bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Patterns of European Ant Communities Reveal a Functionally Coherent Holarctic Fauna
Authors: Hoffmann Benjamin D. , Andersen Alan N.
Published: February 2023

Here we examine the extent to which European patterns of ant diversity and functional composition conform with those documented in North America. Following protocols previously used in North America, ant species distribution and behavioural dominance were quantified at fifteen sites on two environmental gradients, one following elevation (140–1830 m) in France and the other tree cover (0–95%) in Denmark. Pitfall traps were used to assess species distributions, and behaviour at tuna baits was used to inform behavioural dominance. We specifically test three predictions based on North American patterns: (1) Species richness and overall levels of behavioural dominance will decline with increasing thermal stress. (2) Geographic patterns of key taxa in Europe will be consistent with those in North America. (3) Behavioural dominance of European taxa will be consistent with related taxa in North America. We then use our results to classify the European ant fauna into functional groups, as had been done for North American ants. Based on these functional groups, we analyse distributional patterns along our gradients and re-analyse ant community data from published studies to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the structure of European ant communities. Distributional and behavioural predictions of the European ant taxa were consistent with those in North America. Geographical patterns of functional-group composition were very similar to those previously recorded for North America, varying systematically and predictably along the environmental gradients. Our findings indicate that there is a functionally coherent ant fauna throughout the Holarctic.
Social Capital and Posttraumatic Growth of Students with Acquired Visual Impairment in Japanese Schools for the Blind
Authors: Matsuda Erika , Miyauchi Hisae
Published: February 2023

The induction of posttraumatic growth (PTG) is important for realizing the reintegration of people with acquired visual impairment to society. In Japan, many of these individuals receive education at schools for the blind as enrolled students. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between cognitive and structural social capital at schools for the blind and the PTG of students with acquired visual impairment. A questionnaire survey was conducted among students enrolled in vocational courses at schools for the blind throughout Japan. The results of the analysis of data from a sample of 255 students indicated that cognitive social capital with peers and teachers and structural social capital indicated by the frequency of participation in school club activities and interaction with local people were positively related to PTG. The findings highlight that social capital at schools for the blind are associated with markers of PTG in students with acquired visual impairment. Moreover, the findings highlight the value of schools for the blind with regards to the social participation of students with acquired visual impairment.
A Low-Power Ternary Adder Using Ferroelectric Tunnel Junctions
Authors: Reuben John , Fey Dietmar , Lancaster Suzanne , Slesazeck Stefan
Published: February 2023

Computing systems are becoming more and more power-constrained due to unconventional computing requirements like computing on the edge, in-sensor, or simply an insufficient battery. Emerging Non-Volatile Memories are explored to build low-power computing circuits, and adders are one among them. In this work, we propose a low-power adder using a Ferroelectric Tunnel Junction (FTJ). FTJs are two-terminal devices where the data is stored in the polarization state of the device. An FTJ-based majority gate is proposed, which uses a current-mode sensing technique to evaluate the majority of the inputs. By conditionally selecting between the majority and its complement, an XOR operation is implemented, thereby achieving full-adder functionality. Since FTJ-based majority operation is slow, a ternary adder architecture is used to compensate for the speed loss. The ternary adder proposed by us has two stages of full adder and requires O(1) time for n-bit addition. The proposed adder is verified using a simulation in CMOS 130 nm technology. A 32-bit addition can be achieved in 100 μs and consumes 0.78 pJ, which is very power efficient (7.8 nW). The proposed adder can be used in applications where power consumption is crucial, and speed is not a strict requirement.
Hybrid Classifiers for Spatio-Temporal Abnormal Behavior Detection, Tracking, and Recognition in Massive Hajj Crowds
Authors: Alafif Tarik , Hadi Anas , Allahyani Manal , Alzahrani Bander , Alhothali Areej , Alotaibi Reem , Barnawi Ahmed
Published: February 2023

