bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of Intron Retention in the Slc16a3 Gene Transcript Encoding the Transporter MCT4 in the Brain of Aged and Alzheimer-Disease Model (APPswePS1dE9) Mice
Authors: EL-Seedy Ayman , Pellerin Luc , Page Guylène , Ladeveze Veronique
Published: October 2023

The monocarboxylate transporter 4 (MCT4; Slc16a3) is expressed in the central nervous system, notably by astrocytes. It is implicated in lactate release and the regulation of glycolytic flux. Whether its expression varies during normal and/or pathological aging is unclear. As the presence of its mature transcript in the brain of young and old mice was determined, an unexpectedly longer RT-PCR fragment was detected in the mouse frontal cortex and hippocampus at 12 vs. 3 months of age. Cultured astrocytes expressed the expected 516 base pair (bp) fragment but treatment with IL-1β to mimic inflammation as can occur during aging led to the additional expression of a 928 bp fragment like that seen in aged mice. In contrast, cultured pericytes (a component of the blood–brain barrier) only exhibited the 516 bp fragment. Intriguingly, cultured endothelial cells constitutively expressed both fragments. When RT-PCR was performed on brain subregions of an Alzheimer mouse model (APPswePS1dE9), no fragment was detected at 3 months, while only the 928 bp fragment was present at 12 months. Sequencing of MCT4 RT-PCR products revealed the presence of a remaining intron between exon 2 and 3, giving rise to the longer fragment detected by RT-PCR. These results unravel the existence of intron retention for the MCT4 gene in the central nervous system. Such alternative splicing appears to increase with age in the brain and might be prominent in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease. Hence, further studies in vitro and in vivo of intron 2 retention in the Slc16a3 gene transcript are required for adequate characterization concerning the biological roles of Slc16a3 isoforms in the context of aging and Alzheimer’s disease pathology.
The Utilization of Glucagon-like Peptide 1 Agonists and Risk of Following External Eye Diseases in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Individuals: A Population-Based Study
Authors: Fan Ying-Chi , Peng Shu-Yen , Chang Chao-Kai , Lee Chia-Yi , Huang Jing-Yang , Hsieh Ming-Ju , Yang Shun-Fa
Published: October 2023

The glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) agonist showed anti-hyperglycemic and anti-inflammatory effects, which may retard the risk of external eye disease. The protective effect of GLP-1 agonist and dry eye disease (DED) was found, while the relationship between GLP-1 agonist and other corneal diseases was not clear. Herein, we aim to evaluate the association between the usage of GLP-1 agonists and the development of the following external eye disease in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients. A retrospective cohort study using the National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD) of Taiwan was conducted. The T2DM patients were divided into those with GLP-1 treatment and those without GLP-1 treatment and matched with a 1:2 ratio. The main outcomes were the development of dry eye disease (DED), superficial keratitis, and infectious keratitis. The Cox proportional hazard regression was adopted to produce the adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) of external eye diseases between groups. There were 115, 54, and 11 episodes of DED, superficial keratitis, and infectious keratitis in the GLP-1 group. Another 280, 168, and 31 events of DED, superficial keratitis, and infectious keratitis were recorded in the control group. The GLP-1 group demonstrated a significantly lower incidence of DED (aHR: 0.853, 95% CI: 0.668–0.989, p = 0.0356) and superficial keratitis (aHR: 0.670, 95% CI: 0.475–0.945, p = 0.0107) compared to the control group. In the subgroup analyses, the correlation of GLP-1 agonist and DED development was more prominent in patients younger than 60 years old (p = 0.0018). In conclusion, the GLP-1 agonist treatments are significantly associated with a lower incidence of subsequent DED and superficial keratitis, while the relationship was not significant between GLP-1 agonist usage and infectious keratitis.
Predictors of Variation in the Cognitive Function Trajectories among Older Adults Living Alone: A Growth Mixture Modeling Approach
Authors: Park Soyoung , Lee Seoyoon , Jeong Kyu-Hyoung
Published: October 2023

Background: Considering the global aging population, this study investigates changes in cognitive function and predictive factors among older adults living alone. Methods: Using data collected from the Korean Longitudinal Study of Aging (KLoSA), the study examines 1217 participants to identify distinct cognitive change patterns and the variables affecting them. Results: Two primary cognitive function change types emerged: “High-Level Declining Type” and “Low-Level Stable Type.” Although the former initially displayed normal cognitive function, it gradually declined over a period of 14 years until it reached mild cognitive impairment (MCI) levels by the year 2020. While the latter group had lower cognitive function from the beginning and remained stable throughout the study. Older age, female gender, rural residence, lower education, lower income, unemployment, and higher levels of depression were linked to a higher likelihood of belonging to the “Low-Level Stable Type”. Conclusions: The findings of these studies emphasize the need for proactive interventions and regular cognitive assessments for older individuals living alone, as cognitive impairment can develop even in individuals whose cognitive abilities are initially good. Also, tailored interventions should target specific demographic and socioeconomic groups to mitigate cognitive decline effectively.
Helping Frontline Workers in Texas—A Framework for Resource Development
Authors: Lalani Karima , O’Neal Meredith , Joannou Simone Lee , Gopal Bhanumathi , Champagne-Langabeer Tiffany
Published: October 2023

