bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study of the Antimicrobial Properties of Compositions Based on Essential Oils From Eucalyptus and Thuja Plants With White Naphthalan Oil
Authors: Abbasov V. , Ismailova G. , Nabiyeva N. , Adigozalova S. , Asadova R. , Khamiyeva G. , Farzaliyeva A. , Mammadli A. , Alpashayeva A.
Published: September 2023

Cosmetic and medical oils have been widely used in medicine and cosmetology for many years. The main function of medical oils is to be a carrier in medicinal preparations. But in many cases, they perform a therapeutic function at the same time. It should be noted that for obtaining medical and cosmetic oils, low-sulfur and low-paraffin oils are more appropriate. In the context of the conducted research, the antimicrobial activity of various combinations of essential oils obtained from eucalyptus and thuja plants with therapeutic white naphthalan oil taken as a control variant was studied to clarify the effective bactericidal action mechanism. In the preparation of these compositions were prepared with the addition of therapeutic white naphthalan oil as the main component, and in addition, essential oil separated from eucalyptus and thuja plants in the ratio of 1:0,04:0,08:0,1 was analyzed for their antimicrobial effects on 4 microbes (Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Candida albicans). Medicinal and cosmetic products were determined according to the received antimicrobial effective compositions.
Cytogenetic Analysis of F1Hybrids Derived From Crossings of Triticum aestivum L. Lines With Aegilops L. Species
Authors: Namazova L. , Aliyeva A.
Published: September 2023

As a result of the studies seed settings of hybrid combinations obtained from the crossings between Triticum aestivum L. lines and Aegilops L. species, also the cytogenetic analysis of the F1 hybrids belonging to these combinations have been established that possession joint subgenomes of parental forms is not guarantee a relatively high percentage of fertility at crosses, and a high level of chromosome pairing in meiosis. At the same time, no significant correlations were found between the level of chromosome conjugation and fertility in the studied intergeneric F1 hybrids.
Characteristics and Species Composition of the Subalpine and Alpine Grasslands of Goygol National Park
Authors: Bayramova A.
Published: September 2023

By the order of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan dated April 1, 2008, Goygol National Park was established in the administrative territories of Goygol, Dashkasan and Goranboy districts from 6739 hectares to 12755 hectares. The grassland vegetation of Goygol National Park and the lake ecosystem it surrounds is one of the floristically rich regions of the Caucasus. The richness and diversity of flora is related to the geomorphological complexity of the area. On the other hand, the reserve regime allows the protection of vegetation. Modern subalpine vegetation has changed dramatically as a result of mowing and grazing. Thus, short (13-15 cm) grass or grass-steppe plant groups have formed in the place of relatively tall plants that existed earlier in many pasture areas. The flora composition of subalpine meadows is much richer than the meadow associations of other mountain zones. 70-80 (100) flowering plants were recorded in many vegetation groups. The climate of the Alpine belt is distinguished by its harshness. Short summer (2.0-2.5 months), low air and soil temperature, abundance of atmospheric precipitation, etc. are characteristic features of the alpine zone.
Assessment of Soil Bulk Density and Moisture Content of Light-Gray-Brown Arable Soils at the Rainfed Condition
Authors: Akhmedova A.
Published: September 2023

The article discusses the effects of different tillage methods, predecessors, and mineral fertilizers on the soil bulk density and soil moisture content of light-gray-brown soils at the rainfed condition. The results of the research conducted during the years 2014-2017 under cereal crops reveal that the soil bulk density and soil moisture content exhibit dynamic changes within the vegetation period, depending on the tillage method, the growth stages of the crops and other factor. Furthermore, there is differentiation in the moisture content and soil bulk density between the topsoil and the subsoil layer. During the research period moisture content varies depending on precipitation, crop growth stages, predecessors. Optimum moisture level is observed within periods of relatively higher precipitation and intensive growth stage of crops. Soil bulk density has varied within the range of 0.97-1.53 g/cm³. Favorable physical condition has been observed under the conventional and minimum tillage. Based on the research findings, the bulk density and moisture content of light-gray-brown arable soils can be assessed satisfactory through relevant quantitative indicators.
Comprehensive Treatment of Patients With Classical Trigeminal Neuralgia
Authors: Kanaev R. , Kydyrbaeva A. , Niyazbekov Ch.
Published: September 2023

Trigeminal neuralgia is a chronic disease characterized by short paroxysms of intense excruciating shooting pains in the innervation zone of one or more branches of the trigeminal nerve. Trigeminal neuralgia is a common disease, it occurs with a frequency of 4-5 to 30-50 cases per 100,000 population — according to reports, about 15,000 new patients are diagnosed in the United States annually. The practical social severity of trigeminal neuralgia is high — the severity of pain attacks leads to a significant disruption of the flow of the normal rhythm of life of patients. Among the conservative methods of treatment of classical trigeminal neuralgia, first-line drugs are anticonvulsants and, above all, carbamazepine, which suppresses cortical and stem foci of sensitization. In parallel with the increase in tolerance to the drug, the number of adverse events also increases. If drug therapy is ineffective, surgical methods of treatment are used. Microvascular decompression of the trigeminal nerve root is considered the “gold standard” among them. The microvascular decompression ensures the complete elimination of the pain syndrome, but the percentage of relapses of the disease varies widely. According to scientists, the relapse rate after the microvascular decompression was 28%. The mortality rate is from 0.5 to 2% and averages 1.4%. The main cause of death is a violation of blood circulation in the brain stem. In addition, damage to adjacent nerve structures occurs with varying frequency: IV, VI, VII and VIII nerves. In this regard, there was a need to develop alternative approaches to the treatment of trigeminal neuralgia with paroxysmal facial pain. The results of a clinical and instrumental study of various treatment methods are presented. The effectiveness of complex treatment for trigeminal neuralgia has been proven.
Uncovering the Morphological and Genetical Heterogeneity of Pyricularia oryzae (cooke) sacc. in Southwestern Region of Bangladesh
Authors: Sultana Mst. Sabiha , Ray Joyanti , Akther Papry , Mondal Debproshad , Mondal Chhoa
Published: September 2023