Individual abnormal behaviors vary depending on crowd sizes, contexts, and scenes. Challenges such as partial occlusions, blurring, a large number of abnormal behaviors, and camera viewing occur in large-scale crowds when detecting, tracking, and recognizing individuals with abnormalities. In this paper, our contribution is two-fold. First, we introduce an annotated and labeled large-scale crowd abnormal behavior Hajj dataset, HAJJv2. Second, we propose two methods of hybrid convolutional neural networks (CNNs) and random forests (RFs) to detect and recognize spatio-temporal abnormal behaviors in small and large-scale crowd videos. In small-scale crowd videos, a ResNet-50 pre-trained CNN model is fine-tuned to verify whether every frame is normal or abnormal in the spatial domain. If anomalous behaviors are observed, a motion-based individual detection method based on the magnitudes and orientations of Horn–Schunck optical flow is proposed to locate and track individuals with abnormal behaviors. A Kalman filter is employed in large-scale crowd videos to predict and track the detected individuals in the subsequent frames. Then, means and variances as statistical features are computed and fed to the RF classifier to classify individuals with abnormal behaviors in the temporal domain. In large-scale crowds, we fine-tune the ResNet-50 model using a YOLOv2 object detection technique to detect individuals with abnormal behaviors in the spatial domain. The proposed method achieves 99.76% and 93.71% of average area under the curves (AUCs) on two public benchmark small-scale crowd datasets, UMN and UCSD, respectively, while the large-scale crowd method achieves 76.08% average AUC using the HAJJv2 dataset. Our method outperforms state-of-the-art methods using the small-scale crowd datasets with a margin of 1.66%, 6.06%, and 2.85% on UMN, UCSD Ped1, and UCSD Ped2, respectively. It also produces an acceptable result in large-scale crowds.
A Comprehensive Evaluation of Off-Grid Photovoltaic Experiences in Non-Interconnected Zones of Colombia: Integrating a Sustainable Perspective
Authors: Eras-Almeida Andrea A. , Vásquez-Hernández Tatiana , Hurtado-Moncada Merlyn Johanna , Egido-Aguilera Miguel A.
Published: February 2023

This research presents the findings of an evaluation of off-grid photovoltaic (PV) systems and their sustainability models in Colombia within the “Evaluation of Isolated Photovoltaic Systems and Their Sustainability Models” project supported by the Global Environment Fund (GEF). It involves the analysis of primary and secondary information on the photovoltaic energy projects for rural electrification in this country. Part of the information was obtained through interviews with different stakeholders who work in solar electrification in non-interconnected zones (NIZ), covering rural and island contexts. It was complemented by a comparative analysis of international projects implemented in Latin America. The results are shown as lessons learned, with a SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats) study representing the current situation of rural electrification with PV technology as perceived and describing the opportunities for the improvement of rural electrification strategies based on the successful experiences in the region. This research offers a comprehensive overview of how Colombian electrification could be led to address the last mile gap, integrating a solid sustainable perspective for the long-term view and ensuring community involvement towards a just energy transition. Therefore, this study proposes a series of guidelines to support those public policies that foster access to energy in the rural non-interconnected zones of Colombia.
CFD Analysis of Solar Greenhouse Thermal and Humidity Environment Considering Soil–Crop–Back Wall Interactions
Authors: Si Changqing , Qi Fei , Ding Xiaoming , He Fen , Gao Zhenjun , Feng Qian , Zheng Liang
Published: February 2023

In the study of solar greenhouses, microclimate, soil, and back walls have an important influence on the greenhouse thermal environment because of their good heat storage and release characteristics. The transpiration of crops makes indoor humidity increase sharply, which is the main factor affecting indoor humidity distribution. Therefore, it is of great significance to grasp the microclimate change law of solar greenhouses and study the coupling effect of thermal and humidity environment. In this paper, based on computational fluid dynamics (CFD), a three-dimensional model of the thermal and humidity environment of a solar greenhouse is established, and the indoor temperature and humidity distribution under the influence of soil, crops, and back walls are considered. The CFD model initialization uses binary fitting functions to fit the temperature distribution of soil, back wall, and air. The distribution law of the temperature field and relative humidity field of the solar greenhouse under three different working conditions is simulated, that is, the insulation is uncovered and the ventilation window is closed during the day (G1), the insulation is uncovered and the ventilation window is opened during the day (G2), and the insulation is put down and the ventilation window is closed at night. (G3). The results show that the simulation results are in good agreement with the actual results under the three working conditions, and this paper can provide a reference for the improvement of the greenhouse structure and environmental regulation.
Voltage Control Market Integration: Technical and Regulatory Challenges for the Greek Electricity Market
Authors: Sousounis Marios-Charilaos , Floros Epameinondas , Paterakis Fotios-Konstantinos , Dikaiakos Christos , Moraitis Ioannis
Published: February 2023

Stochastic power generation is the new reality in power system management. Voltage Control mechanisms based on physical assets of the power system are deemed inadequate and are not guaranteed to lead the energy transformation in a way that ensures system security as well as cost-effective operation. Many countries that recently attained deregulated Balancing Market environments are in need of regulatory provisions and rigorous extension of electricity market mechanisms. On 1 November 2020, the Greek Electricity Market commenced operations conforming to the European Target Model. Apart from the innate difficulties a transformation such as this contains, more challenges occur as Greece is bound by European law to design market-based incentive mechanisms to remunerate Ancillary Services provided to the power system. This paper aims to examine some of the technical and regulatory aspects linked with—future—Transmission System Operator (TSO) and Distribution System Operator (DSO) cooperation in overcoming local transmission system problems concerning Voltage regulation. The interaction between localized Voltage Control Market (VCM) and the Balancing Market, the incorporation and competition of Distributed Energy Resources (DER) and Transmission Energy Resources (TER) within the VCM along with the TSO - DSO procedures and products standardization are the focus points of the present research paper.
State of Health Estimation and Remaining Useful Life Prediction for a Lithium-Ion Battery with a Two-Layer Stacking Regressor
Authors: Yuan Jun , Qin Zhili , Huang Haikun , Gan Xingdong , Li Shuguang , Li Baihai
Published: February 2023

