bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Progression-Free and Overall Survival of First-Line Treatments for Advanced Renal Cell Carcinoma: Indirect Comparison of Six Combination Regimens
Authors: Ossato Andrea , Mengato Daniele , Chiumente Marco , Messori Andrea , Damuzzo Vera
Published: March 2023

Background: Recently, numerous combination therapies based on immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitors have been proposed as first-line treatments for advanced renal cell carcinoma (aRCC). Our study aimed to compare the efficacy of these combination regimens by the application of an innovative method that reconstructs individual patient data. Methods: Six phase III studies describing different combination regimens for aRCC were selected. Individual patient data were reconstructed from Kaplan–Meier (KM) curves through the “Shiny method”. Overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were compared among combination treatments and sunitinib. Results were summarized as multi-treatment KM curves. Standard statistical testing was used, including hazard ratio and likelihood ratio tests for heterogeneity. Results: In the overall population of aRCC patients, pembrolizumab + lenvatinib showed the longest median PFS and was expected to determine the longest OS. Pembrolizumab + axitinib, nivolumab + cabozantinib and nivolumab + ipilimumab were similar in terms of PFS, but pembrolizumab + axitinib also demonstrated a better OS. Our subgroup analysis showed that sunitinib is still a valuable option, whereas, in intermediate-poor risk patients, pembrolizumab + axitinib and nivolumab + ipilimumab significantly improve OS compared to sunitinib. Conclusion: The Shiny method allowed us to perform all head-to-head indirect comparisons between these agents in a context in which “real” comparative trials have not been performed.
Defective PrOx for Efficient Electrochemical NO2−-to-NH3 in a Wide Potential Range
Authors: Jia Shunhan , Tan Xingxing , Wu Limin , Feng Jiaqi , Zhang Libing , Xu Liang , Wang Ruhan , Sun Xiaofu , Han Buxing
Published: March 2023

Electrocatalytic reduction of nitrite (NO2−) is a sustainable and carbon-neutral approach to producing green ammonia (NH3). We herein report the first work on building defects on PrOx for electrochemical NO2− reduction to NH3, and demonstrate a high NH3 yield of 2870 μg h−1 cm−2 at the optimal potential of –0.7 V with a faradaic efficiency (FE) of 97.6% and excellent FEs of >94% at a wide given potential range (−0.5 to −0.8 V). The kinetic isotope effect (KIE) study suggested that the reaction involved promoted hydrogenation. Theoretical calculations clarified that there was an accelerated rate-determining step of NO2− reduction on PrOx. The results also indicated that PrOx could be durable for long-term electrosynthesis and cycling tests.
Investigation on Microstructure and Properties of the Electrodeposited Ni-SiC Composite Coating
Authors: Li Gen , Chen Zhixiang , Tan Zhiwen , Tian Ran , Zhao Yuantao , Wang Lianbo , Li Wenge , Liu Yanbo
Published: March 2023

The current work synthesized Ni-SiC composite coating with different SiC microparticle contents. The role of the SiC microparticle in designing the Ni-SiC composite microstructure was revealed. The SiC microparticle physically interrupted the continuous growth of the underlying columnar Ni grains. The columnar Ni grain between the embedded SiC microparticle grew without disturbance. Only upon SiC microparticles was a new layer starting with refined Ni grains observable. The vertical columnar Ni grains reappeared as the position departed the SiC microparticle upper surface. The increase in the contents of the SiC microparticle led to an increased level of grain refinement and the elimination of the (200) fiber texture. Besides that, the number of V-shaped valleys increased as well. Corrosion testing results show that the corrosion resistance of Ni-SiC composite coating increased with the increased SiC contents, which was mainly due to the optimized microstructure.
Effect of Aging State on the Microstructure and Tensile Properties of Al-7.0Zn-2.5Mg-2.0Cu-0.1Zr-0.2Sc Alloy
Authors: Jiang Xueyu , Che Xin , Zhu Mingxi , Liu Chunbo
Published: March 2023

Tensile experiments were conducted for Al-7.0Zn-2.5Mg-2.0Cu-0.1Zr-0.2Sc alloy in different aging states (18 h, 24 h, 36 h) with temperature environments including room temperature, −10 °C and −30 °C. Comparative studies were made on the evolution of the precipitate phase in alloys at three kinds of aging times and the evolution of tensile properties in alloys under different ambient temperatures. The findings showed that the precipitates in Al-7.0Zn-2.5Mg-2.0Cu-0.1Zr-0.2Sc alloy were mainly in the GP zone after the solution + aging treatment η’ phase, the secondary Al3 (Sc, Zr) phase and the θ’ (Al2Cu) phase. As the aging time was prolonged, the η’ phase gradually grew and the PFZ gradually widened. At the three test temperatures, the tensile strength (TS) and yield strength (YS) of the alloys both showed a trend of first increasing before decreasing with the extension of aging time, while the elongation (A) and section shrinkage (Z) showed a decreasing trend. As the test temperature decreased, the TS and YS of the alloys increased and the A and Z of the alloys decreased. At room temperature, alloys showed a ductile fracture mode, which changed to mixed ductile and brittle fracture with decreasing test temperature.
Imaging in Gastric Cancer: Current Practice and Future Perspectives
Authors: Giandola Teresa , Maino Cesare , Marrapodi Giuseppe , Ratti Michele , Ragusi Maria , Bigiogera Vittorio , Talei Franzesi Cammillo , Corso Rocco , Ippolito Davide
Published: March 2023