First responders disproportionately experience occupational stress when compared to the general population, and COVID-19 has exacerbated this stress. The nature of their duties as law enforcement officers, firefighters, and medics exposes them to repeated trauma, increasing their risk of developing a broad array of mental health issues, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance use disorder (SUD), and compassion fatigue. This paper describes the need for resources for frontline workers and provides a framework for creating and implementing resources. A team of interdisciplinary subject matter experts developed two major resources. The first resource was a 24/7 helpline to support first responders and healthcare workers experiencing substance use or mental health concerns. The second resource was the First Responders Educational Campaign, which developed and delivered focused training modules on useful topics covering substance use and mental health concerns as they pertain to this workforce. Utilizing core interprofessional principles, content was sourced from multiple disciplines and contrasting perspectives to provide a comprehensive understanding of mental health and substance use issues. The curriculum was designed so that the content was interdisciplinary, interprofessional, and accessible to audiences across disciplines and professions. After engaging more than 1500 individuals, resources developed here have augmented mental health and substance use support resources available to the target population.
The Study of Regional Innovation Network Structure: Evidence from the Yangtze River Delta Urban Agglomeration
Authors: Chen Jie , Jiang Liang , Tian Ye , Luo Jing
Published: October 2023

As a driving force for regional development, innovation holds an increasing position in regional competitiveness, and a reasonable and coordinated innovation network structure can promote high-quality regional development. Utilizing the modified gravity model and social network analysis method, an innovation network composed of 27 cities in the Yangtze River Delta urban agglomeration from 2010 to 2021 was studied. The following conclusions were founded: (1) The innovation development level in the Yangtze River Delta urban agglomeration was constantly improving, and the innovation development level generally showed a spatial pattern of high in the southeast and low in the northwest. (2) The intensity and density of innovation network correlations in urban agglomerations were increasing, and the centrality of network nodes had an obvious hierarchical characteristic. The innovation network had a significant core–periphery spatial structure, with core cities that had higher centrality, such as Shanghai, Nanjing, and Hangzhou, playing the role of “intermediaries” and “bridges”, while cities with lower centrality, such as Anhui and cities in northern Jiangsu, generally played the role of “periphery actors” in the network. (3) The spatial correlation network of innovation of the Yangtze River Delta urban agglomeration could be divided into four blocks, namely, main benefit, broker, two-way spillover, and net spillover, and the spillover effect among them had obvious gradient characteristics of hierarchy.
Effect of Chitosan on the Number of Streptococcus mutans in Saliva: A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review
Authors: Róna Virág , Bencze Bulcsú , Kelemen Kata , Végh Dániel , Tóth Réka , Kói Tamás , Hegyi Péter , Varga Gábor , Rózsa Noémi Katinka , Géczi Zoltán
Published: October 2023

We conducted a meta-analysis and systematic review to investigate the efficacy of chitosan-containing chewing gums, and to test their inhibitory effects on Streptococcus mutans. The systematic search was performed in three databases (Cochrane Library, EMBASE, and PubMed) and included English-language randomized–controlled trials to compare the efficacy of chitosan in reducing the number of S. mutans. To assess the certainty of evidence, the GRADE tool was used. Mean differences were calculated with a 95% confidence interval for one outcome: bacterial counts in CFU/mL. The protocol of the study was registered on PROSPERO, registration number CRD42022365006. Articles were downloaded (n = 6758) from EMBASE (n = 2255), PubMed (n = 1516), and Cochrane (n = 2987). After the selection process, a total of four articles were included in the qualitative synthesis and three in the quantitative synthesis. Our results show that chitosan reduced the number of bacteria. The difference in mean quantity was −4.68 × 105. The interval of the random-effects model was [−2.15 × 106; 1.21 × 106] and the prediction interval was [1.03 × 107; 9.40 × 106]. The I2 value was 98% (p = 0.35), which indicates a high degree of heterogeneity. Chitosan has some antibacterial effects when used as a component of chewing gum, but further studies are needed. It can be a promising antimicrobial agent for prevention.
Zinc Uptake by HIV-1 Viral Particles: An Isotopic Study
Authors: Guillin Olivia , Albalat Emmanuelle , Vindry Caroline , Errazuriz-Cerda Elisabeth , Ohlmann Théophile , Balter Vincent , Chavatte Laurent
Published: October 2023

