces the labour costs for big technology firms. Rather than the elevation of less-privileged labourers to the digital era, the proletarianization of data science labour-power suggests the coming degradation of a privileged type of labour to the status of precarious and poorly remunerated ghost work.
Towards a Political Economy of Synthetic Data: A Data-intensive Capitalism That is Not a Surveillance Capitalism?
Authors: Steinhoff James
Published: January 2022

Most data consists of the recorded actions of people. As new business models premised on the use of data-intensive technologies proliferate, so too does the collection of data via increasingly ubiquitous surveillance. Subsumed under the endless logic of capital accumulation, data collection, and thus surveillance, are expected to intensify. Companies are employing many methods to ensure their access to data such as encouraging “digital resignation” (Draper and Turow 2019). But what if data could be created from scratch? This is the dream driving the latest trend in AI: synthetic data, or data which is generated rather than collected. In this paper, I consider how synthetic data might reconfigure political economic power relations.
Adaptive Door Opening Control Algorithm of Bio-Inspired Mobile Manipulator Based on Synchronous Sensing
Authors: Wu Wenping , Liu Wansu
Published: January 2022

At present, the research of robot door opening method is basically realized by identifying the door handle through the synchronous sensing system on the premise that the bio-inspired mobile manipulator is located in front of the door. An adaptive door opening strategy of a bio-inspired mobile manipulator based on a synchronous sensing system is proposed. Firstly, the random delay distribution in clock synchronization technology is analyzed in detail, and its distribution is verified on the experimental platform of adjacent nodes. Based on the Gaussian distribution of random delay, the relative frequency offset and relative phase offset of adjacent nodes are calculated. The clock synchronization of network cable sensor nodes is realized. Secondly, based on the information data of synchronous sensing system, this article realizes target detection and tracking based on depth network. In addition, based on the sliding mode control theory, the dynamic model of the nonholonomic bio-inspired mobile manipulator is applied. Finally, a robust adaptive sliding mode control method for nonlinear systems with input gain uncertainty and unmatched uncertainty is proposed by combining adaptive backstepping with sliding mode control. By adding sliding mode control in the last step of adaptive backstepping, the uncertainty of the system is compensated, and the system trajectory is maintained on the specified sliding mode manifold. The tracking control and stability control of the nonholonomic bio-inspired mobile manipulator are simulated. The experimental and simulation results show that the control method proposed in this article is effective and feasible.
Efficiency of a Novel Multifunctional Corrosion Inhibitor Against Biofilms Developed on Carbon Steel
Authors: Tuck Benjamin , Leinecker Nadia , Watkin Elizabeth , Somers Anthony , Forsyth Maria , Machuca Laura L.
Published: January 2022

In natural environments, populations of microorganisms rapidly colonise surfaces forming biofilms. These sessile communities comprise a variety of species which contribute to biofouling and microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC), especially on metals. Species heterogeneity in natural systems confers higher tolerance to adverse conditions such as biocide treatment compared with single species laboratory simulations. Effective chemical treatments to combat recalcitrant biofilms are often dangerous to apply; both to operators and the environment, and face international embargoes. Today, there is a drive to exchange current toxic and environmentally hazardous biocides with less harmful compounds. One effective method of achieving this goal is to generate multi-functional compounds capable of tackling corrosion and biofilm formation simultaneously, thus reducing the number of compounds in dosing procedures. In a previous study, a novel corrosion inhibitor demonstrated biocidal effects against three marine isolates during the early stages of biofilm formation. The compound; CTA-4OHcinn, holds great promise as a multi-functional inhibitor, however its effect on complex, multi-species biofilms remains unknown. Here we evaluate CTA-4OHcinn biocidal capacity against multi-species biofilms developed from oilfield samples. Mature biofilms were developed and treated with 10 mM CTA-4OHcinn for 4 h. The effects of the compound were assessed using mean probable number (MPN), adenosine triphosphate (ATP) quantification, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). Results demonstrate that CTA-4OHcinn significantly reduces the viability of mature biofilms, supporting previous demonstrations on the secondary function of CTA-4OHcinn as a biocide. CLSM results further indicate that CTA-4OHcinn targets the cell membrane resulting in lysis. This finding complements the established corrosion inhibition function of CTA-4OHcinn, indicating the compound is a true multi-functional organic corrosion inhibitor.
Assessment of Aeolian Activity in the Bodélé Depression, Chad: A Dense Spatiotemporal Time Series From Landsat-8 and Sentinel-2 Data
Authors: Ali Eslam , Xu Wenbin , Xie Lei , Ding Xiaoli
Published: January 2022