Significant yield losses are reported due to blast disease caused by Pyricularia oryzae across all rice growing areas of the world. Though, management strategies reduce disease significantly but blast epidemics are still common. This research was aimed to determine the variability among the 19 Pyricularia oryzae isolates of South-Western regions of Bangladesh. Morphological variability was determined based on nine morphological components like front mycelial color, reverse mycelial color, growth behavior, conidial length (μm), conidial  width (μm), conidial color, radial growth at 12 days (mm), 14 days (mm) and 16 days (mm) after incubation. Cluster analysis considering nine morphological components showed five distinct groups. Front and reverse mycelial color, growth behavior and conidial length played more than 80% role in generating variation among the nine tested components. Higher genetic variation was also detected among the 19 isolates of P. oryzae.  Here, larger numbers of amplified DNA fragments was formed by Primers UCB-155 which showed distinct polymorphism. Between two clusters, Cluster II consists of 18 isolates that were originated from different origin but having maximum 94% genetical similarity. Cluster I contain only one isolates PO-16. From pair wise distance matrix, maximum distance (80%) was found between PO-16 and PO-03 isolates and minimum distance (6%) was obtained between the isolates PO-11 and PO-12. Results of this experiment revealed that, higher genetic diversity among isolates of P. oryzae existed in the south western region of Bangladesh but there has no direct relation with genetic diversity and geographical origin.
Activismo ciudadano en la Red más de diez años Después del 15m. El caso de ‘vota, por favor’
Authors: Simancas González Esther , García López Marcial , Arévalo Salinas Álex Iván , Bustos Díaz Javier
Published: September 2023

Tras más de una década del 15M, resulta pertinente evaluar las claves de las actuales formas de activismo ciudadano. Esta investigación analiza los elementos creativos y discursivos de las campañas de la iniciativa ‘Vota, por favor’ en Instagram, incluyendo indicadores para evaluar la capacidad transformadora de la comunicación. El análisis de contenido implementado ha permitido comprobar, a nivel de intertextualidad, la relevancia que tienen los referentes de la cultura popular como ejes vertebradores de las propuestas visuales compartidas, que de forma reivindicativa y humorística apelan al voto y luchan contra la abstención en los últimos comicios generales, europeos y autonómicos en el estado español, en 2019, para frenar la irrupción de la extrema derecha en el sistema político del país. Se observa, por otra parte, una evolución en las campañas y carteles de ‘Vota, por favor’, que muestra un alejamiento de las claves comunicacionales del 15M hacia una réplica del contexto de polarización del mensaje político.
Agenda Setting y etnometodología. Su complementación en un estudio de la agenda pública local
Authors: Castillo Salina Yánder , Muñiz Zúñiga Viviana , Legrá Tisertt Darling Esmeralda
Published: September 2023

El artículo determina carencias de la Teoría de la Agenda Setting que no contribuyen a la apropiación compleja de la formación de la agenda pública en el marco de lo social. Para mayor profundización se propuso su triangulación con el enfoque etnometodológico, a fin de ahondar en el fenómeno desde las dialécticas de la vida cotidiana de la localidad de El Caney (Santiago de Cuba, Cuba). El diseño metodológico fue cualitativo, aunque se triangularon datos provenientes de la tradición cuantitativa. Las técnicas aplicadas fueron: observación participante, grupos focales, cuestionarios y coeficiente rho Spearman. Los resultados muestran una agenda pública materialista, crónica y experiencial, que se construye a partir de prácticas sociales asentadas históricamente en la localidad. Estas prácticas son métodos institucionalizados por los sujetos para su desarrollo cotidiano a partir de reglas y normas preestablecidas que le otorgan sentido al fenómeno. La estrategia epistémica y metodológica seguida por el estudio de caso demostró ser factible para profundizar en la agenda pública como hecho social y humano (socio-antropológico) y trascender las limitaciones mediocéntricas, positivistas y descontextualizadas que se han criticado a la Agenda Setting.
A Review of the Use of PLS-SEM in Neuromarketing Research
Authors: Vasilica-Maria Margalina , Jiménez Sánchez Álvaro , Ehrlich Janna Susanne
Published: September 2023

