bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Palm Oil Fuel Ash Fineness in Modifying CBR Characteristics of Peat Soil
Authors: Dwina Dila Oktarise , Abiyoga Nurza Purwa , Nurdin Ade
Published: July 2024

Palm Oil Fuel Ash (POFA) is a waste product from the palm oil industry that often causes environmental problems. Its potential as a pozzolan for soil stabilization has been proven; however, the low CaO content makes it an ineffective sole stabilization material. Some researchers suggest reducing the particle size of pozzolan materials to optimize stabilization. This research aims to evaluate the effectiveness of increasing POFA particle fineness in peat stabilization. The study uses samples stabilized with fine and coarse POFA at 30%, 35%, and 40% of the soil's dry weight. California Bearing Ratio (CBR) tests were conducted after curing for 0, 7, 14, and 28 days. Test results show that the highest CBR values for samples with fine and coarse POFA are 5.48% and 5.80%, respectively, with coarse POFA consistently outperforming fine POFA at all curing times. For samples with the same curing time, the CBR value difference between 30% and 40% POFA is less than 1.00, except for fine POFA at 40% after 28 days, which is 1.25 higher than 30%. However, the performance of peat samples with 40% fine POFA is only comparable to those with 35% coarse POFA after 28 days. Based on these results, it can be seen that POFA is more effective as a filler rather than a pozzolan material for peat soil. As a filler, coarse POFA can better enhance the stability of peat.
Macro dynamics of inflation in the Turkish economy
Authors: Sarı Sacit
Published: July 2024

This study analyzes the macroeconomic determinants of inflation, a significant economic issue in national economies, using monthly data from January 2006 to January 2023 for the Turkish economy. Understanding inflation and its influencing factors is crucial for enhancing the effectiveness of disinflationary measures due to their adverse impacts on economic units. In this context, the relationship between inflation and selected macroeconomic variables was investigated for the Turkish economy. Based on the cointegration test results, it was established that the series are cointegrated. In the long term, money supply and interest rate variables positively impact inflation. Conversely, inflation is negatively impacted by the Industrial Production Index (IPI), which measures economic growth. This result indicates that increases in production capacity and economic growth reduce inflation. These findings suggest that the Turkish economy operates with underemployment and that monetary factors significantly impact inflation. The outcomes of the Granger causality analysis indicate a reciprocal causal relationship between inflation, money supply, and exchange rate.
Belirsiz kriter ağırlıkları altında yeni bir ÇKKV yöntemi: Yapay zekâ sohbet robotlarına (ChatGPT4, Copilot, Gemini) dayalı portföy seçimi üzerine bir uygulama
Authors: Göktaş Furkan , Güçlü Fatih
Published: July 2024

Çok kriterli karar verme (ÇKKV) problemlerinin en tartışmalı noktası kriter ağırlıklandırmadır. Çünkü farklı kriter ağırlıkları genellikle farklı sonuçların ortaya çıkmasına neden olur. Bu çalışmanın amacı kriter ağırlıklarının belirsiz olduğu durumda ÇKKV problemlerini çözebilmek için yeni bir yöntem geliştirmektir. Bu kapsamda bu çalışmada Belirsiz Kriter Ağırlıklarıyla Olabilirlik Değerlendirme Sistemi (U-PES) önerilmiştir. Uzman bilgisinden (yapay zekâ sohbet robotlarından) ve geçmiş veriden yararlanılarak Borsa İstanbul’da işlem gören sekiz adet hisse senedi ile portföy oluşturmada U-PES kullanılmıştır. Buradaki kriterler; beklenen getiri, standart sapma ve Çevresel-Sosyal-Kurumsal Yönetim (ESG) bileşenleri olarak belirlenmiştir. Yapılan uygulamada uzman bilgisi ya da geçmiş veri ile elde edilen sonuçlar arasında genellikle pozitif ama yüksek düzeyde olmayan ilişki olduğu bulunmuştur.
The Use of Cohesive Devices in Theses Abstracts Written by Undergraduate Students of English Department
Authors: Muhammad Akif Alwi  , Fani Indrawan
Published: July 2024

This study aims to find out the types of cohesive devices used by undergraduate students of English department in their theses’ abstracts and to find out the most and least dominant types of cohesive devices in their theses’ abstracts. The writer used corpus-based study as his research design. The data is taken from fifty randomly selected undergraduate theses’ abstracts written by English department students of IAIN Kediri. The technique of collecting data is documentation. This study exposes two main findings. First, the type of cohesive devices that are employed in undergraduate students’ theses’ abstracts, which are shown by reference (2051 items), conjunction (593 items), substitution (56 items), ellipsis (30 items), repetition (141 items), synonymy (40 items), antonymy (13 items). Second, the mostly used cohesive devices type by undergraduate students in their theses’ abstracts are reference with 2051 items (70.34%) occurrences and the least is antonymy with 13 items (0.44%) occurrences.
Analisis User Interface Website Organisasi Berbasis Task Centered System Design
Authors: Syarif Irwan , Aminuddin Rosihan , Rais Muh , Taha Syamsumarlin
Published: July 2024