Gastric cancer represents one of the most common oncological causes of death worldwide. In order to treat patients in the best possible way, the staging of gastric cancer should be accurate. In this regard, endoscopy ultrasound (EUS) has been considered the reference standard for tumor (T) and nodal (N) statuses in recent decades. However, thanks to technological improvements, computed tomography (CT) has gained an important role, not only in the assessment of distant metastases (M status) but also in T and N staging. In addition, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can contribute to the detection and staging of primary gastric tumors thanks to its excellent soft tissue contrast and multiple imaging sequences without radiation-related risks. In addition, MRI can help with the detection of liver metastases, especially small lesions. Finally, positron emission tomography (PET) is still considered a useful diagnostic tool for the staging of gastric cancer patients, with a focus on nodal metastases and peritoneal carcinomatosis. In addition, it may play a role in the treatment of gastric cancer in the coming years thanks to the introduction of new labeling peptides. This review aims to summarize the most common advantages and pitfalls of EUS, CT, MRI and PET in the TNM staging of gastric cancer patients.
Desert Locust (Schistocerca gregaria) Invasion Risk and Vegetation Damage in a Key Upsurge Area
Authors: Mongare Raphael , Abdel-Rahman Elfatih M. , Mudereri Bester Tawona , Kimathi Emily , Onywere Simon , Tonnang Henri E. Z.
Published: March 2023

In the recent past, the Horn of Africa witnessed an upsurge in the desert locust (Schistocerca gregaria) invasion. This has raised major concerns over the massive food insecurity, socioeconomic impacts, and livelihood losses caused by these recurring invasions. This study determined the potential vegetation damage due to desert locusts (DLs) and predicted the suitable habitat at high risk of invasion by the DLs using current and future climate change scenarios in Kenya. The normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) for the period 2018–2020 was computed using multi-date Sentinel-2 imagery in the Google Earth Engine platform. This was performed to assess the vegetation changes that occurred between May and July of the year 2020 when northern Kenya was the hotspot of the DL upsurge. The maximum entropy (MaxEnt) algorithm was used together with 646 DL occurrence records and six bioclimatic variables to predict DL habitat suitability. The current (2020) and two future climatic scenarios for the shared socioeconomic pathways SSP2-4.5 and SSP5-8.5 from the model for interdisciplinary research on climate (MIROC6) were utilized to predict the future potential distribution of DLs for the year 2030 (average for 2021–2040). Using Turkana County as a case, the NDVI analysis indicated the highest vegetation damage between May and July 2020. The MaxEnt model produced an area under the curve (AUC) value of 0.87 and a true skill statistic (TSS) of 0.61, while temperature seasonality (Bio4), mean diurnal range (Bio2), and precipitation of the warmest quarter (Bio18) were the most important bioclimatic variables in predicting the DL invasion suitability. Further analysis demonstrated that currently 27% of the total area in Turkana County is highly suitable for DL invasion, and the habitat coverage is predicted to potentially decrease to 20% in the future using the worst-case climate change scenario (SSP5-8.5). These results have demonstrated the potential of remotely sensed data to pinpoint the magnitude and location of vegetation damage caused by the DLs and the potential future risk of invasion in the region due to the available favorable vegetational and climatic conditions. This study provides a scalable approach as well as baseline information useful for surveillance, development of control programs, and monitoring of DL invasions at local and regional scales.
Perceptions of Lecturers and Engineering Students of Sophism and Paradox: The Case of Differential Equations
Authors: Rezvanifard Faezeh , Radmehr Farzad , Drake Michael
Published: March 2023

One of the important topics that many STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) students learn at the tertiary level is differential equations (DEs). Previous studies have explored students’ perceptions of engaging in puzzle tasks in STEM courses; however, no study has explored lecturers’ and students’ perceptions toward using sophism and paradox tasks in teaching mathematics courses, including DEs. This study explores DEs lecturers’ and undergraduate engineering students’ perceptions of using sophism and paradox tasks in the teaching and learning of DEs. The perceptions of 17 lecturers and 134 undergraduate engineering students of sophism and paradox tasks were explored using a questionnaire and semi-structured interviews. The findings showed that more than 50% of lecturers and students perceived that sophism and paradox tasks are enjoyable and entertaining activities which improve students’ mathematical understanding and problem-solving skills, and enhance thinking skills. The findings suggest that sophism and paradox tasks can be used along with routine problems in teaching DEs to provide good opportunities for students to participate more effectively in classroom discussions and motivate them to learn DEs.
A Knowledge Concept Recommendation Model Based on Tensor Decomposition and Transformer Reordering
Authors: Shou Zhaoyu , Chen Yishuai , Wen Hui , Liu Jinghua , Mo Jianwen , Zhang Huibing
Published: March 2023