There are several hotspots of dust production in the central Sahara, the Bodélé Depression (BD) in northern Chad is considered the largest source of aerosol dust worldwide, with the fastest Barchan dunes that migrate southwesterly. Less is known about the complex patterns of dune movement in the BD, especially on a short time scale. Time-series inversion of optical image cross-correlation (TSI-OICC) proved to be a valuable method for monitoring historical movements with low uncertainties, high spatial coverage, and dense temporal coverage. We leveraged ∼8 years of Landsat-8 and ∼6 years of Sentinel-2 data to capture the dune migration patterns at BD. We used TSI-OICC, creating four independent networks of offset maps from Landsat-8 and Sentinel-2 images, and forming three networks by fusing data from the two sensors. We depended on the multi spatial coherence estimated from Sentinel-1 interferograms to automatically discriminate between the active and stagnant regions, which is important for the postprocessing steps. We combined the data from the two sensors in areas of overlap to assess the performance of the fusion between two sensors in increasing the temporal scale of the observations. Our results suggest that dune migration at BD is subject to seasonal and multiyear variations that differed spatially across the dune field. Seasonal variations were observed with migration slowing during the summer months. We estimated the median for velocities belonging to the same season and calculated the seasonal sliding coefficient (SSC) representing the ratio between seasonal velocities. The median SSC reached a maximum value of ∼2 for winter/summer, while the ratios were ∼1.10 and ∼1.35 for winter/spring and winter/autumn, respectively. The seasonal variability of the temporal patterns was strongly supported by the wind observations. Between (1984–1998 and 1998–2007) and (1998–2007 and 2013–2021), decelerations in dune velocities were observed with percentages of ∼4 and ∼28%, respectively, and these decelerations were supported by a deceleration in wind velocities. Inversion of time series provides dense spatiotemporal monitoring of the dune activity. The fusion between two sensors allows condensing the temporal sampling up to a weekly scale especially for locations exposed to contamination of high cloud cover or dust.
Golden Eagle Occupancy Surveys and Monitoring Strategy in Coastal Southern California, United States
Authors: Wiens J. David , Bloom Peter H. , Madden Melanie C. , Kolar Patrick S. , Tracey Jeff A. , Fisher Robert N.
Published: January 2022

Golden eagles (Aquila chrysaetos) are of increasing conservation concern in western North America. Effective conservation measures for this wide-ranging, federally protected raptor species require monitoring frameworks that accommodate strong inference on the status of breeding populations across vast landscapes. We used a broad-scale sampling design to identify relationships between landscape conditions, detection rates, and site occupancy by territorial pairs of golden eagles in coastal southern California, United States. In 2016 and 2017, we surveyed 175 territory-sized sample sites (13.9-km2 randomly selected grid cells) up to four times each year and detected a pair of eagles at least once in 22 (12.6%) sites. The probability of detecting pairs of eagles varied substantially between years and declined with increasing amounts of forest cover at survey sites, which obscured observations of eagles during ground-based surveys. After accounting for variable detection, the mean estimate of expected site occupancy by eagle pairs was 0.156 (SE = 0.081). Site-level estimates of occupancy were greatest (>0.30) at sample sites with more rugged terrain conditions, <20% human development, and lower amounts of scrubland vegetation cover. The proportion of a sample site with open grassland or forest cover was not strongly correlated with occupancy. We estimated that approximately 16% of the 5,338-km2 sampling frame was used by resident pairs of golden eagles, corresponding to a sparsely distributed population of about 60 pairs (95% CI = 19 – 151 pairs). Our study provided baseline data for future surveys of golden eagles along with a widely applicable monitoring framework for identifying spatial conservation priorities in urbanizing landscapes.
m6A-mRNA Methylation Regulates Gene Expression and Programmable m6A Modification of Cellular RNAs With CRISPR-Cas13b in Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Gan Ying , Li Aolin , Liu Jun , Wang Xiaofei , Zhang Zhenan , Li Qinhan , Ye Xiongjun , Yao Lin , Zhang Qian
Published: January 2022

Background: N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is the most extensive messenger RNA modification. Despite recent advances in the biological roles of m6A, its role in the development and progression of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) remains unclear.

Methods: In this study, we gained the transcriptome-wide m6A profile and gene expression pattern in RCC and paired adjacent peritumoral tissues by meRIP-seq and RNA-seq. m6A modifications of mRNAs were validated by meRIP-qPCR in tissues, and targeted methylation or demethylation was validated by using a CRISPR-Cas13b-based tool in RCC cell lines.

Results: Our findings showed that there were 13,805 m6A peaks among 5,568 coding gene transcripts (mRNAs) in adjacent tissues and 24,730 m6A peaks among 6,866 mRNAs in tumor tissues. Furthermore, m6A modification sites were usually located in the coding sequences (CDS), and some near the start and stop codons. Gene Ontology analysis revealed that coding genes had differential N6-methyladenosine sites and were enriched in kidney development and cancer-related signaling pathways. We also found that different levels of m6A modifications could regulate gene expression.