Amal Insani merupakan salah satu lembaga kemanusiaan yang membantu sosial masyarakat dengan program kerja dalam kegiatan organisasi mereka. Dalam realitanya, Amal Insani membutuhkan website untuk menjadi media dalam menjangkau lebih banyak donatur dan memperkenalkan lembaga pada masyarakat luas. Dari permasalahan tersebut maka dibuatlah penelitian untuk merancang website lembaga kemanusiaan dengan menggunakan metode Task Centered System Design. Metode tersebut terdiri dari empat tahap yaitu identification, requirement, design as scenario dan walkthrough evaluate. Pada tahap identification, dilakukan identifikasi pengguna dan task yang diperlukan meggunakan framework PACT, kemudian pada tahap requirement dilakukan pemilihan task yang benar-benar dibutuhkan, selanjutnya di tahap design as scenario dilakukan perancangan design berdasarkan task menggunakan aplikasi figma, dan pada tahap evaluate dilakukan evaluasi terkait alur kerja dan usability dari website yang sudah dibangun menggunakan cognitive walkthrough dan SUS. Berdasarkan hasil evaluasi yang telah dilakukan dapat disimpulkan bahwa pengujian cognitive walkthrough dapat digunakan untuk menentukan aspek-aspek learnability, effectiveness dan efficiency sebuah interface, kemudian SUS digunakan untuk menentukan usability hasil design. Berdasarkan hasil pengujian cognitive, didapatkan nilai sebesar 95% untuk learnability dan effectiveness yang memiliki predikat “sangat baik”, dan nilai rata-rata efficiency sebesar 0,100012947 goal/second dengan predikat “sangat cepat”. Kemudian pengujian SUS menghasilkan nilai SUS sebesar 83 dengan predikat acceptable.
Faktor Risiko Diabetes Melitus Tipe-II Pada Remaja
Authors: Sanjaya Lalu Rodi , Yana Setiawan
Published: July 2024

Diabetes Melitus (DM) merupakan salah satu penyakit kronis (menahun) tidak menular dan masih menjadi permasalahan besar di Dunia. DM tidak hanya dialami oleh kalangan dewasa saja namun juga oleh para remaja. Faktor risiko terjadinya penyakit DM sebagaian besar bisa dimodifikasi, sehingga oleh karena itu peneliti tertarik untuk melakukan penelitian ini sedini mungkin di kalangan remaja. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalis faktor-faktor risiko terhadap penyakit DM pada remaja. Penelitian adalah jenis penelitian kuantitatif dengan desain analitik korelasional. Populasi siswa kelas X-XI dengan sampel berjumlah 100 orang. Data dikumpulkan menggunakan kuesioner, dan dianalisis menggunakan bantuan komputerisasi SPSS. Analisis statistik menggunakan chi-square untuk menilai hubungan antara variabel status gizi dengan nilai GDS (p-value=0,294) dan hubungan antara pola aktivitas dengan nilai GDS yaitu (p-value=0,780). Kesimpulan dalam penelitian ini tidak ada hubungan antara status gizi dan pola aktivitas dengan nilai GDS pada remaja.
Accelerated degradation testing impacts the degradation processes in 3D printed amorphous PLLA
Authors: Malone Luke P. , Best Serena M. , Cameron Ruth E.
Published: July 2024

Additive manufacturing and electrospinning are widely used to create degradable biomedical components. This work presents important new data showing that the temperature used in accelerated tests has a significant impact on the degradation process in amorphous 3D printed poly-l-lactic acid (PLLA) fibres. Samples (c. 100 μm diameter) were degraded in a fluid environment at 37°C, 50°C and 80 °C over a period of 6 months. Our findings suggest that across all three fluid temperatures, the fibres underwent bulk homogeneous degradation. A three-stage degradation process was identified by measuring changes in fluid pH, PLLA fibre mass, molecular weight and polydispersity index. At 37 °C, the fibres remained amorphous but, at elevated temperatures, the PLLA crystallised. A short-term hydration study revealed a reduction in glass transition (Tg), allowing the fibres to crystallise, even at temperatures below the dry Tg. The findings suggest that degradation testing of amorphous PLLA fibres at elevated temperatures changes the degradation pathway which, in turn, affects the sample crystallinity and microstructure. The implication is that, although higher temperatures might be suitable for testing bulk material, predictive testing of the degradation of amorphous PLLA fibres (such as those produced via 3D printing or electrospinning) should be conducted at 37 °C.
Insights into the stereoisomerism of dihydroquercetin: analytical and pharmacological aspects
Authors: Terekhov Roman P. , Savina Anastasiya D. , Pankov Denis I. , Korochkina Maria D. , Taldaev Amir , Yakubovich Liubov M. , Zavadskiy Sergey P. , Zhevlakova Anastasiya K. , Selivanova Irina A.
Published: July 2024