The development of a machine-learning method with high accuracy, high generalization, and strong robustness for evaluating battery health states is essential in the field of battery health management. In this work, the data-driven stacking regressor (SR) method with a two-layer diagnostic framework was proposed to estimate the state of health (SOH) and predict the remaining useful life (RUL). Five individual estimators were merged in the first layer, including bagging, gradient boosting regression (GBR), support vector regression (SVR), Hist-GBR, and AdaBoost, and linear regression (LR) was used in the second layer to construct the SR model. The SR model produces highly accurate results without the requirement of excessive parameter adjustment. Fifteen batteries from the NASA dataset were used for our experiments, resulting in rather low values of average root mean square error (ARMSE) and relative error (RE) for the SOH estimation and RUL predictions of the different batteries, demonstrating the superiority of the SR model.
Optimal Cooperative Power Management Framework for Smart Buildings Using Bidirectional Electric Vehicle Modes
Authors: Naji EL idrissi Rajaa , Ouassaid Mohammed , Maaroufi Mohamed , Cabrane Zineb , Kim Jonghoon
Published: February 2023

The high potential for implementing demand management approaches across multiple objectives has been significantly enhanced. This study proposes a cooperative energy management strategy based on the end-user sharing of energy. The proposed method promotes the intelligent charging and discharging of EVs to achieve vehicle-to-anything (V2X) and anything-to-vehicle (X2V) operating modes for both integrated and nonrenewable residential applications. These sharing modes have already been discussed, but resolution approaches are applicable to a specific use case. Other application cases may require additional metrics to plan the fleet of electric vehicles. To avoid that problem, this study proposes the MIP method using a robust Gurobi optimiser based on a generic framework for cooperative power management (CPM). Moreover, the CPM ensures an overall target state of charge (SoC) at leaving time for all the vehicles without generating a rebound peak in total grid power, even without introducing photovoltaic power. Two different methods are proposed based on the flow direction of the EV power. The first method only includes the one-way power flow, while the second increases the two-way power flow between vehicles, operating in vehicle-to-vehicle or vehicle-to-loads modes. A thorough analysis of the findings of the proposed model was conducted to demonstrate the robustness and efficiency of the charging and discharging schedule of several EVs, favouring a sharing economy concept, reducing peak power, and increasing user comfort.
Photosensitivity of Nanostructured Schottky Barriers Based on GaP for Solar Energy Applications
Authors: Rud Vasily , Melebaev Doulbay , Krasnoshchekov Viktor , Ilyin Ilya , Terukov Eugeny , Diuldin Maksim , Andreev Alexey , Shamuhammedowa Maral , Davydov Vadim
Published: February 2023

This work investigates the surface-barrier photoelectric properties of Au-palladium-n-GaP structures. Research into the visible spectrum region, under the action of both linearly polarized and natural radiation, provides us with new information about the height of the barrier, the interface m-s section, and the GaP band structure. SBs based on GaP (p- and n-type) are helpful for researchers in developing advantageous structures for creating various photovoltaic devices—photodetectors for fiber-optic control of energy systems or possible structures for solar energy. Despite many years of research, issues concerning the band structure of semiconductors based on the phenomenon of photoelectroactive absorption in such surface-barrier structures’ m-s remain urgent in the creation of new high-performance devices. Such structures may also be interesting for creating solar energy systems. They create a thin insulating dielectric layer (usually an oxide layer) in solar cells on SBs between the m and the semiconductor substrate. The advantage of solar cells based on m dielectric semiconductor structures is the strong electric field near the surface of the semiconductor that usually has a direction favoring the collection of carriers created by short-wavelength light. Diffusion of impurities usually results in crystal defects in the active region. There are no such defects in the studied elements. This is also the difference between solar cells on m dielectric structures and elements with diffusion in p-n junctions. We studied the PS of Au-Pd-n-GaP nanostructures to determine the height of the potential barrier qφBo and obtained accurate data on the zone structure of the n-GaP. The PS of nanostructured Au-Pd-n-GaP structures was studied in the visible region of the spectrum. Essential information about the semiconductor’s potential barrier parameters and band structure was obtained. The intermediate Pd nanolayer between Au and GaP has specific effects on the Au-Pd-n-GaP nanostructure, which are of considerable practical and scientific significance for future needs.
Integration of Local and Central Control Empowers Cooperation among Prosumers and Distributors towards Safe, Efficient, and Cost-Effective Operation of Microgrids
Authors: Tenti Paolo , Caldognetto Tommaso
Published: February 2023