Conclusion: In summary, our results provided evidence for studying the potential function of RNA m6A modification and m6A-mediated gene expression regulation in human RCC.
Molecular Basis for Global Incidence of Pemphigoid Diseases and Differences in Phenotypes
Authors: Ahmed A. Razzaque , Anwar Sarah , Reche Pedro A.
Published: January 2022

Pemphigoid (Pg) diseases are a group of potentially fatal autoimmune mucocutaneous diseases. They have different clinical phenotypes, involving only the skin or multiple mucous membranes. They occur globally and frequently affect the elderly. The common marker among all variants is the presence of autoantibodies targeting the dermal-epidermal or mucosal-submucosal junctions, or basement membrane zone (BMZ). Four target antigens in the BMZ were studied. These included BPAG1, BPAG2 and subunits of α6 and β4 human integrins. Our objective was to find a molecular basis for the global incidence of Pg diseases and a mechanism that will explain the vast differences in clinical phenotypes and outcomes. All the variants of Pg that were analyzed had a statistically significant association with HLA-DQβ1*03:01 in ten countries on four continents. This explains the reason for global incidence. Prediction models discovered multiple peptides in each of the four antigens that serve as T cell epitopes. These T cell epitopes were shown to bind to HLA-DQβ1*03:01. In addition, structure modelling demonstrated the peptide-HLA complex bound to the T cell receptor. These autoreactive T cells would stimulate B cells to produce specific anti-BMZ autoantibodies. Anti-BMZ autoantibodies with different specificities will produce different phenotypes, which will account for involvement of different tissues and organs in different molecules. The contribution this study makes is that it provides a molecular basis of why a similar disease occurs in different racial groups. Furthermore, it provides the basis for the production of autoantibodies with different specificities, which resultantly produces different phenotypes.
Patient Involvement in the Health Technology Assessment Process in Taiwan
Authors: Chen Kuei An , Huang Li Ying , Gau Churn Shiouh
Published: January 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic initially had a smaller impact on Taiwan than on most other industrialized countries. However, an outbreak in late April 2021 led to a sharp surge in cases from mid-May 2021. Patient involvement in the health technology assessment (HTA) process, however, was not much affected by this; virtual meetings were implemented. This descriptive paper presents an overview of patient involvement in the HTA process in Taiwan via the National Health Insurance Administration (NHIA) online submission platform, participation in appraisal committees, education programs, and cooperation with patients' organizations, and outlines its progress and challenges. The National Health Insurance Act, amended in 2013, protects patients' rights and invites them to voice their opinions, which are then presented to the relevant authority. Based on this act, various mechanisms have been developed to involve patients, caregivers, and patient organizations in both the HTA and the reimbursement process. Prior to the Pharmaceutical Benefit and Reimbursement Scheme (PBRS) Joint Committee meeting, the NHIA built an online platform that allows patients to submit their opinions, which are then incorporated into the HTA reports. The results are also discussed with patient representatives, following which the related documents are published on the NHIA website. From May 2015 to December 2020, 30 patients' insights were published before the PBRS Joint Committee meetings. Of these, 19 (63%) were related to oncology cases. In Taiwan, approaches to fostering patient engagement include the use of a platform for patients' and patients groups' input, among others. Although patient engagement is important for understanding the needs of the target patient population, challenges in ensuring timely patient engagement and provision of relevant resources remain. In addition, further efforts are needed to implement and improve the visibility of patient input in the HTA process.
Case Report: Four Cases of Cortical/Brainstem Encephalitis Positive for Myelin Oligodendrocyte Glycoprotein Immunoglobulin G
Authors: Wang Wan , Yin Juntao , Fan Zhiliang , Kang Juxian , Wei Jia , Yin Xiaoqian , Yin Shaohua
Published: January 2022

Aim

Despite a significant improvement in the number of studies on myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG)-immunoglobulin G (IgG)-associated disorder (MOGAD) over the past few years, MOG-IgG-associated cortical/brainstem encephalitis remains a relatively uncommon and less-reported presentation among the MOGAD spectrum. This study aimed to report the clinical course, imaging features, and therapeutic response of MOG-IgG-associated cortical/brainstem encephalitis.

Methods

Data of four patients who suffered from cortical encephalitis with epileptic seizures and/or brainstem encephalitis during the course of the disease were retrospectively collected and analyzed.

Results

In this study, three male patients and one female patient, with a median age of onset of 21 years (ranging 20–51 years) were enrolled. An epileptic seizure was the main symptom of cortical encephalitis in these patients, while the manifestations of brainstem encephalitis were diverse. Cranial MRI demonstrated abnormal signals in unilateral or bilateral cortical or brainstem. Cerebrospinal fluid studies showed normal or mildly elevated leukocyte counts and protein levels, and a cell-based assay detected positive MOG-IgG in the serum of all patients. Two patients were misdiagnosed at the first attack, and both experienced a relapse. All of them accepted the first-line immunotherapy after a confirmed diagnosis and had a good outcome.