Una parte importante en las investigaciones en neuromarketing es la metodología utilizada para el análisis estadístico con el fin de comprender, explicar y predecir el comportamiento de los consumidores. Esta investigación analiza el uso del método PLS-SEM en este ámbito. Un total de 20 artículos, que emplearon al menos una técnica de neuromarketing y realizaron análisis PLS-SEM, se encontraron en las principales bases de datos (i.e., WOS, Scopus y otros). Se observa que a menudo no se utiliza enfoque adecuado para el muestreo y el tratamiento de muestras pequeñas. También se encuentran problemas con la aplicación apropiada de los procedimientos comunes de análisis PLS-SEM para la evaluación de los modelos externo e interno, así como con la aplicación de métodos avanzados. Los futuros estudios deberían evaluar la idoneidad de utilizar un enfoque PLS-SEM, según el objetivo de investigación que apoye dicho método, las condiciones que apoyen su uso y sus limitaciones. Se proporcionan directrices a los investigadores sobre cuándo el PLS-SEM es una herramienta de investigación apropiada en neuromarketing, qué herramientas analíticas deben utilizar y cómo validar y comunicar los resultados.
Mayoría de edad del Neuromarketing: mapa científico de 18 años de investigación en el área
Authors: Paz Gil Iria , Zagala Kacper , Cerdá Suárez Luis Manuel
Published: September 2023

Esta investigación se enfoca en la obtención de la estructura intelectual del área científica del neuromarketing y la neurociencia del consumidor. Para ello, se realiza un análisis bibliométrico de co-ocurrencia de palabras clave sobre un corpus de 355 artículos extraídos de las ediciones SCI-E y SSCI de la Colección Principal de WoS, que cubren los 18 años completos comprendidos entre 2005 y 2022. Los resultados muestran los autores y revistas más prolíficos y citados, así como la estructura intelectual del área, dividida en nueve clusters: Electroen­cephalography (EEG), Neuroeconomics, Impact y Eye-Tracking (temas motores); Event Related Potential (ERP) (temas altamente desarrollados y aislados); Perception, Reward y Behavior (temas emergentes o en declive); Arousal (temas básicos o transversales). Tras un análisis pormenorizado de los resultados, se discuten las contribuciones del área a la comprensión del comportamiento humano, sus aportes metodológicos, el alcance del campo de investigación y las consideraciones éticas de diversos grupos de interés. Una de las contribuciones fundamentales de este trabajo consiste en identificar las líneas principales, los retos metodológicos y las contribuciones a la sociedad del área científica, ordenando y categorizando gran parte de la investigación realizada hasta la fecha.
Representación mediática de menores extranjeros no acompañados: una propuesta para el uso de las nuevas narrativas
Authors: Peña Miranda Sebastián , Bueno Doral Tamara , García-Castillo Noelia
Published: September 2023

El principal objetivo de nuestra investigación consistió en desarrollar una propuesta de comunicación enmarcada en las nuevas narrativas sobre el colectivo de menores extranjeros no acompañados, uno de los colectivos migrantes más estereotipados y vulnerabilizados en España. Con tal fin se llevó a cabo una exhaustiva revisión documental y se realizaron entrevistas semiestructuradas a representantes de ONG, de la administración y del propio colectivo en España. Como resultado del análisis, se diseñó una guía para la elaboración de campañas de comunicación basadas en nuevas narrativas, en este caso aplicadas al colectivo de menores migrantes no acompañados, pero que podría ser extrapolable a otros colectivos de migrantes. Además, siguiendo estas directrices, se implementó una campaña de comunicación real junto con estudiantes del Grado de Publicidad. En esta comunicación presentamos asimismo los resultados y conclusiones relativos a la medición de su eficacia, revelando este estudio exploratorio que se trata de una comunicación efectiva. También se ha observado una falta generalizada de conocimiento sobre el colectivo entre los encuestados, lo que indicaría la necesidad de diseñar y ejecutar campañas de comunicación similares.
The association of hamstring tightness with lumbar lordosis and trunk flexibility in healthy individuals: gender analysis
Authors: Allam Nesma M. , Ebrahim Hasnaa Ali , Megahed Ibrahim Ateya , Elneblawi Nora Helmi , El-Sherbiny Mohamed , Fouda Khaled Zaki
Published: September 2023

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to investigate if there is a relation between hamstring tightness and lumbar lordosis as well as trunk flexibility based on gender differences and to analyze the differences in hamstring tightness, lumber lordosis and trunk flexibility in healthy adults.

Methods: One hundred young healthy adults were recruited and distributed into 2 equal groups according to gender: group A (female group) and group B (male group). Hamstring tightness (HT) was measured by Active Knee Extension (AKE) test and Straight Leg Raise (SLR) test, the angle of lumbar lordosis was measured with a flexible ruler from standing position and trunk flexion flexibility (TFF) was measured by Fingertip-to-Floor Test.