Dihydroquercetin (DHQ) is a representative of flavonoids that is available on the market as a food supplement and registered as an active pharmaceutical ingredient. The structure of this compound is characterized by the presence of two chiral centers in positions 2 and 3 of the pyranone ring. Current regulatory documentation on DHQ lacks quantitative analysis of the stereoisomers of this flavanonol. This poses potential risks for consumers of DHQ-based dietary supplements and developers of new drugs. This review was conducted to systematize data on the pharmacology of DHQ stereoisomers and the possible methods of controlling them in promising chiral drugs. We found that relying on literature data of polarimetry for the identification of DHQ stereoisomers is currently impossible due to these heterogeneities. NMR spectroscopy allows to distinguishing between trans- and cis-DHQ using chemical shifts values. Only HPLC is currently characterized by sufficient enantioselectivity. Regarding pharmacology, the most active stereoisomer of DHQ should be identified, if the substituents in chiral centers both take part in binding with the biological target. The significant impact of stereochemical structure on the pharmacokinetics of DHQ isomers was reported. The question about these toxicity of these compounds remains open. The results of the conducted review of scientific literature indicate the necessity of revising the pharmacology of DHQ taking into account its stereoisomerism.
Fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase deficiency: estimation of prevalence in the Chinese population and analysis of genotype-phenotype association
Authors: Ni Qi , Tang Meiling , Chen Xiang , Lu Yulan , Wu Bingbing , Wang Huijun , Zhou Wenhao , Dong Xinran
Published: July 2024

Objective

Fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase deficiency (FBP1D) is a rare inborn error due to mutations in the FBP1 gene. The genetic spectrum of FBP1D in China is unknown, also nonspecific manifestations confuse disease diagnosis. We systematically estimated the FBP1D prevalence in Chinese and explored genotype-phenotype association.

Methods

We collected 101 FBP1 variants from our cohort and public resources, and manually curated pathogenicity of these variants. Ninety-seven pathogenic or likely pathogenic variants were used in our cohort to estimate Chinese FBP1D prevalence by three methods: 1) carrier frequency, 2) permutation and combination, 3) Bayesian framework. Allele frequencies (AFs) of these variants in our cohort, China Metabolic Analytics Project (ChinaMAP) and gnomAD were compared to reveal the different hotspots in Chinese and other populations. Clinical and genetic information of 122 FBP1D patients from our cohort and published literature were collected to analyze the genotype-phenotypes association. Phenotypes of 68 hereditary fructose intolerance (HFI) patients from our previous study were used to compare the phenotypic differences between these two fructose metabolism diseases.

Results

The estimated Chinese FBP1D prevalence was 1/1,310,034. In the Chinese population, c.490G>A and c.355G>A had significantly higher AFs than in the non-Finland European population, and c.841G>A had significantly lower AF value than in the South Asian population (all p values < 0.05). The genotype-phenotype association analyses showed that patients carrying homozygous c.841G>A were more likely to present increased urinary glycerol, carrying two CNVs (especially homozygous exon1 deletion) were often with hepatic steatosis, carrying compound heterozygous variants were usually with lethargy, and carrying homozygous variants were usually with ketosis and hepatic steatosis (all p values < 0.05). By comparing to phenotypes of HFI patients, FBP1D patients were more likely to present hypoglycemia, metabolic acidosis, and seizures (all p-value < 0.05).

Conclusion

The prevalence of FBP1D in the Chinese population is extremely low. Genetic sequencing could effectively help to diagnose FBP1D.
Deep learning radiomics based on multimodal imaging for distinguishing benign and malignant breast tumours
Authors: Lu Guoxiu , Tian Ronghui , Yang Wei , Liu Ruibo , Liu Dongmei , Xiang Zijie , Zhang Guoxu
Published: July 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to develop a deep learning radiomic model using multimodal imaging to differentiate benign and malignant breast tumours.

Methods

Multimodality imaging data, including ultrasonography (US), mammography (MG), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), from 322 patients (112 with benign breast tumours and 210 with malignant breast tumours) with histopathologically confirmed breast tumours were retrospectively collected between December 2018 and May 2023. Based on multimodal imaging, the experiment was divided into three parts: traditional radiomics, deep learning radiomics, and feature fusion. We tested the performance of seven classifiers, namely, SVM, KNN, random forest, extra trees, XGBoost, LightGBM, and LR, on different feature models. Through feature fusion using ensemble and stacking strategies, we obtained the optimal classification model for benign and malignant breast tumours.

Results

In terms of traditional radiomics, the ensemble fusion strategy achieved the highest accuracy, AUC, and specificity, with values of 0.892, 0.942 [0.886–0.996], and 0.956 [0.873–1.000], respectively. The early fusion strategy with US, MG, and MRI achieved the highest sensitivity of 0.952 [0.887–1.000]. In terms of deep learning radiomics, the stacking fusion strategy achieved the highest accuracy, AUC, and sensitivity, with values of 0.937, 0.947 [0.887–1.000], and 1.000 [0.999–1.000], respectively. The early fusion strategies of US+MRI and US+MG achieved the highest specificity of 0.954 [0.867–1.000]. In terms of feature fusion, the ensemble and stacking approaches of the late fusion strategy achieved the highest accuracy of 0.968. In addition, stacking achieved the highest AUC and specificity, which were 0.997 [0.990–1.000] and 1.000 [0.999–1.000], respectively. The traditional radiomic and depth features of US+MG + MR achieved the highest sensitivity of 1.000 [0.999–1.000] under the early fusion strategy.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated the potential of integrating deep learning and radiomic features with multimodal images. As a single modality, MRI based on radiomic features achieved greater accuracy than US or MG. The US and MG models achieved higher accuracy with transfer learning than the single-mode or radiomic models. The traditional radiomic and depth features of US+MG + MR achieved the highest sensitivity under the early fusion strategy, showed higher diagnostic performance, and provided more valuable information for differentiation between benign and malignant breast tumours.
A randomized sham-controlled trial of transcranial and intranasal photobiomodulation in Japanese patients with mild cognitive impairment and mild dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease: a protocol
Authors: Yokoi Yuma , Inagawa Takuma , Yamada Yuji , Matsui Makoto , Tomizawa Asumi , Noda Takamasa
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Photobiomodulation (PBM) is a novel strategy for cognitive enhancement by improving brain metabolism and blood flow. It is potentially beneficial for patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). We present a study protocol for a randomised controlled trial designed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of PBM.