Zinc, an essential trace element that serves as a cofactor for numerous cellular and viral proteins, plays a central role in the dynamics of HIV-1 infection. Among the viral proteins, the nucleocapsid NCp7, which contains two zinc finger motifs, is abundantly present viral particles and plays a crucial role in coating HIV-1 genomic RNA, thus concentrating zinc within virions. In this study, we investigated whether HIV-1 virus production impacts cellular zinc homeostasis and whether isotopic fractionation occurs between the growth medium, the producing cells, and the viral particles. We found that HIV-1 captures a significant proportion of cellular zinc in the neo-produced particles. Furthermore, as cells grow, they accumulate lighter zinc isotopes from the medium, resulting in a concentration of heavier isotopes in the media, and the viruses exhibit a similar isotopic fractionation to the producing cells. Moreover, we generated HIV-1 particles in HEK293T cells enriched with each of the five zinc isotopes to assess the potential effects on the structure and infectivity of the viruses. As no strong difference was observed between the HIV-1 particles produced in the various conditions, we have demonstrated that enriched isotopes can be accurately used in future studies to trace the fate of zinc in cells infected by HIV-1 particles. Comprehending the mechanisms underlying zinc absorption by HIV-1 viral particles offers the potential to provide insights for developing future treatments aimed at addressing this specific facet of the virus’s life cycle.
Verbascoside Elicits Its Beneficial Effects by Enhancing Mitochondrial Spare Respiratory Capacity and the Nrf2/HO-1 Mediated Antioxidant System in a Murine Skeletal Muscle Cell Line
Authors: Sciandra Francesca , Bottoni Patrizia , De Leo Marinella , Braca Alessandra , Brancaccio Andrea , Bozzi Manuela
Published: October 2023

Muscle weakness and muscle loss characterize many physio-pathological conditions, including sarcopenia and many forms of muscular dystrophy, which are often also associated with mitochondrial dysfunction. Verbascoside, a phenylethanoid glycoside of plant origin, also named acteoside, has shown strong antioxidant and anti-fatigue activity in different animal models, but the molecular mechanisms underlying these effects are not completely understood. This study aimed to investigate the influence of verbascoside on mitochondrial function and its protective role against H2O2-induced oxidative damage in murine C2C12 myoblasts and myotubes pre-treated with verbascoside for 24 h and exposed to H2O2. We examined the effects of verbascoside on cell viability, intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and mitochondrial function through high-resolution respirometry. Moreover, we verified whether verbascoside was able to stimulate nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor (Nrf2) activity through Western blotting and confocal fluorescence microscopy, and to modulate the transcription of its target genes, such as heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha (PGC-1α), by Real Time PCR. We found that verbascoside (1) improved mitochondrial function by increasing mitochondrial spare respiratory capacity; (2) mitigated the decrease in cell viability induced by H2O2 and reduced ROS levels; (3) promoted the phosphorylation of Nrf2 and its nuclear translocation; (4) increased the transcription levels of HO-1 and, in myoblasts but not in myotubes, those of PGC-1α. These findings contribute to explaining verbascoside’s ability to relieve muscular fatigue and could have positive repercussions for the development of therapies aimed at counteracting muscle weakness and mitochondrial dysfunction.
Experimental Study on the Physical and Mechanical Characteristics of Refractory Concrete Using Heat-Treated Steel Slag Coarse Aggregates
Authors: Alkhedr Munaf , Asaad Majed , Ismail Mahmoud , Wardeh George
Published: October 2023

The aim of this study is to compare the properties of refractory concrete made with thermally treated and untreated steel slag. Five concrete compositions were prepared and investigated in the present work. The first mixture, referred to as the reference, was formulated using dolomite aggregates, whereas the second and third mixtures were developed by replacing natural coarse aggregate with 50 and 100% by weight of thermally untreated steel slag, respectively. The same replacement ratio (50% and 100%) of thermally treated steel slag was used to produce the fourth and fifth mixtures. Specimens of each specimen were placed in a furnace and heated to 400 °C and 800 °C. The mass loss for all the specimens heated to 400 °C was about 8%, while the reference suffered the maximum mass loss at 800 °C, which was 21.6%. The mixture with a 100% substitution of thermally treated steel slag produced the maximum compressive strength when compared to other mixtures at a temperature of 800 °C. The compressive strength of the M5 mixture was 18 MPa versus 10.87 MPa for the reference mixture. Additionally, optical microscope examination of specimens containing thermally treated steel slag revealed less damage than that observed in mixtures with dolomite.
True Parthenogenesis and Female-Biased Sex Ratios in Cicadomorpha and Fulgoromorpha (Hemiptera, Auchenorrhyncha)
Authors: Aguín-Pombo Dora , Kuznetsova Valentina G.
Published: October 2023