The advent of energy communities will revolutionize the energy market. However, exploiting their full potential requires innovations in the structure and management of low-voltage grids. End users shall be aggregated within microgrids, where their physical interaction is possible and coordinated operation of power sources and energy storage systems can be achieved. Moreover, meshed network topologies will enable multiple paths for the power flow. The combination of smart control and meshed networks can dramatically improve microgrid performance in terms of power quality, efficiency, and resilience to transients and faults. Ubiquitous control of the power flow becomes possible, as well as active fault clearing and isolation of subgrids without tripping circuit breakers. This paper proposes a control approach that pursues such goals without requiring modification of control and communication hardware implemented in commercial inverters. Instead, a revision of control firmware, integrated with local measurements, allows retrofitting existing plants to improve microgrid operation. Further improvements may derive from the installation of community power sources and energy storage systems, which can extend microgrid operation to pursue demand response and islanding. The potential of the proposed control methods is demonstrated by simulation considering a standard microgrid under different operating conditions.
Characteristics of Porosity Distribution and Gas Migration in Different Layers of Comprehensive Working Face Goaf
Authors: Ma Qian , Xue Junhua , Shi Yu , Zeng Xiangzhen
Published: February 2023

The fracture field and permeability distribution model of comprehensive working face goaf was integrated upon the theoretical examination to investigate the fracture field distribution law of goaf and gas migration and accumulation characteristics, and this model has been applied to the mathematical model of gas migration and accumulation in goaf. The ANSYS FLUENT numerical simulation software was used to obtain the characteristics of gas migration and accumulation in goaf and its influencing factors and analyze the applicability of solving the features of gas migration and proliferation using the porosity model of layer division in goaf. The results were as follows: the porosity around the caving zone was a little big, whereas the porosity in the middle was a little small. The porosity was almost equal along the inclination and strike in a symmetrical distribution. The porosity occurred at the fracture zone with an “O” shape. As the gob layer height increased, the porosity tended to be small. The maximum value of the porosity of the goaf would shrink to the middle of the goaf with the increase of gob layer height. The gas mass fraction along the goaf inclination showed the growth characteristics of “exponential function”, the gas mass fraction along the goaf strike on the air inlet side showed the growth characteristics of “Boltzmann function”, and the gas mass fraction along the goaf strike on the air outlet roadway side manifested the growth characteristics of “linear function”. The main influencing factors were air leakage speed, negative pressure, and porosity distribution. The distribution model of porosity and permeability of different layers of gob can more accurately simulate the characteristics of gas migration and storage.
Nonlocal Elasticity for Nanostructures: A Review of Recent Achievements
Authors: Barretta Raffaele , Marotti de Sciarra Francesco , Vaccaro Marzia Sara
Published: February 2023

Recent developments in modeling and analysis of nanostructures are illustrated and discussed in this paper. Starting with the early theories of nonlocal elastic continua, a thorough investigation of continuum nano-mechanics is provided. Two-phase local/nonlocal models are shown as possible theories to recover consistency of the strain-driven purely integral theory, provided that the mixture parameter is not vanishing. Ground-breaking nonlocal methodologies based on the well-posed stress-driven formulation are shown and commented upon as effective strategies to capture scale-dependent mechanical behaviors. Static and dynamic problems of nanostructures are investigated, ranging from higher-order and curved nanobeams to nanoplates. Geometrically nonlinear problems of small-scale inflected structures undergoing large configuration changes are addressed in the framework of integral elasticity. Nonlocal methodologies for modeling and analysis of structural assemblages as well as of nanobeams laying on nanofoundations are illustrated along with benchmark applicative examples.
Comparison of the Foraging Activity of Bats in Coniferous, Mixed, and Deciduous Managed Forests
Authors: Węgiel Andrzej , Grzywiński Witold , Jaros Radosław , Łacka Agnieszka , Węgiel Jolanta
Published: February 2023

The aim of this study was to compare the foraging activity of bats in coniferous, deciduous, and mixed forests and to test whether this activity was subject to seasonal variation. Sample points were selected in stands of similar spatial structure in coniferous (Pinus sylvestris L.), in mixed (Pinus sylvestris and Quercus petraea (Matt.) Liebl.), and in deciduous (Quercus petraea) managed forests in western Poland. Bat calls were recorded using automated ultrasound recording devices (Batcorder 3.0, ecoObs, Nürnberg, Germany) during five consecutive nights from May to September in each of the six stands. A total of 4250 bat passes were recorded. Overall, 63.1% of bat passes were identified to species, 31.6% were identified to genus or sonotype group, and 5.3% remained unidentified. In total, eight species of bats and seven sonotype groups were recorded. The dominant species in all types of forests were Pipistrellus pygmaeus (44.5% of recorded bat passes), followed by Nyctalus noctula (10.3%) and Pipistrellus nathusii (5.7%). There were no significant differences in the total activity of bats between the three types of forests; however, high seasonal fluctuations in bat foraging activity were found. This study demonstrates that when coniferous, deciduous, and mixed stands with similar spatial structure are compared, forest type does not affect the foraging activity of bats.
Spatial Distribution and Population Structure of Himalayan Fir (Abies pindrow (Royle ex D.Don) Royle) in Moist Temperate Forests of the Kashmir Region
Authors: Alam Nuzhat Mir , Shaheen Hamayun , Manzoor Muhammad , Tinghong Tan , Arfan Muhammad , Idrees Muhammad
Published: February 2023