Results: There was a significant correlation between TFF and both measures of HT (SLR, p = 0.001; AKE, p = 0.001) in females. While, there was a non-significant correlation in males (SLR, p = 0.900; AKE, p = 0.717). Moreover, there was a non-significant correlation between lumbar lordosis and HT measures in both groups as (p > 0.05). Furthermore, there were significant differences between males and females in hamstring flexibility, TFF and lumbar lordosis as (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Gender differences in the relationship between hamstring tightness and trunk flexion flexibility are significant. However, there was no significant difference between males and females in the relationship between hamstring tightness and lumbar lordosis.
Investigations into the effects of scaffold microstructure on slow-release system with bioactive factors for bone repair
Authors: Pei Baoqing , Hu Mengyuan , Wu Xueqing , Lu Da , Zhang Shijia , Zhang Le , Wu Shuqin
Published: September 2023

In recent years, bone tissue engineering (BTE) has played an essential role in the repair of bone tissue defects. Although bioactive factors as one component of BTE have great potential to effectively promote cell differentiation and bone regeneration, they are usually not used alone due to their short effective half-lives, high concentrations, etc. The release rate of bioactive factors could be controlled by loading them into scaffolds, and the scaffold microstructure has been shown to significantly influence release rates of bioactive factors. Therefore, this review attempted to investigate how the scaffold microstructure affected the release rate of bioactive factors, in which the variables included pore size, pore shape and porosity. The loading nature and the releasing mechanism of bioactive factors were also summarized. The main conclusions were achieved as follows: i) The pore shapes in the scaffold may have had no apparent effect on the release of bioactive factors but significantly affected mechanical properties of the scaffolds; ii) The pore size of about 400 μm in the scaffold may be more conducive to controlling the release of bioactive factors to promote bone formation; iii) The porosity of scaffolds may be positively correlated with the release rate, and the porosity of 70%–80% may be better to control the release rate. This review indicates that a slow-release system with proper scaffold microstructure control could be a tremendous inspiration for developing new treatment strategies for bone disease. It is anticipated to eventually be developed into clinical applications to tackle treatment-related issues effectively.
Engineering global and local signal generators for probing temporal and spatial cellular signaling dynamics
Authors: Yang Haowen , Tel Jurjen
Published: September 2023

Cells constantly encounter a wide range of environmental signals and rely on their signaling pathways to initiate reliable responses. Understanding the underlying signaling mechanisms and cellular behaviors requires signal generators capable of providing diverse input signals to deliver to cell systems. Current research efforts are primarily focused on exploring cellular responses to global or local signals, which enable us to understand cellular signaling and behavior in distinct dimensions. This review presents recent advancements in global and local signal generators, highlighting their applications in studying temporal and spatial signaling activity. Global signals can be generated using microfluidic or photochemical approaches. Local signal sources can be created using living or artificial cells in combination with different control methods. We also address the strengths and limitations of each signal generator type, discussing challenges and potential extensions for future research. These approaches are expected to continue to facilitate on-going research to discover novel and intriguing cellular signaling mechanisms.
Endothelial type I interferon response and brain diseases: identifying STING as a therapeutic target
Authors: Duarte Nádia , Shafi Abdul Muktadir , Penha-Gonçalves Carlos , Pais Teresa Faria
Published: September 2023

The endothelium layer lining the inner surface of blood vessels serves relevant physiological functions in all body systems, including the exchanges between blood and extravascular space. However, endothelial cells also participate in innate and adaptive immune response that contribute to the pathophysiology of inflammatory disorders. Type I Interferon (IFN) signaling is an inflammatory response triggered by a variety of pathogens, but it can also be induced by misplaced DNA in the cytosol caused by cell stress or gene mutations. Type I IFN produced by blood leukocytes or by the endothelium itself is well-known to activate the interferon receptor (IFNAR) in endothelial cells. Here, we discuss the induction of type I IFN secretion and signaling in the endothelium, specifically in the brain microvasculature where endothelial cells participate in the tight blood-brain barrier (BBB). This barrier is targeted during neuroinflammatory disorders such as infection, multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease and traumatic brain injury. We focus on type I IFN induction through the cGAS-STING activation pathway in endothelial cells in context of autoinflammatory type I interferonopathies, inflammation and infection. By comparing the pathophysiology of two separate infectious diseases—cerebral malaria induced by Plasmodium infection and COVID-19 caused by SARS-CoV-2 infection—we emphasize the relevance of type I IFN and STING-induced vasculopathy in organ dysfunction. Investigating the role of endothelial cells as active type I IFN producers and responders in disease pathogenesis could lead to new therapeutic targets. Namely, endothelial dysfunction and brain inflammation may be avoided with strategies that target excessive STING activation in endothelial cells.
Research progress on the role of the Wnt signaling pathway in pituitary adenoma
Authors: Wang Wencai , Ma Luyao , Zhao Yongqiang , Liu Menghao , Ye Wei , Li Xianfeng
Published: September 2023

Pituitary adenoma (PA) is the third most common central nervous system tumor originating from the anterior pituitary, but its pathogenesis remains unclear. The Wnt signaling pathway is a conserved pathway involved in cell proliferation, Self-renewal of stem cells, and cell differentiation. It is related to the occurrence of various tumors, including PA. This article reviews the latest developments in Wnt pathway inhibitors and pathway-targeted drugs. It discusses the possibility of combining Wnt pathway inhibitors with immunotherapy to provide a theoretical basis for the combined treatment of PA.
Cardiovascular disease and risk factors in adults with diabetes mellitus in Hungary: a population-based study
Authors: Ulambayar Battamir , Ghanem Amr Sayed , Kovács Nóra , Trefán László , Móré Marianna , Nagy Attila Csaba
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Diabetes mellitus (DM) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) such as acute myocardial infarction, stroke, and coronary artery disease are highly prevalent conditions that are responsible for significant morbidity and mortality, particularly in Hungary. The conditions are attributed to identical risk factors, and individuals with DM are primarily susceptible to cardiovascular complications, which are the leading causes of death and disability in patients with DM. The objective of this study was to estimate the prevalence of CVD in individuals with DM and to investigate the association between potential risk factors and the presence of CVD among individuals with DM in a population-based sample.