Method and analysis

This is a single-centre, parallel-group, randomised, sham-controlled study. We enroll patients with mild cognitive impairment or dementia due to AD and assigned them to receive either active or sham stimulation at home for 12 weeks, with three sessions per week (20 min each). The stimulation involves invisible near-infrared light delivered by five applicators (one in a nostril, one on the frontal scalp, and three on the occipital scalp). The primary outcome will be the mean change in the Alzheimer Disease Assessment Scale-cognition from baseline to Week 12. We will also measure cognitive function, activity of daily living, behavioral and psychological symptoms, and caregiver burden. We will collect data at clinics at baseline and Week 12 and remotely at home. We estimate a sample size of 30 (20 active and 10 sham) based on an expected mean difference of −6.9 and an SD of 4.8. We use linear models for the statistical analysis.

Ethics and dissemination

The National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry Clinical Research Review Board (CRB3200004) approved this study. The results of this study will be published in a scientific peer-reviewed journal. Trial registration details Japan Registry of Clinical Trials jRCTs032230339.
A narrative review on obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome in paediatric population
Authors: Vaienti Benedetta , Di Blasio Marco , Arcidiacono Luisa , Santagostini Antonio , Di Blasio Alberto , Segù Marzia
Published: July 2024

Obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome is a respiratory sleep disorder that affects 1–5% of children. It occurs equally in males and females, with higher incidence in school age and adolescence. OSAS may be caused by several factors, but in children, adenotonsillar hypertrophy, obesity, and maxillo-mandibular deficits are the most common. In general, there is a reduction in the diameter of the airway with reduced airflow. This condition worsens during sleep due to the muscular hypotonia, resulting in apnoeas or hypoventilation. While snoring is the primary symptom, OSAS-related manifestations have a wide spectrum. Some of these symptoms relate to the nocturnal phase, including disturbed sleep, frequent changes of position, apnoeas and oral respiration. Other symptoms concern the daytime hours, such as drowsiness, irritability, inattention, difficulties with learning and memorisation, and poor school performance, especially in patient suffering from overlapping syndromes (e.g., Down syndrome). In some cases, the child’s general growth may also be affected. Early diagnosis of this condition is crucial in limiting associated symptoms that can significantly impact a paediatric patient’s quality of life, with the potential for the condition to persist into adulthood. Diagnosis involves evaluating several aspects, beginning with a comprehensive anamnesis that includes specific questionnaires, followed by an objective examination. This is followed by instrumental diagnosis, for which polysomnography is considered the gold standard, assessing several parameters, including the apnoea-hypopnoea index (AHI) and oxygen saturation. However, it is not the sole tool for assessing the characteristics of this condition. Other possibilities, such as night-time video recording, nocturnal oximetry, can be chosen when polysomnography is not available and even tested at home, even though with a lower diagnostic accuracy. The treatment of OSAS varies depending on the cause. In children, the most frequent therapies are adenotonsillectomy or orthodontic therapies, specifically maxillary expansion.
The planet on our plates: approaches to incorporate environmental sustainability within food-based dietary guidelines
Authors: Dooren Corné van , Loken Brent , Lang Tim , Meltzer Helle Margrete , Halevy Sarah , Neven Loes , Rubens Kristof , Seves-Santman Marije , Trolle Ellen
Published: July 2024

For many decades, food-based dietary guidelines (FBDGs) were only health-oriented. This changed post-2009 when gradually, an increasing number of countries began to include environmental sustainability considerations in their guidelines. International organisations such as the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Health Organization (WHO) have stated that governments should include environmental sustainability in future FBDGs. However, methodologies on how this should be done are lacking. Therefore, through workshops and discussions with experts, we analysed a selection of methodologies and classified them into six groups: (1) health first; (2) additional advice; (3) demonstrating synergies; (4) modelling impact; (5) combining strategies; (6) systems first. We then assessed how innovative each approach was and their potential for transformative impact. Of the 6 approaches investigated, only approaches 5 and 6 could be considered as disruptive innovations and leading to major changes. Adding environmental sustainability into FBDGs is a policy innovation and has become a debate between old and new multi-criteria guidelines for eating. With the addition of environmental sustainability in FBDGS, a new or emerging set of multi-criteria guidelines for judging food are being proposed that challenges past norms and governance. Today, there is growing scientific consensus that diets that are good for human health are also good for the environment. There is also a growing recognition that food system change is inevitable and desirable. We see this as a positive opportunity to collaborate on FBDGs that are more appropriate for the 21st century and ambitious enough to meet the environmental challenges at hand.
Targeting the CD47/SIRPα pathway in malignancies: recent progress, difficulties and future perspectives
Authors: Jiang Chenyang , Sun Hao , Jiang Zhongxing , Tian Wenzhi , Cang Shundong , Yu Jifeng
Published: July 2024