Conclusion

Early suspicion of MOG-IgG-associated encephalitis is necessary for any patient with sudden onset of seizures or symptoms of brainstem damage, especially with lesions on unilateral/bilateral cortical or brainstem on brain MRI.
Altered Neurovascular Coupling in Unilateral Pulsatile Tinnitus
Authors: Li Xiaoshuai , Xu Ning , Dai Chihang , Meng Xuxu , Qiu Xiaoyu , Ding Heyu , Zeng Rong , Lv Han , Zhao Pengfei , Yang Zhenghan , Gong Shusheng , Wang Zhenchang
Published: January 2022

Objective

Altered cerebral blood flow (CBF) and regional homogeneity (ReHo) have been reported in pulsatile tinnitus (PT) patients. We aimed to explore regional neurovascular coupling changes in PT patients.

Materials and Methods

Twenty-four right PT patients and 25 sex- and age-matched normal controls were included in this study. All subjects received arterial spin labeling imaging to measure CBF and functional MRI to compute ReHo. CBF/ReHo ratio was used to assess regional neurovascular coupling between the two groups. We also analyzed the correlation between CBF/ReHo ratio and clinical data from the PT patients.

Results

PT patients exhibited increased CBF/ReHo ratio in left middle temporal gyrus and right angular gyrus than normal controls, and no decreased CBF/ReHo ratio was found. CBF/ReHo ratio in the left middle temporal gyrus of PT patients was positively correlated with Tinnitus Handicap Inventory score (r = 0.433, p = 0.035).

Conclusion

These findings indicated that patients with PT exhibit abnormal neurovascular coupling, which provides new information for understanding the neuropathological mechanisms underlying PT.
A Computed Tomography Nomogram for Assessing the Malignancy Risk of Focal Liver Lesions in Patients With Cirrhosis: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Wu Hongzhen , Wang Zihua , Liang Yingying , Tan Caihong , Wei Xinhua , Zhang Wanli , Yang Ruimeng , Mo Lei , Jiang Xinqing
Published: January 2022

Purpose

The detection and characterization of focal liver lesions (FLLs) in patients with cirrhosis is challenging. Accurate information about FLLs is key to their management, which can range from conservative methods to surgical excision. We sought to develop a nomogram that incorporates clinical risk factors, blood indicators, and enhanced computed tomography (CT) imaging findings to predict the nature of FLLs in cirrhotic livers.

Method

A total of 348 surgically confirmed FLLs were included. CT findings and clinical data were assessed. All factors with P < 0.05 in univariate analysis were included in multivariate analysis. ROC analysis was performed, and a nomogram was constructed based on the multivariate logistic regression analysis results.

Results

The FLLs were either benign (n = 79) or malignant (n = 269). Logistic regression evaluated independent factors that positively affected malignancy. AFP (OR = 10.547), arterial phase hyperenhancement (APHE) (OR = 740.876), washout (OR = 0.028), satellite lesions (OR = 15.164), ascites (OR = 156.241), and nodule-in-nodule architecture (OR =27.401) were independent predictors of malignancy. The combined predictors had excellent performance in differentiating benign and malignant lesions, with an AUC of 0.959, a sensitivity of 95.24%, and a specificity of 87.5% in the training cohort and AUC of 0.981, sensitivity of 94.74%, and specificity of 93.33% in the test cohort. The C-index was 96.80%, and calibration curves showed good agreement between the nomogram predictions and the actual data.

Conclusions

The nomogram showed excellent discrimination and calibration for malignancy risk prediction, and it may aid in making FLLs treatment decisions.
Capturing Biomarkers and Molecular Targets in Cellular Landscapes From Dynamic Reaction Network Models and Machine Learning
Authors: Mertins Susan D.
Published: January 2022

Computational dynamic ODE models of cell function describing biochemical reactions have been created for decades, but on a small scale. Still, they have been highly effective in describing and predicting behaviors. For example, oscillatory phospho-ERK levels were predicted and confirmed in MAPK signaling encompassing both positive and negative feedback loops. These models typically were limited and not adapted to large datasets so commonly found today. But importantly, ODE models describe reaction networks in well-mixed systems representing the cell and can be simulated with ordinary differential equations that are solved deterministically. Stochastic solutions, which can account for noisy reaction networks, in some cases, also improve predictions. Today, dynamic ODE models rarely encompass an entire cell even though it might be expected that an upload of the large genomic, transcriptomic, and proteomic datasets may allow whole cell models. It is proposed here to combine output from simulated dynamic ODE models, completed with omics data, to discover both biomarkers in cancer a priori and molecular targets in the Machine Learning setting.
Construction and Validation of a Clinical Predictive Nomogram for Improving the Cancer Detection of Prostate Naive Biopsy Based on Chinese Multicenter Clinical Data
Authors: Tao Tao , Wang Changming , Liu Weiyong , Yuan Lei , Ge Qingyu , Zhang Lang , He Biming , Wang Lei , Wang Ling , Xiang Caiping , Wang Haifeng , Chen Shuqiu , Xiao Jun
Published: January 2022

Objectives

Prostate biopsy is a common approach for the diagnosis of prostate cancer (PCa) in patients with suspicious PCa. In order to increase the detection rate of prostate naive biopsy, we constructed two effective nomograms for predicting the diagnosis of PCa and clinically significant PCa (csPCa) prior to biopsy.