Insects are renowned for their remarkable diversity of reproductive modes. Among these, the largest non-holometabolous order, Hemiptera, stands out with one of the most diversified arrays of parthenogenesis modes observed among insects. Although there are extensive reviews on reproduction without fertilization in some hemipteran higher taxa, no such analysis has been conducted for the large suborders Fulgoromorpha (planthoppers) and Cicadomorpha (leafhoppers). In both groups, there are species that reproduce by true parthenogenesis, specifically thelytoky, and in Fulgoromorpha, there are species that reproduce by pseudogamy or, more specifically, sperm-dependent parthenogenesis. In this review paper, we give and discuss the only currently known examples of true parthenogenesis in Fulgoromorpha and Cicadomorpha, mainly from the planthopper family Delphacidae and the leafhopper family Cicadellidae. We analyze patterns of distribution, ecology, mating behavior, acoustic communication, and cytogenetic and genetic diversity of parthenoforms and discuss hypotheses about the origin of parthenogenesis in each case. We also highlight examples in which natural populations show a shift in sex ratio toward females and discuss possible causes of this phenomenon, primarily the influence of endosymbiotic bacteria capable of altering the reproductive strategies of the hosts. Our review is mainly based on studies in which the authors have participated.
Predictive Factors of Early Response to Dupilumab in Patients with Moderate-to-Severe Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Ferrucci Silvia , Casazza Giovanni , Zussino Martina , Tavecchio Simona , Marzano Angelo V. , Tedeschi Micol
Published: October 2023

Efforts have been made to identify factors influencing clinical response in patients with atopic dermatitis (AD) treated with dupilumab. A retrospective single-center observational study was carried out by analyzing data from 492 patients aged 12 years and older with moderate-to-severe AD. The study aimed to identify baseline demographic and clinical factors that could predict the achievement of a mild level of disease, i.e., an Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI) ≤ 7, within 4 weeks from dupilumab initiation. Classic, generalized lichenoid and inflammatory phenotypes compared with a nummular eczema phenotype (OR = 6.9, 95% CI 2.04–23.48 and OR = 4.22, 95% CI 1.22–14.66, respectively) and a baseline EASI ≤ 24 and between 24–29, compared with a baseline EASI ≥ 29 (OR = 3.1, 95% CI 1.81–5.41 and OR = 1.8, 95% CI 1.05–3.07, respectively), were found to be predictive factors of early response to dupilumab, highlighting the importance of early biological treatment of AD.
Accuracy of Artificial Intelligence-Based Technologies for the Diagnosis of Atrial Fibrillation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Manetas-Stavrakakis Nikolaos , Sotiropoulou Ioanna Myrto , Paraskevas Themistoklis , Maneta Stavrakaki Stefania , Bampatsias Dimitrios , Xanthopoulos Andrew , Papageorgiou Nikolaos , Briasoulis Alexandros
Published: October 2023

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common arrhythmia with a high burden of morbidity including impaired quality of life and increased risk of thromboembolism. Early detection and management of AF could prevent thromboembolic events. Artificial intelligence (AI)--based methods in healthcare are developing quickly and can be proved as valuable for the detection of atrial fibrillation. In this metanalysis, we aim to review the diagnostic accuracy of AI-based methods for the diagnosis of atrial fibrillation. A predetermined search strategy was applied on four databases, the PubMed on 31 August 2022, the Google Scholar and Cochrane Library on 3 September 2022, and the Embase on 15 October 2022. The identified studies were screened by two independent investigators. Studies assessing the diagnostic accuracy of AI-based devices for the detection of AF in adults against a gold standard were selected. Qualitative and quantitative synthesis to calculate the pooled sensitivity and specificity was performed, and the QUADAS-2 tool was used for the risk of bias and applicability assessment. We screened 14,770 studies, from which 31 were eligible and included. All were diagnostic accuracy studies with case–control or cohort design. The main technologies used were: (a) photoplethysmography (PPG) with pooled sensitivity 95.1% and specificity 96.2%, and (b) single-lead ECG with pooled sensitivity 92.3% and specificity 96.2%. In the PPG group, 0% to 43.2% of the tracings could not be classified using the AI algorithm as AF or not, and in the single-lead ECG group, this figure fluctuated between 0% and 38%. Our analysis showed that AI-based methods for the diagnosis of atrial fibrillation have high sensitivity and specificity for the detection of AF. Further studies should examine whether utilization of these methods could improve clinical outcomes.
Selective Laser Melting and Spark Plasma Sintering: A Perspective on Functional Biomaterials
Authors: Rahmani Ramin , Lopes Sérgio Ivan , Prashanth Konda Gokuldoss
Published: October 2023