Abies pindrow is a keystone tree species of temperate forests in the Himalayan range with immense ecological significance. The current study was designed to investigate the spatial distribution, population structure, associated flora, and sustainability of Abies pindrow in the temperate forests of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), Pakistan. Vegetation data were collected from 48 forest sites distributed in six districts of AJK with respect to the geography, microclimates, and vegetation structure by employing a systematic quadrate-based methodology. Abies pindrow populations were characterized by an average stem density of 183.9 trees/ha with an average basal area cover of 789 cm. A. pindrow populations showed a regeneration value of 555.6 seedlings/ha. A digital elevation model revealed that A. pindrow exhibited a large extent of distribution in an altitudinal range of 1800–3400 m. GIS analysis identified that north-facing slopes with a moderate degree of slope steepness constitutes the preferred habitat of the species in the Kashmir mountains. A floristic analysis revealed that a total of 282 species from 74 plant families comprised the associated flora of A. pindrow-dominated forests with Pinus wallichiana, Picea smithiana, Aesculus indica, and Viburnum grandiflorum as codominant companion species. A. pindrow forests exhibited significant levels of species diversity and richness with average values of Simpson’s diversity as 0.94, Shannon’s diversity as 3.09, species richness as 1.45, and maturity index value as 45.9%. The A. pindrow populations in the study area were found to be subjected to significant deforestation pressure along with overgrazing and erosion impacts. Results provide valuable scientific information for the conservation management of A. pindrow populations, ensuring the sustainability of temperate forest ecosystems in the Western Himalayan region of Kashmir.
Ecological and Soil Data Applied to Conservation Management of an Urban Forest
Authors: Wavrek Mia T. , Jean-Philippe Sharon , McKinney Michael L.
Published: February 2023

Urban ecosystems have great potential for urban biodiversity conservation, but achieving conservation goals relies on comprehensive ecological assessments to assist in active management practices; however, land use changes in urban ecosystems have led to unique abiotic and biotic inputs that have affected and altered below-ground soil composition, with potentially negative implications across trophic levels. We investigated the relationships between soil attributes and key indicators of forest health, specifically the composition and condition of vegetation and soils in an urban remnant forest area. The major findings revealed a dominance of native plant species, with some invasion by non-native plants, and acidic high-carbon soils sufficient in most plant available nutrients. Moreover, stepwise regression analysis showed significant relationships between soil attributes and native species diversity and abundance; prevalence of invasive plants (Lonicera maackii, Pueraria montana, Albizia julibrissin, Ligustrum sinense, Lonicera japonica, Ailanthus altissima, and Paulownia tomentosa); forest canopy gaps; and fine woody debris on the forest floor. These findings identified attributes of urban soils affecting forest health and biodiversity conservation, with broad implications for the long-term monitoring of urban forests.
Quantum Computing for Healthcare: A Review
Authors: Ur Rasool Raihan , Ahmad Hafiz Farooq , Rafique Wajid , Qayyum Adnan , Qadir Junaid , Anwar Zahid
Published: February 2023

In recent years, the interdisciplinary field of quantum computing has rapidly developed and garnered substantial interest from both academia and industry due to its ability to process information in fundamentally different ways, leading to hitherto unattainable computational capabilities. However, despite its potential, the full extent of quantum computing’s impact on healthcare remains largely unexplored. This survey paper presents the first systematic analysis of the various capabilities of quantum computing in enhancing healthcare systems, with a focus on its potential to revolutionize compute-intensive healthcare tasks such as drug discovery, personalized medicine, DNA sequencing, medical imaging, and operational optimization. Through a comprehensive analysis of existing literature, we have developed taxonomies across different dimensions, including background and enabling technologies, applications, requirements, architectures, security, open issues, and future research directions, providing a panoramic view of the quantum computing paradigm for healthcare. Our survey aims to aid both new and experienced researchers in quantum computing and healthcare by helping them understand the current research landscape, identifying potential opportunities and challenges, and making informed decisions when designing new architectures and applications for quantum computing in healthcare.
Influence of Pig Genetic Line and Salt Reduction on Peptide Production and Bioactivity of Dry-Cured Hams
Authors: Muñoz-Rosique Beatriz , Hernández-Correas Noelia , Abellán Adela , Bueno Estefanía , Gómez Rafael , Tejada Luis
Published: February 2023