Materials and Methods

The data of 1,428 patients who underwent prostate biopsy in three Chinese medical centers from January 2018 to June 2021 were used to conduct this retrospective study. The KD cohort, which consisted of 701 patients, was used for model construction and internal validation; the DF cohort, which consisted of 385 patients, and the ZD cohort, which consisted of 342 patients, were used for external validation. Independent predictors were selected by univariate and multivariate binary logistic regression analysis and adopted for establishing the predictive nomogram. The apparent performance of the model was evaluated via internal validation and geographically external validation. For assessing the clinical utility of our model, decision curve analysis was also performed.

Results

The results of univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis showed prostate-specific antigen density (PSAD) (P<0.001, OR:2.102, 95%CI:1.687-2.620) and prostate imaging-reporting and data system (PI-RADS) grade (P<0.001, OR:4.528, 95%CI:2.752-7.453) were independent predictors of PCa before biopsy. Therefore, a nomogram composed of PSAD and PI-RADS grade was constructed. Internal validation in the developed cohort showed that the nomogram had good discrimination (AUC=0.804), and the calibration curve indicated that the predicted incidence was consistent with the observed incidence of PCa; the brier score was 0.172. External validation was performed in the DF and ZD cohorts. The AUC values were 0.884 and 0.882, in the DF and ZD cohorts, respectively. Calibration curves elucidated greatly predicted the accuracy of PCa in the two validation cohorts; the brier scores were 0.129 in the DF cohort and 0.131 in the ZD cohort. Decision curve analysis showed that our model can add net benefits for patients. A separated predicted model for csPCa was also established and validated. The apparent performance of our nomogram for PCa was also assessed in three different PSA groups, and the results were as good as we expected.

Conclusions

In this study, we put forward two simple and convenient clinical predictive models comprised of PSAD and PI-RADS grade with excellent reproducibility and generalizability. They provide a novel calculator for the prediction of the diagnosis of an individual patient with suspicious PCa.
Case Report: Fatal Acute Liver Failure With Giant Cell Transformation in a Pediatric Patient Associated With MIS-C
Authors: Bonilla Gonzalez Carolina , Hincapié Echeverría Marcela , Plazas Pachón Rocio , Mora Umaña Paola , Diaz Gómez Berlly Lucia , Gualdron Barreto Nathalie
Published: January 2022

Background: We describe the first pediatric case of a 10-month-old boy with MIS-C who developed fulminant acute liver failure with associated giant cell transformation and a fatal outcome, after ruling out other infectious, metabolic, genetic, and autoimmune causes of liver failure following the usual algorithms for approaching the etiology. Although the patient received the main treatment strategies for liver failure, he had a fatal outcome. A clinical autopsy was considered as part of the diagnostic approach, which showed evidence of giant cell transformation.
The LcKNAT1-LcEIL2/3 Regulatory Module Is Involved in Fruitlet Abscission in Litchi
Authors: Ma Xingshuai , Ying Peiyuan , He Zidi , Wu Hong , Li Jianguo , Zhao Minglei
Published: January 2022

Large and premature organ abscission may limit the industrial development of fruit crops by causing serious economic losses. It is well accepted that ethylene (ET) is a strong inducer of organ abscission in plants. However, the mechanisms underlying the control of organ abscission by ET are largely unknown. We previously revealed that LcKNAT1, a KNOTTED-LIKE FROM ARABIDOPSIS THALIANA1 (KNAT1)-like protein, acted as a negative regulator in control of fruitlet abscission through suppressing the expression of ET biosynthetic genes in litchi. In this study, we further reported that LcKNAT1 could also directly repress the transcription of LcEIL2 and LcEIL3, two ETHYLENE INSENSITIVE 3-like (EIL) homologs in litchi, which functioned as positive regulators in ET-activated fruitlet abscission by directly promoting the expression of genes responsible for ET biosynthesis and cell wall degradation. The expression level of LcKNAT1 was downregulated, while LcEIL2/3 was upregulated at the abscission zone (AZ) accompanying the fruitlet abscission in litchi. The results of electrophoretic mobility shift assays (EMSAs) and transient expression showed that LcKNAT1 could directly bind to the promoters of LcEIL2 and LcEIL3 and repress their expression. Furthermore, the genetic cross demonstrated that the β-glucuronidase (GUS) expression driven by the promoters of LcEIL2 or LcEIL3 at the floral AZ was obviously suppressed by LcKNAT1 under stable transformation in Arabidopsis. Taken together, our findings suggest that the LcKNAT1-LcEIL2/3 regulatory module is likely involved in the fruitlet abscission in litchi, and we propose that LcKNAT1 could suppress both ET biosynthesis and signaling to regulate litchi fruit abscission.
Healthcare Professionals, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder, and COVID-19: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Saladino Valeria , Auriemma Vincenzo , Campinoti Valeria
Published: January 2022