To help students choose the knowledge concepts that meet their needs so that they can learn courses in a more personalized way, thus improving the effectiveness of online learning, this paper proposes a knowledge concept recommendation model based on tensor decomposition and transformer reordering. Firstly, the student tensor, knowledge concept tensor, and interaction tensor are created based on the heterogeneous data of the online learning platform are fused and simplified as an integrated tensor; secondly, we perform multi-dimensional comprehensive analysis on the integrated tensor with tensor-based high-order singular value decomposition to obtain the student personalized feature matrix and the initial recommendation sequence of knowledge concepts, and then obtain the latent embedding matrix of knowledge concepts via Transformer that combine initial recommendation sequence of knowledge concepts and knowledge concept learning sequential information; finally, the final Top-N knowledge concept recommendation list is generated by fusing the latent embedding matrix of knowledge concepts and the students’ personalized feature matrix. Experiments on two real datasets show that the model recommendation performance of this paper is better compared to the baseline model.
Multi-Scale Cost Attention and Adaptive Fusion Stereo Matching Network
Authors: Liu Zhenguo , Li Zhao , Ao Wengang , Zhang Shaoshuang , Liu Wenlong , He Yizhi
Published: March 2023

At present, compared to 3D convolution, 2D convolution is less computationally expensive and faster in stereo matching methods based on convolution. However, compared to the initial cost volume generated by calculation using a 3D convolution method, the initial cost volume generated by 2D convolution in the relevant layer lacks rich information, resulting in the area affected by illumination in the disparity map having a lower robustness and thus affecting its accuracy. Therefore, to address the lack of rich cost volume information in the 2D convolution method, this paper proposes a multi-scale adaptive cost attention and adaptive fusion stereo matching network (MCAFNet) based on AANet+. Firstly, the extracted features are used for initial cost calculation, and the cost volume is input into the multi-scale adaptive cost attention module to generate attention weight, which is then combined with the initial cost volume to suppress irrelevant information and enrich the cost volume. Secondly, the cost aggregation part of the model is improved. A multi-scale adaptive fusion module is added to improve the fusion efficiency of cross-scale cost aggregation. In the Scene Flow dataset, the EPE is reduced to 0.66. The error matching rates in the KITTI2012 and KITTI2015 datasets are 1.60% and 2.22%, respectively.
Dynamic Simulations on Enhanced Heat Recovery Using Heat Exchange PCM Fluid for Solar Collector
Authors: Ren Yawen , Ogura Hironao
Published: March 2023

Facing the goal of carbon neutrality, energy supply chains should be more low-carbon and flexible. A solar chemical heat pump (SCHP) is a potential system for achieving this goal. Our previous studies developed a silicone-oil-based phase-change material (PCM) mixture as a PCM fluid for enhancing heat recovery above 373 K in the solar collector (SC) of the SCHP. The PCM fluid was previously tested to confirm its dispersity and flow properties. The present study proposed a 3D computational fluid dynamics model to simulate the closed circulation loop between the SC and reactor using the PCM fluid. The recovered heat in the SC was studied using several flow rates, as well as the PCM weight fraction of the PCM fluid. Furthermore, the net transportable energy is considered to evaluate the ratio of recovered heat and relative circulation power. As a result, it was verified that the recovered heat of the SC in the experiment and simulation is consistent. The total recovered heat is improved using the PCM fluid. A lower flow rate can enhance the PCM melting mass and the recovered heat although sensible heat amount increases with the flow rate. The best flow rate was 1 L/min when the SC area is 1 m2. Furthermore, the higher PCM content has higher latent heat. On the other hand, the lower content PCM can increase the temperature difference between the SC inlet and outlet because of the lower PCM heat capacity. For the 1 L/min flow rate, 2 wt% PCM fluid has shorter heat-storing time and larger net transportable energy than 0 wt% PCM fluid (426 kJ←403 kJ) for the SCHP unit.
Investigation on Induced Energy Extraction from High-Voltage Transmission Lines Based on Three-Coil WPT Systems
Authors: Li Weilong , Chen Yuhang , Peng Zhou , Wang Xirui , Xia Chenyang
Published: March 2023

In order to realize an online power supply, this article develops an explicit design of induction power extraction technology combined with wireless power transmission (WPT) technology. Unlike the power supply mode of traditional batteries of online monitoring devices of high-voltage transmission lines, this technology solves the short battery life cycle problems. First, the principle of induction power extraction is analyzed. Based on the equivalent circuit of the mutual inductance model, expressions of induction power extraction without and with core saturation are derived, respectively. According to the current transformer (CT) magnetic coupling diagram, the open-circuit voltage of the secondary side of the CT is deduced. Therefore, the CT material and size could be selected. The CT coupling model is used to equivalent the current transformer to the ideal voltage source. Then, the four basic topological spaces of the magnetic coupling resonant WPT system are analyzed and calculated, and the efficiency of the SS topology WPT system is analyzed. Furthermore, aiming at long-distance power transmission, this article described the building of a three-coil WPT system and the analysis of the corresponding transmission efficiency and output power expression. With the aid of Maxwell, the technology proposed is simulated based on a 110 kV high-voltage transmission line with 1.2 m as the transmission distance of the system. Finally, the influence of a coupling coefficient and load resistance on the transmission characteristics of the multicoil system is obtained. Consequently, the simulation results with a system output power of 14.4 W verify the effectiveness of the technology.
Repowering a Coal Power Plant Steam Cycle Using Modular Light-Water Reactor Technology
Authors: Łukowicz Henryk , Bartela Łukasz , Gładysz Paweł , Qvist Staffan
Published: March 2023