Methods

The study was based on data from three waves of the European Health Interview Surveys (EHIS) conducted in Hungary in 2009, 2014, and 2019.

Results

The prevalence of CVD among patients with DM decreased during the study period and that socioeconomic factors, cardiometabolic risk factors including high blood pressure and high cholesterol, and depression are major contributors to CVD burden in patients with DM in Hungary.

Discussion

Our findings suggest the importance of regular check-up for hypertension and hypercholesterolemia, better focus on socioeconomic status, as well as ongoing monitoring of mental health among patients with diabetes. Further research is needed to understand the potential causes behind the observed decrease in CVD prevalence.
An effective surrogate model assisted algorithm for multi-objective optimization: application to wind farm layout design
Authors: Chen Yong , Wang Li , Huang Hui
Published: September 2023

Due to the intricate and diverse nature of industrial systems, traditional optimization algorithms require a significant amount of time to search for the optimal solution throughout the entire design space, making them unsuitable for meeting practical industrial demands. To address this issue, we propose a novel approach that combines surrogate models with optimization algorithms. Firstly, we introduce the Sparse Gaussian Process regression (SGP) into the surrogate model, proposing the SGP surrogate-assisted optimization method. This approach effectively overcomes the computational expense caused by the large amount of data required in Gaussian Process model. Secondly, we use grid partitioning to divide the optimization problem into multiple regions, and utilize the multi-objective particle swarm optimization algorithm to optimize particles in each region. By combining the advantages of grid partitioning and particle swarm optimization, which overcome the limitations of traditional optimization algorithms in handling multi-objective problems. Lastly, the effectiveness and robustness of the proposed method are verified through three types of 12 test functions and a wind farm layout optimization case study. The results show that the combination of meshing and SGP surrogate enables more accurate identification of optimal solutions, thereby improving the accuracy and speed of the optimization results. Additionally, the method demonstrates its applicability to a variety of complex multi-objective optimization problems.
A decision-making method for the operation flexibility enhancement of hybrid cascaded MTDC
Authors: Wang Yuhan , Li Zhou , Zhang Yuanshi
Published: September 2023

To enable the integration of large-scale renewable energy, hybrid HVDC technology, which combines the technical advantages of LCC-HVDC and VSC-HVDC, is being gradually deployed in the power grid nowadays. The operation of the Wu-dong-de Hybrid DC Project and the Jian-su Hybrid cascaded MTDC Project has proved its advantages. However, for the simultaneous application of different converter station technologies in the system, the control strategies become complex. Issuing appropriate control instructions to ensure system stability according to operational requirements is an issue that cannot be ignored in decision-making. Even under abnormal conditions, when the topology changes due to various failure scenarios, reasonable decision-making and precise control instruction definitions are required. To achieve flexible planning of the MTDC system, this paper presents a decision-making method for control strategies of a hybrid cascaded MTDC system, which analyzes the control strategy combinations selected for normal and abnormal conditions of the MTDC system. In addition, a control instruction calculating method and decision-making process for precise control in normal and abnormal control conditions is proposed. Simulation results based on a five-terminal hybrid cascaded MTDC in PSCAD/EMTDC have verified the effectiveness of the proposed method.
A revision of blade element/momentum theory for wind turbines in their high-thrust region
Authors: Wood David H. , Golmirzaee Narges
Published: September 2023

Modern horizontal-axis wind turbines produce maximum power at an optimal tip speed ratio, λopt, of around 7. This is also the approximate start of the high-thrust region, which extends to runaway at λR ≈ 2λopt where no power is produced and the thrust is maximized. The runaway thrust coefficient often exceeds unity. It is well known that the conventional axial momentum equation must be modified whenever the thrust coefficient approaches unity, but most past modifications have no sound physical basis. Our main revision is to include the “wake vorticity” term in the axial momentum balance. This term is related to blade element drag and acts to decouple the thrust from the induced axial velocity when it becomes large near the edge of the rotor as the runaway is approached. The wake vorticity term dominates the axial momentum equation in these conditions and leads to estimates of power and thrust that are consistent with the limited amount of high-quality experimental data in the high-thrust region.
Risk-averse stochastic dynamic power dispatch based on deep reinforcement learning with risk-oriented Graph-Gan sampling
Authors: Huang Wenqi , Dai Zhen , Hou Jiaxuan , Liang Lingyu , Chen Yiping , Chen Zhiwei , Pan Zhenning
Published: September 2023