Ham (Jamón) is a product of great value in Spanish gastronomy, although experts have recommended reducing its consumption due to its high salt content and its relationship with cardio-vascular diseases due to the increase in blood pressure it may cause. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate how the reduction of salt content and the pig genetic line influence bioactivity in boneless hams. For this purpose, 54 hams were studied, 18 boneless Iberian hams (RIB), 18 boneless white hams from commercial cross-bred pigs (RWC), and 18 salted and traditionally processed Iberian hams (TIB) to check if the pig genetic line (RIB vs. RWC) or the processing (RIB vs. TIB) affect the peptide production and bioactivity of the hams. The pig genetic line significantly affected the activity of ACE-I and DPPH, with RWC having the highest ACE-I activity and RIB having the highest antioxidative activity. This coincides with the results obtained in the identification of the peptides and the bioactivity analysis performed. Salt reduction positively affected the different hams, influencing their proteolysis and increasing their bioactivity in traditionally cured hams.
The Interplay of Dietary Fibers and Intestinal Microbiota Affects Type 2 Diabetes by Generating Short-Chain Fatty Acids
Authors: Mazhar Muhammad , Zhu Yong , Qin Likang
Published: February 2023

Foods contain dietary fibers which can be classified into soluble and insoluble forms. The nutritional composition of fast foods is considered unhealthy because it negatively affects the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). Dietary fiber is resistant to digestive enzymes in the gut, which modulates the anaerobic intestinal microbiota (AIM) and fabricates SCFAs. Acetate, butyrate, and propionate are dominant in the gut and are generated via Wood–Ljungdahl and acrylate pathways. In pancreatic dysfunction, the release of insulin/glucagon is impaired, leading to hyperglycemia. SCFAs enhance insulin sensitivity or secretion, beta-cell function, leptin release, mitochondrial function, and intestinal gluconeogenesis in human organs, which positively affects type 2 diabetes (T2D). Research models have shown that SCFAs either enhance the release of peptide YY (PYY) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) from L-cells (entero-endocrine), or promotes the release of leptin hormone in adipose tissues through G-protein receptors GPR-41 and GPR-43. Dietary fiber is a component that influences the production of SCFAs by AIM, which may have beneficial effects on T2D. This review focuses on the effectiveness of dietary fiber in producing SCFAs in the colon by the AIM as well as the health-promoting effects on T2D.
Novel Method of Increased Efficiency Corn Drying on a Fixed Bed by Condensation
Authors: Fu Daping , Wu Wenfu , Wang Guiying , Xu Hong , Han Feng , Liu Zhe
Published: February 2023

Exhaust air recycling is a simple and commonly used technique to save energy when using a dryer. The fixed-bed drying test device with increased efficiency by condensation is a clean and energy-saving drying test device developed by combining exhaust air recycling and condensation dehumidification technology. In this paper, through comparisons with or without exhaust air circulation using the single factor test of drying process parameters and the response surface test of corn drying on this test device to investigate the energy-saving effect and drying characteristics resulting from the novel drying method of increased efficiency by condensation. We drew the following main conclusions: (1) increased efficiency drying by condensation resulted in an energy savings of 32–56% compared with the conventional open hot air drying; and (2) during the increased efficiency corn drying by condensation, the mean energy and exergy efficiencies were within 31.65–51.26% and 41.69–63.52%, respectively, when the air temperature was in the 30–55 °C range, and they were 24.96–65.28% and 30.40–84.90%, respectively, when the air passed through the grain layer at 0.2–0.6 m/s; both of these increased with increasing air temperature, and decreased with increasing air velocity. These conclusions may constitute an important reference for investigating the energy-saving drying process of increased efficiency by condensation and developing relevant energy-saving drying equipment.
Development, Characterization and Sensory Evaluation of an Extruded Snack Using Fig Molasses By-Product and Corn Semolina
Authors: Boluk Ismail , Kumcuoglu Seher , Tavman Sebnem
Published: February 2023

The effects of extrusion process parameters on the physicochemical, pasting and technological properties of ready-to-eat snacks were evaluated. The aim was to develop fortified extruded products with fig molasses by-product powder (FMP), which is created as a result of the production of fig molasses, is not currently used in food industry, and may cause environmental problems. The feed humidity was changed to 14–17–20%, the die temperature was 140–160–180 °C and the ratio of FMP was 0–7–14% at a fixed screw speed of 325 rpm. The study showed that adding FMP to extruded products had a significant effect on colour properties, water solubility and water absorption index properties. İncreasing the FMP ratio had a significant reducing effect on dough properties of non-extruded mixtures such as peak viscosity (PV), final viscosity (FV) and setback viscosity (SB). The optimum conditions for the production of snacks were found to be 7% FMP, 155.44 °C die temperature and 14.69% humidity. It was determined that the estimated values of water absorption index (WAI) and water solubility index (WSI) for the products manufactured under ideal extrusion conditions were close to the obtained values, and that there was no significant difference between the estimated values of the other response variables and their actual values.
Assessing Spurious Correlations in Big Search Data
Authors: Richman Jesse T. , Roberts Ryan J.
Published: February 2023