This article presents the results of a techno-economic analysis of repowering a coal-fired power plant’s steam turbine system to instead accept heat produced by a pressurized water reactor-type small modular nuclear system (PWR SMR). This type of repowering presents a challenge due to the significantly lower steam pressure and temperature produced by the nuclear system. A 460 MW supercritical power unit with steam parameters of 28 MPa/560 °C/580 °C, operated in the Łagisza Power Plant in Poland, was selected for the analysis. After repowering, the turbine system would be fed with saturated steam from the steam generators of the SMRs at a pressure of 7 MPa and a temperature of 285 °C. In total, four options for repowering were analyzed. In all cases, the existing high-pressure section of the turbine was disconnected, and the existing low-pressure stages of the turbine, as well as all auxiliary and outward components (feedwater heaters, pumps, generator, condenser, condenser cooling, etc.), are re-used in their existing configurations, except for a feedwater-heater pump that needs to be replaced. In three cases, the existing intermediate pressure turbine section acts as the high-pressure stage of the repowered system. These cases include repowering without an additional reheater (case A), with an added single-stage reheater (B) and with an added two-stage reheater (C). In the fourth case (D), the existing intermediate pressure section was replaced by a new high-pressure turbine stage suited to the SMR live steam conditions. While all four repowering options are technically possible and may represent an economic advantage compared to a complete greenfield SMR installation, option D with a new high-pressure stage is clearly the best option available, with significant cost savings, leading to a lower levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) and a higher net present value (NPV) and net present value ratio (NPVR) than the greenfield case and all other repowering. For relatively new coal power plants with equipment in good condition, this type of repowering may present a cost optimal near-term pathway.
Conjugate Heat Transfer Modeling of a Cold Plate Design for Hybrid-Cooled Data Centers
Authors: Dogan Aras , Yilmaz Sibel , Kuzay Mustafa , Korpershoek Dirk-Jan , Burks Jeroen , Demirel Ender
Published: March 2023

Liquid-cooled servers can be deployed to reduce the energy consumption and environmental footprint of hybrid-cooled data centers. A computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model can bring extremely useful insights and results for thermal simulations of air- and liquid-cooled servers in a single environment. In this study, a conjugate heat transfer (CHT) numerical model is developed and validated with experimental data to simulate heat transfer from the CPU to the air and cold plate considering the effect of thermal paste. The cooling performance of an in-house developed cold plate design is thoroughly investigated via the validated CHT model. A dataset containing one hundred samples of various flow, thermal and workload conditions was generated using the Latin hypercube sampling (LHS) method, which was further utilized in the series of CHT simulations. Finally, a novel empirical equation is proposed for the prediction of heat transfer from the CPU to the air. The accuracy of the proposed equation is confirmed by comparing estimated and simulated results for a test dataset. A thermal analysis of a rack containing air and liquid-cooled servers is performed using the presented approach. The simulation results reveal that the proposed compact model can be used reliably for the thermal simulation of a hybrid-cooled data center.
Research on Load State Sensing and Early Warning Method of Distribution Network under High Penetration Distributed Generation Access
Authors: Gu Cailian , Wang Yibo , Wang Weisheng , Gao Yang
Published: March 2023

Aiming at the problems of power flow fluctuation and voltage exceeding standard caused by high permeability distributed power supply access, this paper proposes a load state perception early warning method for distribution networks. Firstly, the random behavior characteristics and voltage early warning mechanisms of power supply and load in distribution networks are analyzed, the dynamic model of distribution networks based on complex network theory is established, and the risk index of voltage exceeding limits under the conditions of high permeability distributed power supply access is put forward. Secondly, the random power flow of distribution networks based on the Monte Carlo method is studied by sampling and analyzing the dynamic model of distribution networks. Then, the risk calculation and safety assessment of voltage exceeding limits are carried out on the currently extracted model, and the risk control strategy of distribution network operation is put forward. Finally, an improved IEEE30-node distribution network topology is proposed. Through simulation analysis, it is proven that the load situation awareness early warning method of distribution networks can effectively predict, improve the security of distribution networks, and provide timely early warning information for maintenance personnel.
Multi-Factor Coupling Analysis and Optimization Method for High-Quality Electrical Machine Systems
Authors: Zhao Wenxiang , Xu Liang , Wang Bo
Published: March 2023

As the global energy crisis and environmental pollution become increasingly prominent, the development of new energy resources has become a global consensus [...]
Application of Active Disturbance Rejection in a Bearingless Machine with Split-Winding
Authors: Teixeira Rodrigo de Andrade , da Silva Werbet Luiz Almeida , Amaral Adson Emanuel Santos , Rodrigues Walter Martins , Salazar Andrés Ortiz , Villarreal Elmer Rolando Llanos
Published: March 2023