Achieving lightweight, high-strength, and biocompatible composites is a crucial objective in the field of tissue engineering. Intricate porous metallic structures, such as lattices, scaffolds, or triply periodic minimal surfaces (TPMSs), created via the selective laser melting (SLM) technique, are utilized as load-bearing matrices for filled ceramics. The primary metal alloys in this category are titanium-based Ti6Al4V and iron-based 316L, which can have either a uniform cell or a gradient structure. Well-known ceramics used in biomaterial applications include titanium dioxide (TiO2), zirconium dioxide (ZrO2), aluminum oxide (Al2O3), hydroxyapatite (HA), wollastonite (W), and tricalcium phosphate (TCP). To fill the structures fabricated by SLM, an appropriate ceramic is employed through the spark plasma sintering (SPS) method, making them suitable for in vitro or in vivo applications following minor post-processing. The combined SLM-SPS approach offers advantages, such as rapid design and prototyping, as well as assured densification and consolidation, although challenges persist in terms of large-scale structure and molding design. The individual or combined application of SLM and SPS processes can be implemented based on the specific requirements for fabricated sample size, shape complexity, densification, and mass productivity. This flexibility is a notable advantage offered by the combined processes of SLM and SPS. The present article provides an overview of metal–ceramic composites produced through SLM-SPS techniques. Mg-W-HA demonstrates promise for load-bearing biomedical applications, while Cu-TiO2-Ag exhibits potential for virucidal activities. Moreover, a functionally graded lattice (FGL) structure, either in radial or longitudinal directions, offers enhanced advantages by allowing adjustability and control over porosity, roughness, strength, and material proportions within the composite.
A Low-Power Analog Cell for Implementing Spiking Neural Networks in 65 nm CMOS
Authors: Venker John S. , Vincent Luke , Dix Jeff
Published: October 2023

A Spiking Neural Network (SNN) is realized within a 65 nm CMOS process to demonstrate the feasibility of its constituent cells. Analog hardware neural networks have shown improved energy efficiency in edge computing for real-time-inference applications, such as speech recognition. The proposed network uses a leaky integrate and fire neuron scheme for computation, interleaved with a Spike Timing Dependent Plasticity (STDP) circuit for implementing synaptic-like weights. The low-power, asynchronous analog neurons and synapses are tailored for the VLSI environment needed to effectively make use of hardware SSN systems. To demonstrate functionality, a feed-forward Spiking Neural Network composed of two layers, the first with ten neurons and the second with six, is implemented. The neuron design operates with 2.1 pJ of power per spike and 20 pJ per synaptic operation.
Vertically Well-Aligned ZnO Nanoscintillator Arrays with Improved Photoluminescence and Scintillation Properties
Authors: Kurudirek Murat , Kurudirek Sinem V. , Hertel Nolan E. , Erickson Anna , Sellin Paul J. , Mukhopadhyay Sharmistha , Astam Aykut , Summers Christopher J.
Published: October 2023

ZnO nanoarrays were grown via a low-temperature hydrothermal method. Solutions, each with different additive combinations, were prepared and evaluated. The effects of the additives involved in the growth procedure, i.e., ammonium hydroxide and sodium citrate, were studied in terms of the morphological, optical and scintillation properties of the ZnO nanostructures. Measurement of the nanorod (NR) length, corresponding photoluminescence (PL) and scintillation spectra and their dependence on the additives present in the solution are discussed. ZnO NRs grown on a silica substrate, whose UV transmission was found to be better than glass, showed high-quality structural and optical properties. It was found that the addition of sodium citrate significantly reduced defects and correspondingly increased the intrinsic near-band-edge (NBE) UV emission intensity at ~380 nm. To obtain high-quality nanostructures, samples were annealed in a 10% H2 + 90% N2 atmosphere. The anneal in the forming gas atmosphere enhanced the emission of the UV peak by reducing defects in the nanostructure. NRs are highly tapered towards the end of the structure. The tapering process was monitored using time growth studies, and its effect on PL and reflectance spectra are discussed. A good alpha particle response was obtained for the grown ZnO NRs, confirming its potential to be used as an alpha particle scintillator. After optimizing the reaction parameters, it was concluded that when ammonium hydroxide and sodium citrate were used, vertically well-aligned and long ZnO nanoarrays with highly improved optical and scintillation properties were obtained.
Additives in Nanocrystalline Tin Dioxide: Recent Progress in the Characterization of Materials for Gas Sensor Applications
Authors: Filatova Darya , Rumyantseva Marina
Published: October 2023

Tin dioxide has huge potential and is widely studied and used in different fields, including as a sensitive material in semiconductor gas sensors. The specificity of the chemical activity of tin dioxide in its interaction with the gas phase is achieved via the immobilization of various modifiers on the SnO2 surface. The type of additive, its concentration, and the distribution between the surface and the volume of SnO2 crystallites have a significant effect on semiconductor gas sensor characteristics, namely sensitivity and selectivity. This review discusses the recent approaches to analyzing the composition of SnO2-based nanocomposites (the gross quantitative elemental composition, phase composition, surface composition, electronic state of additives, and mutual distribution of the components) and systematizes experimental data obtained using a set of analytical methods for studying the concentration of additives on the surface and in the volume of SnO2 nanocrystals. The benefits and drawbacks of new approaches to the high-accuracy analysis of SnO2-based nanocomposites by ICP MS and TXRF methods are discussed.
Experimental Study of the Dynamic Short-Circuit Withstand Capability of an 8400 kVA Power Transformer Specially Designed for Photovoltaic Applications
Authors: Sălceanu Cristian-Eugeniu , Dobrea Cătălin , Ocoleanu Daniel , Nicola Marcel , Iovan Daniela , Nițu Maria-Cristina
Published: October 2023