Big search data offers the opportunity to identify new and potentially real-time measures and predictors of important political, geographic, social, cultural, economic, and epidemiological phenomena, measures that might serve an important role as leading indicators in forecasts and nowcasts. However, it also presents vast new risks that scientists or the public will identify meaningless and totally spurious ‘relationships’ between variables. This study is the first to quantify that risk in the context of search data. We find that spurious correlations arise at exceptionally high frequencies among probability distributions examined for random variables based upon gamma (1, 1) and Gaussian random walk distributions. Quantifying these spurious correlations and their likely magnitude for various distributions has value for several reasons. First, analysts can make progress toward accurate inference. Second, they can avoid unwarranted credulity. Third, they can demand appropriate disclosure from the study authors.
The Molecular and Cellular Basis of Hutchinson–Gilford Progeria Syndrome and Potential Treatments
Authors: Batista Noelle J. , Desai Sanket G. , Perez Alexis M. , Finkelstein Alexa , Radigan Rachel , Singh Manrose , Landman Aaron , Drittel Brian , Abramov Daniella , Ahsan Mina , Cornwell Samantha , Zhang Dong
Published: February 2023

Hutchinson–Gilford progeria syndrome (HGPS) is a rare, autosomal-dominant, and fatal premature aging syndrome. HGPS is most often derived from a de novo point mutation in the LMNA gene, which results in an alternative splicing defect and the generation of the mutant protein, progerin. Progerin behaves in a dominant-negative fashion, leading to a variety of cellular and molecular changes, including nuclear abnormalities, defective DNA damage response (DDR) and DNA repair, and accelerated telomere attrition. Intriguingly, many of the manifestations of the HGPS cells are shared with normal aging cells. However, at a clinical level, HGPS does not fully match normal aging because of the accelerated nature of the phenotypes and its primary effects on connective tissues. Furthermore, the epigenetic changes in HGPS patients are of great interest and may play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of HGPS. Finally, various treatments for the HGPS patients have been developed in recent years with important effects at a cellular level, which translate to symptomatic improvement and increased lifespan.
NAD(P)H Quinone Oxidoreductase-1 Expression Promotes Self-Renewal and Therapeutic Resistance in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Madajewski Brian , Boatman Michael A. , Martinez Ivan , Carter Julia H. , Bey Erik A.
Published: February 2023

Identifying cellular drivers responsible for enhancing cancer cell resistance to therapeutics provides critical information for designing more effective drugs. Populations of slowly growing, self-renewing, chemo-resistant cells purportedly contribute to the development of therapeutic resistance in many solid tumors. In the current study, we implemented a tumor spheroid model to determine whether NAD(P)H quinone oxidoreductase-1 (NQO1) was requisite for self-renewal and promotion of the drug-resistant phenotype in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). We found that stable depletion of NQO1 in A549 and H358 human NSCLC tumor models inhibits self-renewal capabilities, as demonstrated by a reduced ability to form primary, secondary, and tertiary spheroids. In contrast, the rescue of NQO1 expression restored the tumor cells’ ability to form spheroids. Additionally, we discovered that NQO1 depletion renders cisplatin-refractory tumor spheroids highly susceptible to drug treatment. Together, these results suggest that NQO1 loss reduces the self-renewing capabilities of NSCLC cells and enhances their susceptibility to clinically relevant therapeutics. These findings describe a novel role for NQO1 and suggest that combining NQO1-inhibitors with conventional chemotherapeutics may enhance anti-tumor effects.
Harnessing Genomic Analysis to Explore the Role of Telomeres in the Pathogenesis and Progression of Diabetic Kidney Disease
Authors: Hill Claire , Duffy Seamus , Coulter Tiernan , Maxwell Alexander Peter , McKnight Amy Jayne
Published: February 2023

The prevalence of diabetes is increasing globally, and this trend is predicted to continue for future decades. Research is needed to uncover new ways to manage diabetes and its co-morbidities. A significant secondary complication of diabetes is kidney disease, which can ultimately result in the need for renal replacement therapy, via dialysis or transplantation. Diabetic kidney disease presents a substantial burden to patients, their families and global healthcare services. This review highlights studies that have harnessed genomic, epigenomic and functional prediction tools to uncover novel genes and pathways associated with DKD that are useful for the identification of therapeutic targets or novel biomarkers for risk stratification. Telomere length regulation is a specific pathway gaining attention recently because of its association with DKD. Researchers are employing both observational and genetics-based studies to identify telomere-related genes associated with kidney function decline in diabetes. Studies have also uncovered novel functions for telomere-related genes beyond the immediate regulation of telomere length, such as transcriptional regulation and inflammation. This review summarises studies that have revealed the potential to harness therapeutics that modulate telomere length, or the associated epigenetic modifications, for the treatment of DKD, to potentially slow renal function decline and reduce the global burden of this disease.
Experiences of Primary Healthcare Workers in Australia towards Women and Girls Living with Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C): A Qualitative Study
Authors: Ogunsiji Olayide , Ogbeide Anita Eseosa , Ussher Jane
Published: February 2023