In this paper it is proposed the displacement control of a bearingless induction machine (BIM) with split winding and optimized drive structure using Active Disturbance Rejection Control (ADRC). Considering that the BIM is a multivariable, nonlinear, and time-varying system with coupled variables, advanced control techniques can be useful in order to make the system operate efficiently and with good dynamic performance. The ADRC considers the total disturbance, composed of unmodeled dynamics, nonlinearities, uncertainties, and load variations, as an extended state and estimates it in real-time through a state observer. This increases the overall robustness of the control system to disturbances of different natures. The application of the ADRC technique on the radial position control of the BIM used in this work showed that a Linear version of ADRC is not able to compensate for radial load disturbances but this drawback can be solved by the use of a nonlinear observer in the ADRC structure. Besides that, both control versions of the ADRC were able to make stable the naturally unstable radial displacement of the machine’s rotor.
Analysis of the Microbial Diversity and Population Dynamics during the Pulque Fermentation Process
Authors: Astudillo-Melgar Fernando , Hernández-Chávez Georgina , Rodríguez-Alegría María Elena , Bolívar Francisco , Escalante Adelfo
Published: March 2023

Pulque is the most-studied traditional Mexican alcoholic beverage prepared by fermentation of the fresh sap (aguamiel, AM) extracted from different Agave species (maguey) cultivated for pulque production. This beverage has been produced mainly in the Central Mexico Plateau since pre-Columbian times. In this contribution, we report the analysis of the bacterial and fungal diversity through 16S rRNA gene V3–V4 fragment amplicon and ITSR1 sequencing associated with the tissue of the walls (metzal) of the cavity or cajete, where the sap accumulates in producing plants for its daily extraction, in AM, and during four fermentation stages for pulque production. The results led to determining which microorganisms detected in the plant tissue are present in AM and maintained during the fermentation process. The results showed that eight bacterial OTUs (Lactobacillus, Leuconostoc, Weisella, Lactococcus, Acetobacter, Gluconobacter, Zymomonas, and Obesumbacterium) and five fungal OTUs (Kazachstania, Kluyveromyces, Saccharomyces, Hanseniaspora, and the OTU O_Saccharomycetales) were present from metzal to AM and during all the stages of the fermentation analyzed. The detected diversity was considered the microbial core for pulque fermentation, comprising up to ~84% of the total bacterial diversity and up to ~99.6% of the fungal diversity detected in the pulque produced from three plants of A. salmiana from the locality of Huitzilac, Morelos, Mexico. This study provides relevant information on the potential microorganisms responsible for pulque fermentation, demonstrating that the core of microorganisms is preserved throughout the elaboration process and their association with the AM and fermented beverage physiochemical profile.
Analogy between Turbulent-to-Vortex Shedding Flow Transition in Fluids and Ductile-to-Brittle Failure Transition in Solids
Authors: Carpinteri Alberto , Niccolini Gianni , Accornero Federico
Published: March 2023

By using complex potentials, some light is shed on the analogy between the singularity problems arising in fluid and fracture mechanics—in particular, those concerning plane irrotational flows around sharp obstacles and plane elasticity in cracked bodies. Applications to two equivalent geometries are shown: a thin plate transversally immersed in a uniform flow and a crack subjected to uniform out-of-plane shearing stress at infinity (Mode III). The matching between the fluid velocity field and the shearing stress field is consistent with the hydrodynamic analogy. Aside from the Reynolds criterion for the natural laminar-to-turbulent transition, a velocity-intensity factor criterion is defined to predict the forced turbulent-to-vortex-shedding fluid-flow transition (forced transitional flow) generated by a transversal plate obstacle. It is interesting to remark that the velocity-intensity factor presents physical dimensions intermediate between those of a velocity and a kinematic viscosity. In addition, it will be demonstrated that size affects the occurrence of natural-to-forced transitional phenomena in fluids, in a strict analogy to the scale-dependent ductile-to-brittle failure transitions in solids.
Analytical Methods for Allergen Control in Food Processing
Authors: Lee Nanju Alice , Lopata Andreas Ludwig , Colgrave Michelle Lisa
Published: March 2023

Food allergy and food-related anaphylaxis have become a growing public health and food safety issue worldwide [...]
Nutritional Evaluation of Quinoa Genetic Resources Growing in the Climatic Conditions of Central Europe
Authors: Dostalíková Lucie , Hlásná Čepková Petra , Janovská Dagmar , Svoboda Pavel , Jágr Michal , Dvořáček Václav , Viehmannová Iva
Published: March 2023

Quinoa displays huge genetic variability and adaptability to distinct climatic conditions. Quinoa seeds are a good source of nutrients; however, the overall nutritional composition and nutrient content is influenced by numerous factors. This study focused on the nutritional and morphologic evaluation of various quinoa genotypes grown in the Czech Republic. Significant differences between years were observed for morphological traits (plant height, inflorescence length, weight of thousand seeds). The weather conditions in the year 2018 were favorable for all the morphological traits. The protein content of quinoa accessions ranged between 13.44 and 20.01% and it was positively correlated to mauritianin. Total phenolic content varied greatly from year to year, while the antioxidant activity remained relatively stable. The most abundant phenolic compounds were the flavonoids miquelianin, rutin, and isoquercetin. Isoquercetin, quercetin, and N-feruoloyl octopamine showed the highest stability under variable weather conditions in the analyzed years. A total of six compounds were detected and quantified in quinoa for the first time. Most varieties performed well under Central European conditions and can be considered a good source of nutrients and bioactive compounds. These data can be used as a source of information for plant breeders aiming to improve the quality traits of quinoa.
Hot Air Impingement Drying Enhanced Drying Characteristics and Quality Attributes of Ophiopogonis Radix
Authors: Zheng Zhian , Wang Shanyu , Zhang Chujie , Wu Min , Cui Dezhou , Fu Xiaosong , Gao Lei , Li Aichao , Wei Qing , Liu Ziliang
Published: March 2023