The increasing penetration of renewable energy sources (RES) brings volatile stochasticity, which significantly challenge the optimal dispatch of power systems. This paper aims at developing a cost-effective and robust policy for stochastic dynamic optimization of power systems, which improves the economy as well as avoiding the risk of high costs in some critical scenarios with small probability. However, it is hard for existing risk-neutral methods to incorporate risk measure since most samples are normal. For this regard, a novel risk-averse policy learning approach based on deep reinforcement learning with risk-oriented sampling is proposed. Firstly, a generative adversarial network (GAN) with graph convolutional neural network (GCN) is proposed to learn from historical data and achieve risk-oriented sampling. Specifically, system state is modelled as graph data and GCN is employed to capture the underlying correlation of the uncertainty corresponding to the system topology. Risk knowledge is the embedded to encourage more critical scenarios are sampled while aligning with historical data distributions. Secondly, a modified deep reinforcement learning (DRL) with risk-measure under soft actor critic framework is proposed to learn the optimal dispatch policy from sampling data. Compared with the traditional deep reinforcement learning which is risk-neutral, the proposed method is more robust and adaptable to uncertainties. Comparative simulations verify the effectiveness of the proposed method.
A new type of high hardness coating for improving drill bit stability in unconventional oil and gas development
Authors: Xuan Lingchao , Wang Jiangshuai
Published: September 2023

In deep unconventional oil and gas development, the problem faced is that PDC bits are eroded by solid-liquid high-speed fluids, resulting in damage. It has led to serious damage to the stability of the drill bit, a decrease in the service life of the drill bit, and an increase in the difficulty in efficient drilling. The essence is that the surface hardness and erosion resistance of the drill bit are not strong enough. Therefore, improving the stability of drill bits is a crucial and urgent problem to be solved. In this paper, Ni60A + 20% WC + 0.3% graphene composite coatings were prepared on a Q235 steel substrate, which is a new type of high hardness coating. Moreover, the effects of microstructure and microhardness of the composite coatings at different laser powers (800 W, 1200 W, 1600 W, and 2000 W) were investigated. The results show that the laser power can significantly affect the microstructure of the coating. The phase composition of the composite coatings is essentially the same at different laser powers. However, there are significant differences in the content of each phase. When the laser power is higher than 1200W, the content of M23C6, Cr3C2 and Fe3C in the composite coating increases and the microhardness of the coating decreases. When the laser power is below 1200 W, the dilution rate of the substrate is low and a metallurgical bond cannot be formed between the composite coating and the substrate.
Influence of 36 years of integrated nutrient management on soil carbon sequestration, environmental footprint and agronomic productivity of wheat under rice-wheat cropping system
Authors: Ranjan Shivani , Kumar Sanjay , Dutta Swaraj Kumar , Padhan Smruti Ranjan , Dayal Parmeswar , Sow Sumit , Roy Dhirendra Kumar , Nath Dibyajyoti , Baral Kirttiranjan , Bharati Vikram
Published: September 2023

A long-term field experiment was conducted to study the effects of different combinations of integrated nutrient management (INM) on carbon sequestration and wheat yield in a rice-wheat cropping system. The experiment consisted of 11 treatments that were replicated three times. The organic manures used in the study included farmyard manure (FYM), wheat straw (WS), and green manure (GM) with Sesbania aculeata. The results of the experiment revealed that the application of 50% of the recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF) along with 50% nitrogen (N) through FYM during rice cultivation, and RDF during wheat cultivation, led to a significant increase in soil organic carbon (SOC). Specifically, the SOC content was enhanced by 46.4% (18.29 Mg ha-1) compared to RDF in rice and wheat, resulting in a C sequestration rate of 0.22 Mg ha-1 year-1. These increases were higher in treatments that combined organic and inorganic inputs. Additionally, the application of 50% RDF and substituting 50% of the nitrogen with FYM during wheat cultivation resulted in a 24.7% increase in grain yield compared to RDF in rice and wheat. The INM treatments, showed significantly (p ≤ 0.05) higher agronomic efficiency (AE) of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K), partial factor productivity (PFP) of N, P and K, and carbon pool index (CPI) compared to the application of inorganic fertilizers at the recommended dose. Moreover, the INM treatments also exhibited lower greenhouse gas (GHG) emission intensity. Application of neither chemical fertilizers nor organic manure (T1) resulted in maximum GHG emission intensity (328.1 kg CO2 eq Mg−1 yield). Based on these findings, it can be concluded that the combined use of inorganic fertilizers and organic manures significantly increased crop yield and soil organic carbon sequestration while reducing GHG emissions in a rice-wheat cropping system in the eastern Indo-Gangetic Plains (EIGP) of India.
Case report: De novo mutation of a-galactosidase A in a female patient with end-stage renal disease: report of a case of late diagnosis of Anderson–Fabry disease
Authors: Simonetta Irene , Riolo Renata , Todaro Federica , Donadio Vincenzo , Incensi Alex , Tuttolomondo Antonino
Published: September 2023

Background: Anderson–Fabry disease (AFD) is an X-linked disease that results from reduced activity of the enzyme galactosidase alpha (GLA). When the GLA gene sequence is altered by mutations that alter the normal DNA sequence, variants of the alpha-galactosidase A enzyme are produced, which may or may not function. These mutations are responsible for Fabry disease, and to date, over 800 different mutations of the gene have been described in patients with Anderson–Fabry disease. In this case, we report the case of a woman who is the sole family member with this type of mutation.