Since its initial report in 2015, CD47 has garnered significant attention as an innate immune checkpoint, raising expectations to become the next “PD-1.” The optimistic early stages of clinical development spurred a flurry of licensing deals for CD47-targeted molecules and company mergers or acquisitions for related assets. However, a series of setbacks unfolded recently, starting with the July 2023 announcement of discontinuing the phase 3 ENHANCE study on Magrolimab plus Azacitidine for higher-risk myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). Subsequently, in August 2023, the termination of the ASPEN-02 program, assessing Evorpacept in combination with Azacitidine in MDS patients, was disclosed due to insufficient improvement compared to Azacitidine alone. These setbacks have cast doubt on the feasibility of targeting CD47 in the industry. In this review, we delve into the challenges of developing CD47-SIRPα-targeted drugs, analyze factors contributing to the mentioned setbacks, discuss future perspectives, and explore potential solutions for enhancing CD47-SIRPα-targeted drug development.
Novel diagnostic biomarkers for pancreatic cancer: assessing methylation status with epigenetic-specific peptide nucleic acid and KRAS mutation in cell-free DNA
Authors: Kim Hongsik , Chu Jinah , Do In-Gu , Lee Yong-Pyo , Kim Hee Kyung , Yang Yaewon , Kwon Jihyun , Lee Ki Hyeong , Batochir Chinbayar , Jo Eunji , Kim Kyo Rim , Han Hye Sook
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an aggressive tumor with a poor prognosis that poses challenges for diagnosis using traditional tissue-based techniques. DNA methylation alterations have emerged as potential and promising biomarkers for PDAC. In this study, we aimed to assess the diagnostic potential of a novel DNA methylation assay based on epigenetic-specific peptide nucleic acid (Epi-sPNA) in both tissue and plasma samples for detecting PDAC.

Materials and methods

The study involved 46 patients with PDAC who underwent surgical resection. Epi-TOP pancreatic assay was used to detect PDAC-specific epigenetic biomarkers. The Epi-sPNA allowed accurate and rapid methylation analysis without bisulfite sample processing. Genomic DNA extracted from paired normal pancreatic and PDAC tissues was used to assess the diagnostic efficacy of epigenetic biomarkers for PDAC. Subsequent validation was conducted on cell-free DNA (cfDNA) extracted from plasma samples, with 10 individuals represented in each group: PDAC, benign pancreatic cystic neoplasm, and healthy control.

Results

The combination of seven epigenetic biomarkers (HOXA9, TWIST, WT1, RPRM, BMP3, NPTX2, and BNC1) achieved 93.5% sensitivity and 96.7% specificity in discerning normal pancreatic from PDAC tissues. Plasma cfDNA, analyzed using these markers and KRAS mutations, exhibited a substantial 90.0% sensitivity, 95.0% specificity, and an overall 93.3% accuracy for discriminating PDAC. Notably, cancer antigen 19-9 and carcinoembryonic antigen both had an accuracy of 90.0%.

Conclusion

Our study suggests that analyzing seven differentially methylated genes with KRAS mutations in cfDNA using the novel Epi-TOP pancreatic assay is a potential blood-based biomarker for the diagnosis of PDAC.
Safe(r)-by-design principles in the thermoplastics industry: guidance on release assessment during manufacture of nano-enabled products
Authors: McLean Polly , Hanlon James , Salmatonidis Apostolos , Galea Karen S. , Brooker Finlay , Citterio Cristiano , Magni Daniele , Vázquez-Campos Socorro , Lotti Davide , Boyles Matthew S. P.
Published: July 2024

Background

The application of nanomaterials (NMs) and nano-enabled products (NEPs) across many industries has been extensive and is still expanding decades after first being identified as an emerging technology. Additive manufacturing has been greatly impacted and has seen the benefits of integrating NMs within products. With the expansion of nanotechnology, there has been a need to develop more adaptive and responsive methods to ascertain risks and ensure technology is developed safely. The Safe(r)-by-Design (SbD) concept can be used to establish safe parameters and minimise risks during the materials’ lifecycle, including the early stages of the supply chain. Exposure monitoring has advanced in recent years with the creation of standardised protocols for occupational exposure assessment of nano-objects and their aggregates and agglomerates (NOAA).

Methods

To aid in the development of an online SbD-supporting platform by the EU-funded project SAbyNA, we adopt a Europe Standard for monitoring release of NOAA to identify if a greater release of NOAA is associated with incorporation of NMs within NEPs compared to a polymer matrix alone. Case studies included filaments of polypropylene (PP) with nano-Ag or polycarbonate (PC) with single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs). NMs were received in masterbatch, and therefore previously modified to align with SbD interventions. Results were collected in line with European Standard recommendations: monitoring particle concentrations using direct reading instruments (DRI), sampling for offline chemical and morphological analysis, and collecting contextual information.