The effects of drying temperature and air velocity on the drying characteristics, color, bioactive compounds, rehydration ratio, and microstructure of Ophiopogonis Radix during hot air impingement drying (HAID) were explored in the current study. The experimental results showed that the drying temperature and air velocity had a significant impact on the drying characteristics and quality attributes of dried products except for the rehydration ratio. The drying time decreased from 720 to 240 min with the increase of drying temperature from 50 to 70 °C. Increasing the air velocity from 6 to 12 m/s enhanced the drying process of Ophiopogonis Radix, while the extension of air velocity to 15 m/s lowered the drying rate. The samples that were dried at a lower drying temperature obtained lower color difference. Properly increasing the drying temperature or air velocity could increase the total polysaccharide and flavonoid contents of dried products. Additionally, a back-propagation neural network (BPNN) model was developed to predict the moisture ratio of Ophiopogonis Radix during the drying process. The optimal BPNN with 3-11-1 topology were obtained to predict the moisture ratio of Ophiopogonis Radix during HAID and performed with an acceptable performance.
Estimate of Secondary Porosity from Surface Crossed Square Array Resistivity Measurements
Authors: Matias Manuel Joao
Published: March 2023

The secondary porosity of rocks and formations plays an important role in water exploration and exploitation in crystalline rocks. Furthermore, cracks and voids are paths for contaminated fluid propagation and, thus, their location can be very important in environmental studies. Usually, secondary porosity is estimated from well logging observations, but some previous works have pointed out that azimuthal resistivity measurements and the square array can be used to estimate this parameter. Herein, the use of the square array and of the crossed square array will be investigated to estimate the secondary porosity. Thus, the analogue model and field resistivity data obtained with those arrays are discussed and interpreted. The analogue model simulates contacts between the isotropic and anisotropic media and between two different anisotropic media. The field data are from an area where steeply dipping formations prevail and contacts between the isotropic and anisotropic media are present. The calculated secondary porosity values are compared with the lateral changes in the resistivity and anisotropy, and pseudo sections are shown to aid the interpretation. In addition, 2D resistivity models for the field survey are produced to provide a better image and interpretation of the data. The overall results and limitations are discussed, and data acquisition procedures are proposed to optimize the field work.
Knowledge and Perceptions of Healthcare Workers about the Implementation of the Universal Test and Treat Guideline in Under-Resourced, High-HIV Prevalence Rural Settings
Authors: Maluleka Lerato Martina , Hlongwane Naomi , Mokgatle Mathildah Mpata
Published: March 2023

Background: South Africa (SA) began implementing its Universal Test and Treat (UTT) policy in September 2016 and Same Day Initiation (SDI) in 2017, aiming to meet the UNAIDS 90-90-90 targets by 2020. With significant advances in HIV testing, large gaps remain in the linkage and retention in care. As part of a contribution to the successful implementation of UTT, this study aims to examine progress in the implementation of the UTT and to identify gaps and facilitators in the successful implementation of the guidelines from the perspective of healthcare providers from under-resourced, high-HIV prevalence rural settings. Methods: We conducted a census of all 170 professional nurses from 18 primary healthcare (PHC) clinics in Rustenburg, South Africa, between October 2018 and February 2019. The perceptions, knowledge and attitudes of nursing staff associated with UTT implementation were investigated though the dissemination of self-administered questionnaires. Stata 16.0 was used to analyse the data. Frequency and contingency tables were used to present categorical data. The precision of the estimates was measured using a 95% confidence interval (95% CI), and the p-value of statistical significance is p < 0.05. Results: The facilities were found to have adequate governance and supervision, but gaps were identified, including staffing challenges, bottlenecks and under-resourced service delivery platforms. It was found that a high level of knowledge is a predictor of positive perception of the UTT programme and its implementation. Being supported by capacity development and having positive perceptions of UTT were important motivators for UTT implementation. Conclusions: This study was able to identify potential facilitators of the UTT strategy implementation at the selected facilities. Clinical guidelines and policies on UTT contributed to successful implementation, which means that the process of closing the gaps identified should prioritise the delivery, support and prioritisation of capacity development, infrastructure and the provision of clinical guidelines to all healthcare workers. It is recommended that nurses receive training on UTT and its benefits to increase their knowledge and promote its successful implementation in clinics.
Exploring Determinants of COVID-19 Vaccine Acceptance, Uptake, and Hesitancy in the Pediatric Population: A Study of Parents and Caregivers in Saudi Arabia during the Initial Vaccination Phase
Authors: Alhuzaimi Abdullah N. , Alrasheed Abdullah A. , Al-Eyadhy Ayman , Aljamaan Fadi , Alhasan Khalid , Batais Mohammed A. , Jamal Amr , Alshahrani Fatimah S. , Alenezi Shuliweeh , Alhaboob Ali , AlZamil Fahad , Bashumeel Yaser Y. , Banaeem Ahmad M. , Aldawood Abdulrahman , Halwani Rabih , Barry Mazin , Al-Tawfiq Jaffar A. , Temsah Mohamad-Hani
Published: March 2023