The recent COVID-19 pandemic impacted healthcare professionals psychologically. They were unprepared to handle such a powerful and unknown virus. Consequently, they had to face situations of extreme distress, developing vicarious traumatization and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The first one is associated with the “cost of caring” for others and affected persons who constantly are exposed to other sufferings. PTSD is a psychiatric disorder that could affect people who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and correlated symptoms might impact the lives of healthcare professionals at the personal, professional, and relational levels. Furthermore, the pandemic could decrease the empathy of healthcare professionals, influencing their relationship with patients. This review aimed to describe the incidence of PTSD among HPs during the COVID-19 pandemic. We focused on the following aspects: (a) PTSD symptoms and correlated psychological issues, (b) repercussions at working and personal levels, (c) change in empathetic involvement of healthcare professionals.
Applying Hybrid ARIMA-SGARCH in Algorithmic Investment Strategies on S&P500 Index
Authors: Vo Nguyen , Ślepaczuk Robert
Published: January 2022

This research aims to compare the performance of ARIMA as a linear model with that of the combination of ARIMA and GARCH family models to forecast S&P500 log returns in order to construct algorithmic investment strategies on this index. We used the data collected from Yahoo Finance with daily frequency for the period from 1 January 2000 to 31 December 2019. By using a rolling window approach, we compared ARIMA with the hybrid models to examine whether hybrid ARIMA-SGARCH and ARIMA-EGARCH can really reflect the specific time-series characteristics and have better predictive power than the simple ARIMA model. In order to assess the precision and quality of these models in forecasting, we compared their equity lines, their forecasting error metrics (MAE, MAPE, RMSE, MAPE), and their performance metrics (annualized return compounded, annualized standard deviation, maximum drawdown, information ratio, and adjusted information ratio). The main contribution of this research is to show that the hybrid models outperform ARIMA and the benchmark (Buy&Hold strategy on S&P500 index) over the long term. These results are not sensitive to varying window sizes, the type of distribution, and the type of the GARCH model.
Economic Effects of Micro- and Mini-Distributed Photovoltaic Generation for the Brazilian Distribution System
Authors: Martins Vanderlei Affonso , Branco David Alves Castelo , Hallack Michelle Carvalho Metanias
Published: January 2022

The micro- and mini-distributed generation (MMDG) has significantly increased after the normative resolution No. 482/2012 in Brazil; the installed capacity surpassed 7 GW in 2021. In the international context, a similar event was observed, whose process generated a cross-subsidy for other consumers, in addition to other problems that affect the economic balance of concessionaires. To mitigate this issue, the National Electric Energy Agency (ANEEL) is in the process of revising current rules. Thus, this study estimates the weight of this decision, through a methodology adapted from international assessment models, based on information from the Brazilian regulatory system. In order to achieve it, this paper presents metrics to define the potential market MMDG, based on the consumption patterns of consumers. Then, through time series analysis, the MMDG demand curve is estimated under two scenarios up to 2030. Finally, the economic impact on tariff adjustments and revisions, and their effect on the electric power concessionaires are evaluated. In the distribution companies of the Enel Group alone, economic losses are estimated at USD 1.2 billion by 2030; 53% of this will be passed on to consumers’ tariffs. Thus, based on international experiences, it can be concluded that the best model is the adequate grid remuneration.
Measure of Customer Satisfaction in the Residential Electricity Distribution Service Using Structural Equation Modeling
Authors: Santos Neto Agenor S. , Reis Marcio R. C. , Coimbra António Paulo , Soares Julio C. V. , Calixto Wesley P.
Published: January 2022

The main objective of this study is to apply structural equation modeling with partial least squares, and based on covariance, to assess the satisfaction of residential electricity consumers. The methodology used compares the results of both structural equation models to indicate the model that best fits the problem of measuring the satisfaction of residential consumers with electricity concessionaires and licensees. The sample used in the survey contained questionnaire responses from 86,175 individuals considering the period from 2014 to 2018. The constructs evaluated were satisfaction, quality, value, loyalty, and trust. A confidence interval analysis shows that all weights are significant, demonstrating the importance of all the indicators that represent the constructs. The trust, quality, and value constructs can explain 74.4% of the satisfaction construct variability, so this relationship’s explanatory capacity is considered substantial. Finally, the evaluation of the performance of the service provided by the electric energy concessionaires/licensees, measured by customer satisfaction, allows for the continuous improvement of services, and meeting, even if minimally, the expectations of its consumers.
A Polynomial Approximation to Self Consistent Solution for Schrödinger–Poisson Equations in Superlattice Structures
Authors: Mączka Mariusz , Pawłowski Stanisław
Published: January 2022