Results and discussion

Based on the criteria described in the European standard (BS EN 17058), data from both case studies identified that inhalation exposure relating to NM was “unlikely”. Despite this, during the production of the SWCNT-PC filaments, some noteworthy observations were made, including several DRI activity measurements shown to be higher than background levels, and material morphologically similar to the reference SWCNT/polymeric masterbatch observed in offline analysis. The data collected during this campaign were used to discuss choices available for data interpretation and decision-making in the European Standard for monitoring release of NOAA and also to facilitate the development of SAbyNA’s user-friendly industry platform for the SbD of NMs and NEPs.
Investigating the role of a Tannerella forsythia HtrA protease in host protein degradation and inflammatory response
Authors: Bloch Susanne , Hager-Mair Fiona F. , Bacher Johanna , Tomek Markus B. , Janesch Bettina , Andrukhov Oleh , Schäffer Christina
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Degradation of host proteins by bacterial proteases leads to the subversion of the host response and disruption of oral epithelial integrity, which is considered an essential factor in the progression of periodontitis. High-temperature requirement A (HtrA) protease, which is critical for bacterial survival and environmental adaptation, is found in several oral bacteria, including the periodontal pathogen Tannerella forsythia. This study investigated the proteolytic activity of HtrA from T. forsythia and its ability to modulate the host response.

Methods

HtrA of T. forsythia was identified bioinformatically and produced as a recombinant protein. T. forsythia mutants with depleted and restored HtrA production were constructed. The effect of T. forsythia wild-type, mutants and recombinant HtrA on the degradation of casein and E-cadherin was tested in vitro. Additionally, the responses of human gingival fibroblasts and U937 macrophages to the different HtrA-stimuli were investigated and compared to those triggered by the HtrA-deficient mutant.

Results

T. forsythia wild-type producing HtrA as well as the recombinant enzyme exhibited proteolytic activity towards casein and E-cadherin. No cytotoxic effect of either the wild-type, T. forsythia mutants or rHtrA on the viability of host cells was found. In hGFB and U937 macrophages, both T. forsythia species induced an inflammatory response of similar magnitude, as indicated by gene and protein expression of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-8, tumour necrosis factor α and monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)-1. Recombinant HtrA had no significant effect on the inflammatory response in hGFBs, whereas in U937 macrophages, it induced a transient inflammatory response at the early stage of infection.

Conclusion

HtrA of T. forsythia exhibit proteolytic activity towards the host adhesion molecule E-cadherin and has the potential to influence the host response. Its role in the progression of periodontitis needs further clarification.
The roles of phosphorylation of signaling proteins in the prognosis of acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Márton Adrienn , Veres Katalin Beáta , Erdődi Ferenc , Udvardy Miklós , Illés Árpád , Rejtő László
Published: July 2024

Signaling pathways of Retinoblastoma (Rb) protein, Akt-kinase, and Erk-kinase (extracellular signal-regulated kinase) have an important role in the pathogenesis of acute myeloid leukemia. Constitutive activation of these proteins by phosphorylation contributes to cell survival by regulation of cell cycle, proliferation and proapoptotic signaling processes. According to previous data phosphorylated forms of these proteins represent a worse outcome for cancer patients. We investigated the presence of phosphorylated Rb (P-Rb), Akt (P-Akt) and Erk (P-Erk) proteins by Western blot technique using phospho-specific antibodies in bone marrow or peripheral blood samples of 69 AML patients, 36 patients with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) and 10 healthy volunteers. Expression level of PTEN (Phosphatase and tensin homolog) and PHLPP (PH domain and leucine-rich repeat Protein Phosphatase) phosphatases, the negative regulators of Akt kinase pathway were also examined. We tested the effect of these proteins on survival and on the correlation with known prognostic features in AML. We found 46.3% of AML patients had detectable P-Rb, 34.7% had P-Akt and 28.9% had P-Erk protein. 66.1% of patients expressing PTEN, 38.9% PHLPP, 37.2% both PTEN and PHLPP and 32.2% neither PTEN nor PHLPP phosphatases. Compared to nucleophosmin mutation (NPMc) negative samples P-Erk was significantly less in nucleophosmin mutated patients, P-Rb was significantly less in patients’ group with more than 30 G/L peripheral leukocyte count by diagnosis. PHLPP was significantly present in FAB type M5. The expression of P-Rb represented significant better overall survival (OS), while P-Akt represented significantly worse event-free survival (EFS) in unfavorable cytogenetics patients. The presence of both PHLPP and PTEN phosphatases contributes to better OS and EFS, although the differences were not statistically significant. We confirmed significant positive correlation between P-Akt and PHLPP. Assessing the phosphorylation of Rb, Akt and Erk may define a subgroup of AML patients who would benefit especially from new targeted treatment options complemented the standard chemotherapy, and it may contribute to monitoring remission, relapse or progression of AML.
Design of Reverse Bleed Slot for Curved Axisymmetric Inlet Based on Kantrowitz Criterion and Flow Field Characteristics
Authors: Li Yongzhou , Sun Di , Tian Xinhui , Yuan Yiqi , Luo Xisheng , Zhang Kunyuan
Published: July 2024

Conventional forward bleed slots reduce the hypersonic inlet starting Mach number but suffer from excessive flow leakage after restart. This paper proposes a novel reverse bleed slot design method for curved axisymmetric inlets of a solid-fuel scramjet. Leveraging the Kantrowitz criterion and detailed flow analysis, the method optimizes bleed slot placement, number, area, and angle. Results show superior aerodynamic performance by placing slots in the non-starting region of the internal compression section, considering both unstarted flow and separation bubble dynamics during restart. Each bleed slot area is calculated successively down-stream based on the Kantrowitz criterion. Finally, the effects of bleed slot angle have been extensively studied. The key inlet performance reaches its optimum at a slot angle of approximately 130°, achieving a significant reduction in the starting Mach number (from 4.80 to 3.65) and a 50% decrease in bleed flow rate compared to the forward slot design. This method demonstrates its feasibility and effectiveness, enabling substantial improvement in inlet starting performance with minimal flow loss.
Multi-Object Tracking with Grayscale Spatial-Temporal Features
Authors: Xu Longxiang , Wu Guosheng
Published: July 2024