Case presentation: We report a case of a 52-year-old woman with end-stage chronic kidney disease in dialysis treatment. The patient’s alpha-galactosidase activity was 6.6 nmol/ml/h in whole blood, and lyso-GB3 levels were 11.45 nmol/L (normal range < 2.3 nmol/L). Alpha-galactosidase A gene sequence analysis revealed a pathogenic variant of c.947dupT in exon 6, leading to the p. I317NfsTer16 amino acid substitution. The genetic analysis did not detect the same mutation in any of the other screened family members.

Conclusion: The international Fabry disease genotype-phenotype database (dbFGP) reports a pathogenic variant c.947dupT in exon 6 that is probably associated with a classical phenotype of Fabry disease. In this case report, we report the case of a woman who is the sole family member with this type of pathogenic variant. Similar situations have not been described in the literature for this pathogenic variant, and it represents an important case of inter- and intrafamilial variability in patients with Fabry disease. The literature shows that de novo pathogenic variants are frequently found in the context of Fabry disease.
Genotype-by-socioeconomic status interaction influences heart disease risk scores and carotid artery thickness in Mexican Americans: the predominant role of education in comparison to household income and socioeconomic index
Authors: Diego Vincent P. , Manusov Eron G. , Mao Xi , Curran Joanne E. , Göring Harald , Almeida Marcio , Mahaney Michael C. , Peralta Juan M. , Blangero John , Williams-Blangero Sarah
Published: September 2023

Background:Socioeconomic status (SES) is a potent environmental determinant of health. To our knowledge, no assessment of genotype-environment interaction has been conducted to consider the joint effects of socioeconomic status and genetics on risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD). We analyzed Mexican American Family Studies (MAFS) data to evaluate the hypothesis that genotype-by-environment interaction (GxE) is an important determinant of variation in CVD risk factors.

Methods:We employed a linear mixed model to investigate GxE in Mexican American extended families. We studied two proxies for CVD [Pooled Cohort Equation Risk Scores/Framingham Risk Scores (FRS/PCRS) and carotid artery intima-media thickness (CA-IMT)] in relation to socioeconomic status as determined by Duncan’s Socioeconomic Index (SEI), years of education, and household income.

Results:We calculated heritability for FRS/PCRS and carotid artery intima-media thickness. There was evidence of GxE due to additive genetic variance heterogeneity and genetic correlation for FRS, PCRS, and CA-IMT measures for education (environment) but not for household income or SEI.

Conclusion:The genetic effects underlying CVD are dynamically modulated at the lower end of the SES spectrum. There is a significant change in the genetic architecture underlying the major components of CVD in response to changes in education.
The emerging role of lncRNAs in osteoarthritis development and potential therapy
Authors: Zhang Xiaofeng , Liu Qishun , Zhang Jiandong , Song Caiyuan , Han Zongxiao , Wang Jinjie , Shu Lilu , Liu Wenjun , He Jinlin , Wang Peter
Published: September 2023

Osteoarthritis impairs the functions of various joints, such as knees, hips, hands and spine, which causes pain, swelling, stiffness and reduced mobility in joints. Multiple factors, including age, joint injuries, obesity, and mechanical stress, could contribute to osteoarthritis development and progression. Evidence has demonstrated that genetics and epigenetics play a critical role in osteoarthritis initiation and progression. Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) have been revealed to participate in osteoarthritis development. In this review, we describe the pivotal functions and molecular mechanisms of numerous lncRNAs in osteoarthritis progression. We mention that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) could be biomarkers for osteoarthritis diagnosis, prognosis and therapeutic targets. Moreover, we highlight the several compounds that alleviate osteoarthritis progression in part via targeting lncRNAs. Furthermore, we provide the future perspectives regarding the potential application of lncRNAs in diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of osteoarthritis.
Innate immune response restarts adaptive immune response in tumors
Authors: Li Wen-shan , Zhang Qing-qing , Li Qiao , Liu Shang-yu , Yuan Guo-qiang , Pan Ya-wen
Published: September 2023

The imbalance of immune response plays a crucial role in the development of diseases, including glioblastoma. It is essential to comprehend how the innate immune system detects tumors and pathogens. Endosomal and cytoplasmic sensors can identify diverse cancer cell antigens, triggering the production of type I interferon and pro-inflammatory cytokines. This, in turn, stimulates interferon stimulating genes, enhancing the presentation of cancer antigens, and promoting T cell recognition and destruction of cancer cells. While RNA and DNA sensing of tumors and pathogens typically involve different receptors and adapters, their interaction can activate adaptive immune response mechanisms. This review highlights the similarity in RNA and DNA sensing mechanisms in the innate immunity of both tumors and pathogens. The aim is to enhance the anti-tumor innate immune response, identify regions of the tumor that are not responsive to treatment, and explore new targets to improve the response to conventional tumor therapy and immunotherapy.
Variability in thermal stress thresholds of corals across depths
Authors: Tavakoli-Kolour Parviz , Sinniger Frederic , Morita Masaya , Nakamura Takashi , Harii Saki
Published: September 2023