This article, besides offering data of great value for any designer of high-power short-circuits of special three-winding design, illustrates the correlation with the corresponding FRA measurements, validating this type of measurement. The frequency response measurements can provide data about the transformer’s status after it is put into service, its vulnerability in incipient states, and, particularly for this type of transformer, its insulation, which is the subject of high dielectric stress due to its invertor working regime. This article presents the behavior of a three-phase 8400 kVA medium-voltage step-up transformer (corrugated hermetic tank) specially designed for photovoltaic applications during short-circuit tests. This transformer, fed by two inverters, has two secondaries with elliptical windings (non-circular aluminum foil for LV windings and an aluminum conductor for HV windings). Various experiments were performed, including measurements of winding resistance, measurements of voltage ratio, measurements of short-circuit impedance and load loss on three tappings, measurements of no-load loss and current, a frequency response analysis, and short-circuiting. These experiments were performed to study the behavior of the transformer, which, in real life, is powered by photovoltaic inverters on the LV side that feed into the MV grid on the HV side, making it the interface between the photovoltaic inverter and the MV grid. An auxiliary supply transformer may be connected to the LV side. Given these elements, concerning both the importance and the particularities of the problem studied, we can say that this article represents a niche study on the guarantee of good functioning and safety in operation given the passing of the test to withstand the dynamic effects of short-circuiting.
Extended Sliding Mode Observer-Based Output Feedback Control for Motion Tracking of Electro-Hydrostatic Actuators
Authors: Nguyen Manh Hung , Ahn Kyoung Kwan
Published: October 2023

This paper develops a novel output feedback control scheme for the motion-tracking problem of an electro-hydrostatic actuator (EHA) in the presence of model uncertainties and external disturbances. Firstly, a simplified third-order system model of the studied EHA is established using theoretical methods. For the first time, an extended sliding mode observer (ESMO) is introduced to simultaneously account for the shortage of unknown system states and modeling imperfections. Based on this, a robust nonlinear controller is developed using the backstepping control framework to stabilize the closed-loop system. This controller integrates estimates of immeasurable system states and lumped disturbances to deal with their adverse impacts. Moreover, the dynamic surface control (DSC) technique is employed to effectively mitigate the computational burden of the traditional backstepping framework. An ultimately uniformly bounded (UUB) performance is assured by using the recommended method. Furthermore, the stability of not only the observer but also the closed-loop system is concretely analyzed by using the Lyapunov theory. Finally, experiment results under various working scenarios are given to convincingly demonstrate the advantage of the suggested method in comparison with some reference control approaches.
Regularized Asymptotics of the Solution of a Singularly Perturbed Mixed Problem on the Semiaxis for the Schrödinger Equation with the Potential Q = X2
Authors: Yeliseev Alexander , Ratnikova Tatiana , Shaposhnikova Daria
Published: October 2023

In this paper, we study the solution of a singularly perturbed inhomogeneous mixed problem on the half-axis for the Schrödinger equation in the presence of a “strong” turning point for the limit operator on time interval that do not contain focal points. Based on the ideas of the regularization method for asymptotic integration of problems with an unstable spectrum, it is shown how regularizing functions should be constructed for this type of singularity. The paper describes in detail the formalism of the regularization method, justifies the algorithm, constructs an asymptotic solution of any order in a small parameter, and proves a theorem on the asymptotic convergence of the resulting series.
A Grey-Box Model of Laser Powder Directed Energy Deposition for Complex Scanning Strategy
Authors: Poggi Mirna , Atzeni Eleonora , De Chirico Michele , Salmi Alessandro
Published: October 2023

Directed Energy Deposition using a laser based system (DED-LB) is a technology that enables the repair of components, cutting costs and saving resources when it comes to valuable and expensive components. Furthermore, this method can be used in the production of multi-material components. Despite its benefits, DED-LB process has limitations as well, particularly in terms of resolution, surface quality, and dimensional accuracy. Optimisation of scanning parameters and strategies, as well as the use of new materials, appears to be advantageous in this regard. Simultaneously, the use of methods such as numerical simulation expedites the process of becoming familiar with the technology, thereby improving optimization tasks. DED-LB process starts with one track; the research and optimisation of its properties are crucial, as they affect the outcome of the DED-LB component. In this research article, a novel grey-box model that exhibits the ability to precisely predict the temperature distribution and track dimensions was introduced. The proposed model adopts a numerical–analytical methodology, yielding outcomes at a comparatively reduced computational expense while upholding precision in the obtained results. The proposed modelling approach is based on the solution of the heat equation coupled with an iterative feedback loop to quantify the power losses and ensure energy and mass balance at the melt pool. The model is used to forecast the temperature field and track characteristics for a collection of linear tracks while varying the main process parameters in order to study their effect on track characteristics. In addition, this model can be used to predict the course of more complex trajectories; to illustrate this, an application in which both circular and square tracks are made was presented.
Benefits of Chronic Administration of a Carbohydrate-Free Diet on Biochemical and Morphometric Parameters in a Rat Model of Diet-Induced Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Lares-Gutiérrez Diana Alejandra , Galván-Valencia Marisol , Flores-Baza Irene Jazmín , Lazalde-Ramos Blanca Patricia
Published: October 2023