In recent multiple object tracking (MOT) research, there have not been many traditional methods and optimizations for matching. Most of today’s popular tracking methods are implemented using deep learning. But many monitoring devices do not have high computing power, so real-time tracking via neural networks is difficult. Furthermore, matching takes less time than detection and embedding, but it still takes some time, especially for many targets in a scene. Therefore, in order to solve these problems, we propose a new method by using grayscale maps to obtain spatial-temporal features based on traditional methods. Using this method allows us to directly find the position and region in previous frames of the target and significantly reduce the number of IDs that the target needs to match. At the same time, compared to some end-to-end paradigms, our method can quickly obtain spatial-temporal features using traditional methods, which reduces some calculations. Further, we joined embedding and matching to further reduce the time spent on tracking. Our method reduces the calculations in feature extraction and reduces unnecessary matching in the matching stage. Our method was evaluated on benchmark dataset MOT16, and it achieved great performance; the tracking accuracy metric MOTA reached 46.7%. The tracking FPS reached 17.6, and it ran only on a CPU without GPU acceleration.
Coil Parameter Optimization Method for Wireless Power Transfer System Based on Crowding Distance Division and Adaptive Genetic Operators
Authors: Zhang Hua , Sui Xin , Sui Peng , Wei Lili , Huang Yuanchun , Yang Zhenglong , Yang Haidong
Published: July 2024

In a Magnetically Coupled Resonant Wireless Power Transfer (MCR-WPT) system, the magnetic coupling coil is one of the key factors that determines the system’s output power, transmission efficiency, anti-offset capability, and so on. This article proposes a coil parameter optimization method for a wireless power transfer system based on crowding distance division and adaptive genetic operators. Through optimizing the design of decision variables, such as the numbers of transmitting and receiving coil turns, the spacings between transmitting and receiving coil turns, the inner radii of the transmitting and receiving coils, and the vertical distance of the coil, the best transmission performance can be achieved. This study improves the NSGA-II algorithm through proposing a genetic operator algorithm for average crowding and high crowding populations based on adaptive operators, as well as a genetic operator algorithm for low crowding populations based on information entropy. These improved algorithms avoid problems inherent to traditional genetic operators such as fixed genetic proportions, do not easily cause the algorithm to fall into a local optimal solution, and show better convergence in the ZDT1–ZDT3 test functions. The optimization design method in this article is not only independent of commercial software such as ANSYS Maxwell 2021 R1, but can also significantly improve the calculation speed compared with traditional simulation software.
Strengthening Power Systems for Net Zero: A Review of the Role of Synchronous Condensers and Emerging Challenges
Authors: Soleimani Hamid , Habibi Daryoush , Ghahramani Mehrdad , Aziz Asma
Published: July 2024

System strength is both supplied and demanded in a power system during normal operations and in the presence of disturbances. This is characterised by stable voltage and frequency, supporting renewable generation such as wind and solar. Because the retirement of synchronous generators reduces system strength supply, and the connection of new inverter-based resource (IBR) generators increases demand, there is an urgent need for new sources of system strength. This paper provides an overview of the challenges brought about by grid modernisation. It highlights tangible solutions provided by synchronous condensers (SCs) to bolster grid strength, stability, and reliability while accommodating the rising influx of renewable energy sources (RESs). Furthermore, this paper examines the role of SCs in improving weak grids, voltage control, power quality, short-circuit levels, and inertia management. It introduces the role of innovative hybrid synchronous condenser (HSC) systems to boost grid reliability and resilience. It also elaborates on the optimisation strategies for SC sizing, placement, and control and outlines economic aspects of their deployment. The review also highlights future directions and challenges in SC technology, emphasising the need for ongoing research and development to enhance system design and operation.
An Analysis of the Use of Mining Waste from Coal Mines in Flood and Road Embankments
Authors: Morman-Wątor Justyna , Pilecka Elżbieta
Published: July 2024

This article presents the possibilities of using mining waste from hard coal mines in flood and road embankments. For this reason, the management of mining waste is a very important issue. It was proposed to use mining waste to build flood embankments that also serve as a road. The results of research and numerical analyses using the Finite Element Method (FEM) are presented for the example of mining waste from the Sobieski Mining Plant. The results of testing the physical and mechanical properties of the waste, waste with the addition of 8% Portland cement and waste with the addition of 8% metallurgical cement are presented. The results of laboratory tests showed better physical and mechanical properties for mining waste with the addition of metallurgical cement. The results of the numerical analyses showed that no flood embankment built of mining waste alone retained the required stability coefficient according to Polish requirements (FoS > 1.3) at the highest flood wave. The best result is achieved by the flood embankment in the variant—the road being on the side of the air slope, built from mining waste with the addition of 8% metallurgical cement; this has the highest stability coefficient, both without a vehicle load (FoS = 1.72) and with a vehicle load (FoS = 1.67).
Experimental Study on Heat Transfer Characteristics of Radiant Cooling and Heating
Authors: Chen Shengpeng , Ma Xiaohui , Han Chaoling
Published: July 2024