Objectives: This study aims to assess COVID-19 vaccine acceptance, uptake, and hesitancy among parents and caregivers of children in Saudi Arabia during the initial rollout of pediatric COVID-19 vaccination. Methods: An electronic survey was used to collect data from participants who visited a COVID-19 vaccine center. The survey included demographic data, COVID-19 vaccine status among participants and their children, and reasons for vaccine acceptance or rejection. The Vaccine Hesitancy Scale (VHS) tool was also employed to assess vaccine hesitancy and attitudes toward the COVID-19 vaccine and routine childhood vaccination. Multivariate binary regression analysis was used to identify predictors of actual COVID-19 vaccine uptake among children. Results: Of the 873 respondents included in the analysis, 61.5% were parents and 38.5% were other caregivers. Of the participants, 96.9% had received the COVID-19 vaccine. Six hundred and ninety-four participants accepted the vaccine for their children, with the main reasons being an endorsement by the Saudi Ministry of Health (60%) and the importance of going back to school (55%). One hundred and seventy-nine participants would not vaccinate their children, with the most common reasons being fear of adverse effects (49%) and inadequate data about vaccine safety (48%). Factors such as age, COVID-19 vaccination status, self-rated family commitment level, attitudes toward routine children’s vaccines, and participants’ generalized anxiety disorder (GAD7) score did not significantly correlate with children’s COVID-19 vaccination status. Parents were less likely to vaccinate their children compared to other caregivers, and participants with a higher socioeconomic status were more likely to vaccinate their children. Conclusion: Vaccine acceptance and uptake were high during the initial pediatric COVID-19 vaccination rollout in Saudi Arabia. Still, the ongoing endorsement of the Ministry of Health and healthcare authorities should continue to advocate for better vaccine uptake in children.
Analysis of Aroma Volatiles from Michelia crassipes Flower and Its Changes in Different Flower Organs during Flowering
Authors: Yong Yubing , Yuan Jieli , Jin Xiaoling , Huang Yu , Zhang Zhe , Chen Yan , Zhang Minhuan
Published: March 2023

Michelia crassipes is a great ornamental plant, the flowers of which have high economic value. In this study, we employed headspace solid-phase microextraction (HS–SPME) combined with gas chromatography high-resolution mass spectrometry (GC–HRMS) for the first time to identify the volatile compounds emitted from different organs of M. crassipes flowers at different flowering stages. M. crassipes flower odor comprises 69 volatile compounds that are dominated by terpenes constituting 84% of collected volatiles. It was found that α-guaiene, β-caryophyllene and germacrene B had the highest relative amounts, while ethyl 3-methyl valerate, methyl benzoate and β-damascone had the highest odor activity values (OAVs). This contributed to the complex fruity, woody and floral aromas of M. crassipes. Total odor emission increased along the flower blooming, which was most abundant in the pistil followed by tepals and stamens. Paraffin sections of M. crassipes flower organs showed the highest density of oil secretory cells in the pistil at the full flowering stage, which was positively correlated with total odor release. The scent of the pistil and tepals was characterized by terpenes, whereas stamens was characterized by benzenoids. We suggest that the benzenoids in stamens might contribute to pollinator attraction in M. crassipes.
Adaptogens on Depression-Related Outcomes: A Systematic Integrative Review and Rationale of Synergism with Physical Activity
Authors: Sánchez Isabel A. , Cuchimba Jaime A. , Pineda María C. , Argüello Yenny P. , Kočí Jana , Kreider Richard B. , Petro Jorge L. , Bonilla Diego A.
Published: March 2023

Depression is considered the most important disorder affecting mental health. The aim of this systematic integrative review was: (i) to describe the effects of supplementation with adaptogens on variables related to depression in adults; and (ii) to discuss the potential combination with physical exercise to aid planning and commissioning future clinical research. An integrative review was developed complementing the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses statement (PROSPERO registration: CRD42021249682). A total of 41 articles met the inclusion criteria. With a Price index of 46.4%, we found that: (i) Hypericum perforatum (St. John’s Wort) is the most studied and supported adaptogen (17/41 [41.46%], three systematic reviews with meta-analysis) followed by Crocus sativus L. or saffron (6/41 [14.63%], three systematic reviews with meta-analysis and two systematic reviews); (ii) it is possible that the significantly better performance of adaptogens over placebo is due to the reduction of allostatic load via the action of secondary metabolites on BDNF regulation; and, (iii) the number of studies reporting physical activity levels is limited or null for those that combine an exercise program with the consumption of adaptogens. Aware of the need for a multidisciplinary approach for depression treatment, this systematic integrative review provides an up-to-date view for supporting the use of St. John’s Wort and saffron as non-pharmacological strategies while also help commissioning future research on the efficacy of other adaptogens. It also contributes to the design of future clinical research studies that evaluate the consumption of herbal extracts plus physical exercise, mainly resistance training, as a potentially safe and powerful strategy to treat depression.
Analysing the Impact on Health and Environment from Biogas Production Process and Biomass Combustion: A Scoping Review
Authors: Tamburini Marco , Pernetti Roberta , Anelli Manuela , Oddone Enrico , Morandi Anna , Osuchowski Adam , Villani Simona , Montomoli Cristina , Monti Maria Cristina
Published: March 2023