Mesophotic habitats are potential refugia for corals in the context of climate change. The seawater temperature in a mesophotic habitat is generally lower than in a shallow habitat. However, the susceptibility and threshold temperatures of mesophotic corals are not well understood. We compared 11 mesophotic and shallow species to understand their thermal stress thresholds using physiological parameters. Coral fragments were exposed to two thermal stress treatments, with temperatures set at ~30°C and ~31°C, and a low-temperature treatment set at ~28°C as the “no stress” condition for 14 days. We found that the threshold temperature of coral species at mesophotic depths is slightly lower or equal to that of corals in shallow depths. The results suggest that species in the mesophotic coral ecosystems can survive low (<4 degree heating weeks) thermal stress. However, mass bleaching and high mortality can be expected when temperatures rise above 4 degree heating weeks.
Factors controlling the distribution of dissolved organic carbon and nitrogen in the coastal waters off Jeju Island
Authors: Song Young Kyoung , Kim Jeonghyun , Oh Yong Hwa , Joung DongJoo , Kim Tae-Hoon
Published: September 2023

The composition of dissolved organic matter (DOM) in the coastal waters off Jeju Island, Korea, originates from a complex mixture of organic sources. This study examined the dynamics and sources of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) and dissolved organic nitrogen (DON) in the coastal waters off Jeju Island. Seasonal variation in the DOC and DON concentrations was observed, with significantly higher levels during summer (DOC: 82 ± 15 µM and DON: 6.8 ± 2.0 µM) than during the other seasons. In 2017, the Kuroshio Intermediate Water had a greater impact on the coastal waters off Jeju Island during winter (79%) and spring (69%) than during the other seasons, while the Changjiang Diluted Water (CDW) (12%) and the Kuroshio Surface Water (47%) had a stronger impact during summer and the Yellow Sea Cold Water (10%) had a stronger impact during autumn. Although water mass analysis provides valuable insights, certain aspects of the DOM distribution in coastal seawater remain unexplained. During summer, while the mixing of the CDW influenced the concentrations of DOC and DON, a distinct pulse in these concentrations was observed within a specific salinity range, suggesting microbial activity as a source. The relationship between dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN) and salinity also exhibited the opposite trend to that between DON and salinity, indicating the conversion of DON into DIN through microbial activity. These findings suggest that microbial activity plays a key role in the observed DOM pulse, transforming particulate organic matter into DOM and then converting it into DIN during the long transportation from Changjiang River to Jeju Island. This organic matter cycle could thus serve as a source of DIN in oligotrophic regions. However, further research on the sources and distribution of organic matter using biogeochemical parameters is required to gain a better understanding of the intricate processes involved.
The clinical characteristics of COVID-19 omicron variant infection in pregnant women and their neonates
Authors: Liu Li-Li , Lin Lv-Hua , Lin Fen , Yang Yi-Kang , Lin Chun-Fan , Zhang Lin , Huang Yu-Chan , Liao Yu-Wei , Zeng Yan-Qing , Zeng Guang-Kuan , Cao Yan-Bin , Zhu Rui-Zhen , Yang Li-Ye
Published: September 2023

Objective

The objective of this study was to analyze the clinical characteristics of pregnant women infected with the COVID-19 omicron variant and their neonates during the outbreak in Guangdong province, China.

Methods

The clinical data of pregnant women infected with the COVID-19 omicron variant and their neonates were retrospectively collected from two hospitals in Guangdong province. Information recorded included age of mother, date of birth, sex, weight at birth, mode of delivery, gestational age, feeding mode, Apgar score, signs, medical records, underlying comorbidities and laboratory results. The presence of SARS-CoV-2 viral RNA was tested using an real-time PCR assay.

Results

Seventy-nine pregnant women infected with COVID-19 omicron variant and their 68 neonates were included in this study. The vast majority (86.1%) of pregnant women was in their third trimester of pregnancy, and only 11 cases (15%) were in the first or second trimester. Of 79 pregnant women, 39 cases were asymptomatic at the time of infection, and 40 mothers presented with mild manifestations of COVID-19. The most common symptoms were fever (92.5%, 37/40) and cough (57.5%, 21/40). All of pregnant women did not receive chest computed tomography (CT) scan or X-ray. No pregnant woman developed severe pneumonia. A total of 68 neonates (3 set of twins) from 65 mothers with COVID-19 were reviewed. Among women who delivered, 34 cases underwent cesarean section, 31 cases underwent vaginal delivery. According to the timing of birth, there were 10 (14.7%) preterm neonates. Two babies were born dead (intrauterine fetal death after 22 weeks of gestation). Of the live babies born (66 cases) from mothers with COVID-19, 9 newborns were lower weight, and one preterm case was born with respiratory distress and intubated, he recovered and developed normally. SARS-CoV-2 nucleic acid testing was conducted on 41 neonates daily after birth, with only one neonate testing positive for SARS-CoV-2 infection on the third day after birth. The infected neonate exhibited typical fever and acute respiratory tract syndrome but ultimately had a good prognosis, recovering after 5 days of treatment.

Conclusion

Although preliminary data suggests the risk of severe maternal and fetal complications from Omicron variant infection during pregnancy is lower than previous variants and Delta variant. Our study, which was conducted on a limited population sample, indicates that there is a possibility of severe complications, such as stillbirth, occurring in some fetal cases. These findings emphasize the need for continued attention from obstetricians.