While traditional air conditioning systems serve their purpose, radiation air conditioning systems provide several benefits, including improved comfort, higher energy efficiency, and lower initial costs. Nevertheless, the heat exchange capacity per unit area of the radiation plate in such systems is somewhat restricted, which directly affects their practical engineering applications. To address this, experimental investigations were undertaken to examine the impact of cold/hot water supply temperature, water flow velocity, and surface emissivity of radiant panels on their heat transfer characteristics for both summer cooling and winter heating. The findings highlight the significant influence of water supply temperature, flow rate, and surface emissivity on the heat transfer properties of the radiant plates. It is worth noting that adjustments to the water flow rate and surface emissivity impose limitations on enhancing the radiant plate heat transfer performance. For instance, in summer, the heat transfer coefficient of the roughly machined light alumina plate radiant panel was determined by fitting the experimental heat transfer data against characteristic temperatures. Specifically, during cooling, the total heat transfer coefficient of the radiant plate was calculated as 6.77 W/(m2·K), comprising a thermal coefficient of 5.41 W/(m2·K) and a convective heat transfer coefficient of 4.17 W/(m2·K). Conversely, during winter heating, the total heat transfer coefficient of the radiant plate increased to 8.94 W/(m2·K), with a radiation heat transfer coefficient of 6.13 W/(m2·K) and a convective heat transfer coefficient of 3.79 W/(m2·K).
Mutual Inductance Estimation of SS-IPT System through Time-Domain Modeling and Nonlinear Least Squares
Authors: Mo Liping , Wang Xiaosheng , Wang Yibo , Zhang Ben , Jiang Chaoqiang
Published: July 2024

Inductive power transfer (IPT) systems are pivotal in various applications, relying heavily on the accurate estimation of mutual inductance to enable system interoperability discrimination and optimal efficiency tracking control. This paper introduces a novel mutual inductance estimation method for Series-Series IPT (SS-IPT) systems, utilizing time-domain modeling combined with nonlinear least squares. Initially, the time-domain model of SS-IPT systems is developed by deriving its ordinary differential equations (ODEs). Subsequently, the mutual inductance is estimated directly from these ODEs using a nonlinear least-squares approach. This approach necessitates only primary-side information, eliminating the need for communication, supplementary equipment, or frequency scanning. The simplicity and directness of using collected real-time data enhance the practical applicability of our approach. The effectiveness of the proposed method is substantiated through simulations and experimental data. Results demonstrate that the estimation accuracy of our method remains more than 95.0% in simulations and more than 92.5% in experimental data.
Hybrid Energy Storage Power Adaptive Optimization Strategy Based on Improved Model Predictive Control and Improved DBO-VMD
Authors: Huo Junda , Huo Jianwen
Published: July 2024

In order to optimize the operation of the energy storage system (ESS) and allow it to better smooth renewable energy power fluctuations, an ESS power adaptive optimization strategy is proposed. Firstly, based on the real-time state of charge (SOC) of the ESS, an adaptive weight coefficient is introduced to improve the model predictive control (MPC), and the grid-connected power and the total power of the ESS after smoothing the original photovoltaic output are obtained. Then, the variational mode decomposition (VMD) algorithm optimized by the improved dung beetle optimizer (DBO) algorithm (MSADBO) is proposed to decompose the total power, and the initial distribution of power is completed by combining the ESS characteristics. Finally, considering the charging and discharging times, SOC, and grid-connected volatility of the ESS, and aiming to address the shortcomings of traditional methods, a new ESS power optimization strategy is proposed. According to the simulation results, when compared to the conventional method, the proposed strategy improves the adaptability of ESS operation, reduces the number of ESS charging and discharging conversions, and ensures that the SOC does not exceed the limit when the ESS is operating and the wind power grid-connected fluctuation rate meets the requirements.
Short-Term Wind Power Prediction Based on Multi-Feature Domain Learning
Authors: Xue Yanan , Yin Jinliang , Hou Xinhao
Published: July 2024

Wind energy, as a key link in renewable energy, has seen its penetration in the power grid increase in recent years. In this context, accurate and reliable short-term wind power prediction is particularly important for the real-time scheduling and operation of power systems. However, many deep learning-based methods rely on the relationship between wind speed and wind power to build a prediction model. These methods tend to consider only the temporal features and ignore the spatial and frequency domain features of the wind power variables, resulting in poor prediction accuracy. In addition to this, existing power forecasts for wind farms are often based on the wind farm level, without considering the impact of individual turbines on the wind power forecast. Therefore, this paper proposes a wind power prediction model based on multi-feature domain learning (MFDnet). Firstly, the model captures the similarity between turbines using the latitude, longitude and wind speed of the turbines, and constructs a turbine group with similar features as input based on the nearest neighbor algorithm. On this basis, the Seq2Seq framework is utilized to achieve weighted fusion with temporal and spatial features in multi-feature domains through high-frequency feature extraction by DWT. Finally, the validity of the model is verified with data from a wind farm in the U.S. The results show that the overall performance of the model outperforms other wind farm power prediction algorithms, and reduces MAE by 25.5% and RMSE by 20.6% compared to the baseline persistence model in predicting the next hour of wind power.