The increasing demand for renewable energy production entails the development of novel green technologies, among them the use of biomass for energy generation. Industrial processes raise new issues regarding emerging risks for the health of people working in biogas plants and of nearby communities. The potential epidemiological and environmental impacts on human health related to biogas plants were assessed by means of a review of the available literature. Nineteen papers published between 2000 and 2022 were identified through electronic database search using search strings. The selected works are epidemiological studies and environmental monitoring studies, which aimed at investigating what are the health risk factors for biogas plant workers and for people living in the surrounding communities. The results of the epidemiological studies revealed a potential exposure to endotoxins and fungi that are associated with respiratory symptoms. Furthermore, the results from the environmental monitoring studies showed significant concentrations of particulate matter, microbial agents, endotoxins, and VOCs in occupational settings. In conclusion, the results of this literature review suggest that further analyses through an integrated approach combining environmental and health data are necessary for a comprehensive understanding of the potential risks associated with the uptake of biogas technology.
Transcriptome Analysis Reveals the Profile of Long Non-Coding RNAs during Myogenic Differentiation in Goats
Authors: Yang Chenyu , Zhou Xinyi , Xue Yanan , Li Dandan , Wang Linjie , Zhong Tao , Dai Dinghui , Cao Jiaxue , Guo Jiazhong , Li Li , Zhang Hongping , Zhan Siyuan
Published: March 2023

The long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are emerging as essential regulators of the growth and development of skeletal muscles. However, little is known about the expression profiles of lncRNAs during the proliferation and differentiation of skeletal muscle satellite cells (MuSCs) in goats. In this study, we investigate potential regulatory lncRNAs that govern muscle development by performing lncRNA expression profiling analysis during the proliferation (cultured in the growth medium, GM) and differentiation (cultured in the differentiation medium, DM1/DM5) of MuSCs. In total, 1001 lncRNAs were identified in MuSC samples, and 314 differentially expressed (DE) (FDR < 0.05, |log2FC| > 1) lncRNAs were screened by pairwise comparisons from three comparison groups (GM-vs-DM1, GM-vs-DM5, DM1-vs-DM5). Moreover, we identified the cis-, trans-, and antisense-regulatory target genes of DE lncRNAs. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses showed that these target genes were significantly enriched in muscle development-related GO terms and KEGG pathways. In addition, the network of interactions between DE lncRNAs and their target genes was identified, which included well-known myogenesis regulators such as Myogenic differentiation 1 (MyoD), Myogenin (MyoG), and Myosin heavy chain (MyHC). Meanwhile, competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network analysis showed that 237 DE lncRNAs could bind to 329 microRNAs (miRNAs), while miRNAs could target 564 mRNAs. Together, our results provide a genome-wide resource of lncRNAs that may contribute to myogenic differentiation in goats and lay the groundwork for future investigation into their functions during skeletal muscle development.
Non-Ceruloplasmin Copper Identifies a Subtype of Alzheimer’s Disease (CuAD): Characterization of the Cognitive Profile and Case of a CuAD Patient Carrying an RGS7 Stop-Loss Variant
Authors: Squitti Rosanna , Catalli Claudio , Gigante Laura , Marianetti Massimo , Rosari Mattia , Mariani Stefania , Bucossi Serena , Mastromoro Gioia , Ventriglia Mariacarla , Simonelli Ilaria , Tondolo Vincenzo , Singh Parminder , Kumar Ashok , Pal Amit , Rongioletti Mauro
Published: March 2023

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a type of dementia whose cause is incompletely defined. Copper (Cu) involvement in AD etiology was confirmed by a meta-analysis on about 6000 participants, showing that Cu levels were decreased in AD brain specimens, while Cu and non-bound ceruloplasmin Cu (non-Cp Cu) levels were increased in serum/plasma samples. Non-Cp Cu was advocated as a stratification add-on biomarker of a Cu subtype of AD (CuAD subtype). To further circumstantiate this concept, we evaluated non-Cp Cu reliability in classifying subtypes of AD based on the characterization of the cognitive profile. The stratification of the AD patients into normal AD (non-Cp Cu ≤ 1.6 µmol/L) and CuAD (non-Cp Cu > 1.6 µmol/L) showed a significant difference in executive function outcomes, even though patients did not differ in disease duration and severity. Among the Cu-AD patients, a 76-year-old woman showed significantly abnormal levels in the Cu panel and underwent whole exome sequencing. The CuAD patient was detected with possessing the homozygous (c.1486T > C; p.(Ter496Argext*19) stop-loss variant in the RGS7 gene (MIM*602517), which encodes for Regulator of G Protein Signaling 7. Non-Cp Cu as an add-on test in the AD diagnostic pathway can provide relevant information about the underlying pathological processes in subtypes of AD and suggest specific therapeutic options.