Female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) is a harmful cultural practice with significant health consequences for affected women and girls. Due to migration and human mobility, an increasing number of women with FGM/C are presenting to healthcare facilities of western countries (including Australia) where the practice is non-prevalent. Despite this increase in presentation, the experiences of primary healthcare providers in Australia engaging and caring for women/girls with FGM/C are yet to be explored. The aim of this research was to report on the Australian primary healthcare providers’ experiences of caring for women living with FGM/C. A qualitative interpretative phenomenological approach was utilised and convenience sampling was used to recruit 19 participants. Australian primary healthcare providers were engaged in face-to-face or telephone interviews, which were transcribed verbatim and thematically analysed. Three major themes emerged, which were: exploring knowledge of FGM/C and training needs, understanding participants’ experience of caring for women living with FGM/C, and mapping the best practice in working with women. The study shows that primary healthcare professionals had basic knowledge of FGM/C with little or no experience with the management, support, and care of affected women in Australia. This impacted their attitude and confidence to promote, protect, and restore the target population’s overall FGM/C-related health and wellbeing issues. Hence, this study highlights the importance of primary healthcare practitioners being skilled and well-equipped with information and knowledge to care for girls and women living with FGM/C in Australia.
Cardiotoxicity of Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors in Philadelphia-Positive Leukemia Patients
Authors: Berisha Adriatik , Placci Angelo , Piccaluga Pier Paolo
Published: February 2023

In the past twenty years, tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) have substantially changed the therapeutic landscape and the clinical outcome of several cancers, including Philadelphia-chromosome positive chronic myeloid leukemia and acute lymphoblastic leukemia, chronic eosinophilic syndromes, gastrointestinal stromal tumors, and others. Despite the obvious advantages offered in terms of efficacy and the overall safety profile, this new class of agents presents novel side effects, sometimes different from those induced by conventional chemotherapy. Among others, the potential cardiac toxicity, characterized by possible arrhythmias and the highest rates of cardiac ischemic disease and heart failure, were predominantly investigated. In this article, the authors review the most significant evidence in this regard, highlighting the overall benefit of TKI usage and the need for careful monitoring, especially in elderly patients.
Ink Tone Analysis of Printed Character Images towards Identification of Medieval Korean Printing Technique: The Song of Enlightenment (1239), the Jikji (1377), and the Gutenberg Bible (~1455)
Authors: Yoo Woo Sik
Published: February 2023

To identify printing techniques for medieval Korean books, ink tone analysis of printed characters is proposed. Ink tones of printed character images in two ancient books, The Song of Enlightenment with Commentaries by Buddhist Monk Nammyeong Cheon (南明泉和尙頌證道歌), designated as Korean treasures in 1984 and 2012, were compared and analyzed. Both books have been misidentified and disclosed by the Cultural Heritage Administration of Korea as woodblock-printed versions from the Goryeo dynasty of Korea in the 13th century. Ink tone analysis showed clear differences in brightness histograms between printed characters on the two books, suggesting printing technique differences. Statistical ink tone analysis of printed characters in the two books revealed totally different brightness (or darkness) histograms of pixels, within inked areas, suggesting differences in printing techniques and materials used for the two books. Ink tone analysis was performed for the Jikji (直指: metal type printed in Korea in 1337) and the Gutenberg Bible (metal type printed in Europe around 1455) for comparisons. As additional references, the ink tone analysis was conducted for two sets of old Korean books titled Myeongeuirok (明義錄), printed in 1777, and Sok-Myeongeuirok (續明義錄), printed in 1778, using both metal type and re-carved woodblocks. The Gongin version of The Song of Enlightenment, designated as a Korean treasure in 2012, showed very similar distribution and average brightness of ink with the metal-type-printed books from Korea and Europe from the 14th to 18th centuries. All metal-type-printed books from Korea and the Gutenberg Bible showed spotty prints with lighter ink tones and more symmetrical histograms compared with woodblock-printed Korean books from the 14th to 18th centuries. Ink tone analysis of printed character images can provide additional insights into a printing technique identification method. It is additional evidence for metal type printing of the Gongin version (空印本) of The Song of Enlightenment, designated as a Korean treasure in 2012. The version of interest is the world’s oldest extant book, printed using metal type in Korea in September 1239, as indicated in the imprint. This predates Jikji (1377) by 138 years and the 42-line Gutenberg Bible (~1455) by 216 years.