The paper deals with a new approach to iterative solving the Schrödinger and Poisson equations in the first type of semiconductor superlattice. Assumptions of the transfer matrix method are incorporated into the approach, which allows to take into account the potential varying within each single layer of bias voltage superlattice. The key process of the method is to approximate the charge density and wave functions with polynomials. It allows to obtain semi-analytical solutions for the Schrödinger and Poisson equations, which in turn have significant impact on the accuracy and speed of superlattice simulations. The presented procedure is also suifihue for finding eigenstates extended over relatively large superlattice area, and it can be used as an effective pro-gram module for a superlattice finite model. The obtained quantum states are very similar to the Wannier-Stark functions, and they can serve as the base under non-equilibrium Green’s function formalism (NEGF). Exemplary results for Schrödinger and Poisson solutions for superlattices based on the GaAs/AlGaAs heterostructure are presented to prove all the above.
Feasibility Assessment of a Dual Intake-Port Scroll Expander Operating in an ORC-Based Power Unit
Authors: Fatigati Fabio , Di Giovine Giammarco , Cipollone Roberto
Published: January 2022

The main driver of research in the road transportation sector is almost certainly the development of technologies which allow for the reduction of CO2 emissions from internal combustion engines (ICEs). Wasted heat recovery (WHR) from the exhaust gases of ICEs based on organic rankine cycle (ORC) power units is one of the most promising technological solutions. However, several issues are raised when the recovery unit is scaled down to small applications, not to mention the fact that thermal sources are characterized by their intrinsically transient nature, as is the case with ICEs. In fact, this leads the ORC unit having to work frequently in off-design conditions. To successfully overcome this issue, the proper design and selection of the expanders are crucial. They are generally chosen from volumetric-type machines, thanks to their capacity to deal with time-varying thermo-fluid dynamic inlet properties. Among them, scroll machines represent one of the best solutions, despite them not yet being optimized as expanders, with them having been studied more as compressors. Dual-intake-port (DIP) technology is a novel solution used to enhance the performance of scroll machines. The effectiveness of this technology was assessed thanks to a comprehensive, experimentally-validated theoretical model of the scroll. It demonstrated that DIP technology can produce a 25% increase in mechanical power with respect to the baseline machine, without modifying the in–out pressure ratio. Maintaining a constant pressure difference across the expander at 5.6 bar, the power grew from 1131 W to 1410 W with the adoption of DIP technology. This power boost is lower than that achieved with a comparable DIP sliding rotary vane expander (SVRE) already studied by the authors, but the DIP Scroll achieved a higher efficiency (50–60%) when compared to the DIP SVRE case (40%).
Applications, Operational Architectures and Development of Virtual Power Plants as a Strategy to Facilitate the Integration of Distributed Energy Resources
Authors: Sarmiento-Vintimilla Juan C. , Torres Esther , Larruskain Dunixe Marene , Pérez-Molina María José
Published: January 2022

In this article, we focus on the development and scope of virtual power plants (VPPs) as a strategy to facilitate the integration of distributed energy resources (DERs) in the power system. Firstly, the concepts about VPPs and their scope and limitations are introduced. Secondly, smart management systems for the integration of DERs are considered and a scheme of DER management through a bottom-up strategy is proposed. Then, we analyze the coordination of VPPs with the system operators and their commercial integration in the electricity markets. Finally, the challenges that must be overcome to achieve the large-scale implementation of VPPs in the power system are identified and discussed.
The Impact of Hydrogen Admixture into Natural Gas on Residential and Commercial Gas Appliances
Authors: Leicher Jörg , Schaffert Johannes , Cigarida Hristina , Tali Eren , Burmeister Frank , Giese Anne , Albus Rolf , Görner Klaus , Carpentier Stéphane , Milin Patrick , Schweitzer Jean
Published: January 2022

Hydrogen as a carbon-free fuel is commonly expected to play a major role in future energy supply, e.g., as an admixture gas in natural gas grids. Which impacts on residential and commercial gas appliances can be expected due to the significantly different physical and chemical properties of hydrogen-enriched natural gas? This paper analyses and discusses blends of hydrogen and natural gas from the perspective of combustion science. The admixture of hydrogen into natural gas changes the properties of the fuel gas. Depending on the combustion system, burner design and other boundary conditions, these changes may cause higher combustion temperatures and laminar combustion velocities, while changing flame positions and shapes are also to be expected. For appliances that are designed for natural gas, these effects may cause risk of flashback, reduced operational safety, material deterioration, higher nitrogen oxides emissions (NOx), and efficiency losses. Theoretical considerations and first measurements indicate that the effects of hydrogen admixture on combustion temperatures and the laminar combustion velocities are often largely mitigated by a shift towards higher air excess ratios in the absence of combustion control systems, but also that common combustion control technologies may be unable to react properly to the presence of hydrogen in the fuel.
The Missing Pieces to the Cold-Stored Platelet Puzzle
Authors: Zhao Hanqi , Devine Dana V.
Published: January 2022