Carbohydrate intake restriction positively affects markers related to metabolic syndrome (MS). However, the effects of long-term carbohydrate-free diets (CFD) have yet to be studied. The main objective of this study was to report the effects on biochemical and morphometric parameters in a rat model of MS. Male Wistar rats were initially divided into two groups: the standard diet group (SD, n = 20); and the MS group (n = 30) fed a high-glucose diet. Ten animals from each group were sacrificed after 20 weeks on their respective diets to verify MS development. The remaining MS animals were divided into two subgroups: one continued with the MS diet (n = 10); and the other transitioned to a carbohydrate-free diet (MS + CFD group, n = 10) for 20 more weeks. At week 40, parameters, including glucose, insulin, lipid profile, ketone bodies, C-reactive protein (CRP), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), urea, creatinine, liver and muscle glycogen, and serum, hepatic, renal, and pancreatic malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were assessed. Transitioning to CFD resulted in decreased caloric intake and body weight, with normalized parameters including MDA, insulin, lipid profile, ALT, liver glycogen, creatinine, and CRP levels. This shift effectively reversed the MS-induced alterations, except for glycemia and uremia, likely influenced by the diet’s high protein content stimulating gluconeogenesis. This research underscores the potential benefits of long-term carbohydrate restriction in mitigating MS-related markers.
Gender-Related Factors in Medication Adherence for Metabolic and Cardiovascular Health
Authors: Venditti Vittorio , Bleve Enrico , Morano Susanna , Filardi Tiziana
Published: October 2023

This review explores the impact of gender on medication adherence in the context of metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. Optimal adherence to medication is crucial for achieving treatment goals and preventing adverse outcomes in chronic diseases. The review examines specific conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypercholesterolemia, arterial hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, and heart failure. In type 2 diabetes, female sex, younger age, new drug prescription, non-white ethnicity, low education level, and low income were identified as predictors of non-adherence. Depressive disorders were also found to influence adherence. In hypercholesterolemia, women exhibited poorer adherence to statin therapy compared to men, with statin-related side effects and patient perception being significant factors. Adherence to anti-hypertensive therapy showed conflicting results, with studies reporting both higher and lower adherence in women. Limited evidence suggests that women may have poorer adherence after acute myocardial infarction and stroke. Regarding heart failure, adherence studies have shown inconsistent findings. The reasons for gender differences in medication adherence are multifactorial and include sociodemographic, disease-related, treatment-related, and psychological factors. This review emphasizes the need for further research to better understand these differences and develop gender-customized interventions that can improve medication adherence and reduce the burden of metabolic and cardiovascular diseases.
Antimicrobial Resistance in Bacteria from Meat and Meat Products: A One Health Perspective
Authors: Conceição Sara , Queiroga Maria Cristina , Laranjo Marta
Published: October 2023

According to the 2030 Agenda of the United Nations, one of the sustainable development goals is to ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns. The need to ensure food safety includes, other than microbiological hazards, concerns with antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) bacteria. The emergence of resistant bacteria in the food industry is essentially due to the abusive, and sometimes incorrect, administration of antimicrobials. Although not allowed in Europe, antimicrobials are often administered to promote animal growth. Each time antimicrobials are used, a selective pressure is applied to AMR bacteria. Moreover, AMR genes can be transmitted to humans through the consumption of meat-harbouring-resistant bacteria, which highlights the One Health dimension of antimicrobial resistance. Furthermore, the appropriate use of antimicrobials to ensure efficacy and the best possible outcome for the treatment of infections is regulated through the recommendations of antimicrobial stewardship. The present manuscript aims to give the current state of the art about the transmission of AMR bacteria, particularly methicillin-resistant S. aureus, ESBL-producing Enterobacteriaceae, and vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus spp., along with other ESKAPE bacteria, from animals to humans through the consumption of meat and meat products, with emphasis on pork meat and pork meat products, which are considered the most consumed worldwide.
A Study of Gentianae Radix et Rhizoma Class Differences Based on Chemical Composition and Core Efficacy
Authors: Kou Baixin , Jiang Yuxin , Chen Yanan , Yang Jingrong , Sun Jin , Yan Yan , Weng Lili , Xiao Chunping
Published: October 2023