Cold-stored platelets are making a comeback. They were abandoned in the late 1960s in favor of room-temperature stored platelets due to the need for longer post-transfusion platelet recoverability and survivability in patients with chronic thrombocytopenia. However, the current needs for platelet transfusions are rapidly changing. Today, more platelets are given to patients who are actively bleeding, such as ones receiving cardiac surgeries. It has been established that cold-stored platelets are more hemostatically effective, have reduced bacterial growth, and have longer potential shelf lives. These compelling characteristics led to the recent interest in bringing back cold-stored platelets to the blood systems. However, before reinstating cold-stored platelets in the clinics again, a thorough investigation of in vitro storage characteristics and in vivo transfusion effects is required. This review aims to provide an update on the recent research efforts into the storage characteristics and functions of cold-stored platelets using modern investigative tools. We will also discuss efforts made to improve cold-stored platelets to be a better and safer product. Finally, we will finish off with discussing the relevance of in vitro data to in vivo transfusion results and provide insights and directions for future investigations of cold-stored platelets.
Effect of a Topical Collagen Tripeptide on Antiaging and Inhibition of Glycation of the Skin: A Pilot Study
Authors: Lee Young In , Lee Sang Gyu , Jung Inhee , Suk Jangmi , Lee Mun-Hoe , Kim Do-Un , Lee Ju Hee
Published: January 2022

The glycation process has been recognized as one of the critical parameters that accelerate signs of skin aging, especially in skin exposed to environment factors, such as ultraviolet radiation. Although previous studies showed the anti-inflammatory and antiaging properties of the hydrolyzed collagen tripeptide (CTP), its exact mechanism is not fully understood. Therefore, in this study, we sought to investigate the effect of a topical CTP on facial skin. Our group designed a 4 week prospective, single-arm study of 22 Asian women who applied topical CTP. We observed significant improvements in skin wrinkles, elasticity, and density with a reduction in skin accumulation of advanced glycated end products (AGEs) at week 4 without any adverse effects. The in vitro study revealed a preventive effect of the topical CTP on the accumulation of AGEs, denatured collagen production, and reactive oxygen species in dermal fibroblasts. Moreover, treatment with the CTP decreased induction of matrix metalloproteinases while increasing the collagen 1 level. These results suggest that the application of a topical CTP might improve clinical aging phenotypes via the inhibition of glycation and oxidative stress, leading to a delay in cellular aging.
Disassembly and Mislocalization of AQP4 in Incipient Scar Formation after Experimental Stroke
Authors: Banitalebi Shervin , Skauli Nadia , Geiseler Samuel , Ottersen Ole Petter , Amiry-Moghaddam Mahmood
Published: January 2022

There is an urgent need to better understand the mechanisms involved in scar formation in the brain. It is well known that astrocytes are critically engaged in this process. Here, we analyze incipient scar formation one week after a discrete ischemic insult to the cerebral cortex. We show that the infarct border zone is characterized by pronounced changes in the organization and subcellular localization of the major astrocytic protein AQP4. Specifically, there is a loss of AQP4 from astrocytic endfoot membranes that anchor astrocytes to pericapillary basal laminae and a disassembly of the supramolecular AQP4 complexes that normally abound in these membranes. This disassembly may be mechanistically coupled to a downregulation of the newly discovered AQP4 isoform AQP4ex. AQP4 has adhesive properties and is assumed to facilitate astrocyte mobility by permitting rapid volume changes at the leading edges of migrating astrocytes. Thus, the present findings provide new insight in the molecular basis of incipient scar formation.
Computational Characterization of Mechanical, Hemodynamic, and Surface Interaction Conditions: Role of Protein Adsorption on the Regenerative Response of TEVGs
Authors: Riveros Alejandra , Garcia-Brand Andres J. , Rodriguez-Soto Maria A. , Sandoval Nestor , Muñoz-Camargo Carolina , Cruz Juan C. , Briceño Juan C.
Published: January 2022

Currently available small diameter vascular grafts (<6 mm) present several long-term limitations, which has prevented their full clinical implementation. Computational modeling and simulation emerge as tools to study and optimize the rational design of small diameter tissue engineered vascular grafts (TEVG). This study aims to model the correlation between mechanical-hemodynamic-biochemical variables on protein adsorption over TEVG and their regenerative potential. To understand mechanical-hemodynamic variables, two-way Fluid-Structure Interaction (FSI) computational models of novel TEVGs were developed in ANSYS Fluent 2019R3® and ANSYS Transient Structural® software. Experimental pulsatile pressure was included as an UDF into the models. TEVG mechanical properties were obtained from tensile strength tests, under the ISO7198:2016, for novel TEVGs. Subsequently, a kinetic model, linked to previously obtained velocity profiles, of the protein-surface interaction between albumin and fibrinogen, and the intima layer of the TEVGs, was implemented in COMSOL Multiphysics 5.3®. TEVG wall properties appear critical to understand flow and protein adsorption under hemodynamic stimuli. In addition, the kinetic model under flow conditions revealed that size and concentration are the main parameters to trigger protein adsorption on TEVGs. The computational models provide a robust platform to study multiparametrically the performance of TEVGs in terms of protein adsorption and their regenerative potential.