(1) Background: Establishment of a method for evaluating Gentianae Radix et Rhizoma (GRR) classes based on chemical composition and core efficacy; (2) Methods: Liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC–MS) was used to determine the chemical constituents of GRR-first class (GF) and GRR-second class (GS). The cell viability, liver function, oxidative stress enzyme activity, and inflammatory factor levels of GF and GS on H2O2-induced HepG2 cells were determined with CCK-8, ELISA, and biochemical methods, and the antioxidant activity of the two was evaluated using bioefficacy; ELISA, biochemical methods, real-time fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) method, and Western blot (WB) were used to determine the liver function, oxidative stress enzyme activity, inflammatory factor levels, and expression of related genes and proteins in mice with acute liver injury (ALI) model induced with 0.3% CCl4 olive oil solution after gavage administration; (3) Results: GF and GS had the same types of components, but the cyclic enol ether terpenes such as morinlon goside c, loganin, gentiopicroside, and swertiamarin differed significantly between the two; the effect of GF on CCl4-induced acute hepatic injury in C57BL/6 mice was stronger compared to GS. It helped alleviate weight loss, increase hepatic and splenic indices, improve hepatic lobular structure and hepatocyte status, inhibit collagen deposition, enhance oxidative stress and anti-inflammatory-related genes and protein expression, and decrease apoptotic genes and proteins more significantly than GS; (4) Conclusions: In this study, we established a GRR class evaluation method combining chemical composition and core medicinal effects, which can rapidly determine the differential composition of GF and GS, detect the quality of GRR through antioxidant bioefficacy, and validate it with in vivo experiments, which provides references for the evaluation of the class of GRR and the rational use of medication in the clinic.
Immersive Unit Visualization with Augmented Reality
Authors: Marques Ana Beatriz , Branco Vasco , Costa Rui , Costa Nina
Published: October 2023

Immersive Unit Visualization is an emergent form of visualization that arose from Immersive Analytics where, unlike traditional visualizations, each data point is represented by an individual visual mark in an immersive virtual environment. This practice has focused almost exclusively on virtual reality, excluding augmented reality (AR). This article develops and tests a prototype of an Immersive Unit Visualization (Floating Companies II) with two AR devices: head-mounted display (HMD) and hand-held display (HHD). Results from the testing sessions with 20 users were analyzed through qualitative research analysis and thematic coding indicating that, while the HHD enabled a first contact with AR visualization on a familiar device, HMD improved the perception of hybrid space by supporting greater stability of virtual content, wider field of view, improved spatial perception, increased sense of immersion, and more realistic simulation, which had an impact on information reading and sense-making. The materialization of abstract quantitative values into concrete reality through its simulation in the real environment and the ludic dimension stand out as important opportunities for this type of visualization. This paper investigates the aspects distinguishing two experiences regarding data visualization in hybrid space, and characterizes ways of seeing information with AR, identifying opportunities to advance information design research.
Synthesis, Structural Versatility, Magnetic Properties, and I− Adsorption in a Series of Cobalt(II) Metal–Organic Frameworks with a Charge-Neutral Aliphatic (O,O)-Donor Bridge
Authors: Abasheeva Ksenia D. , Demakov Pavel A. , Polyakova Evgeniya V. , Lavrov Alexander N. , Fedin Vladimir P. , Dybtsev Danil N.
Published: October 2023

Four new metal–organic frameworks based on cobalt(II) salts and 1,4-diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane N,N’-dioxide (odabco) were obtained. Their crystallographic formulae are [Co3(odabco)2(OAc)6] (1, OAc− = acetate), [Co(H2O)2(HCOO)2]·odabco (2), [Co2(H2O)(NO3)(odabco)5](NO3)3·3.65H2O (3), and [Co2(DMF)2(odabco)4](NO3)4·3H2O (4; DMF = N,N-dimethylformamide). Crystal structures of 1–4 were determined by single-crystal X-ray crystallography. Coordination polymer 1 comprises binuclear and mononuclear metal–acetate blocks alternating within uncharged one-dimensional chains, in which odabco acts as a bridging ligand. A layered Co(II) formate 2 contains odabco only as guest molecules located in the interlayer space. Layered compound 3 and three-dimensional 4 have cationic coordination frameworks with 26% and 34% specific void volumes, respectively, unveiling high structural diversity of Co(II)-odabco MOFs based on quite a rare aliphatic moiety. Magnetization measurements were performed for 1, 3, and 4 and the obtained data were interpreted on the basis of their crystal structures. A strong (J/kB~100 K) antiferromagnetic coupling was found within binuclear metal blocks in 1. Ion exchange experiments revealed a considerable iodide uptake by 3 resulting in an up to 75% guest nitrate substitution within the voids of a coordination framework, found by capillary zone electrophoresis data and confirmed by single-crystal XRD. A preservation of 3 crystallinity during the exchange allowed for the guest I− positions within a new adduct with the formula [Co2(H2O)(NO3)(odabco)5]I2(NO3)·1.85H2O (3-I) to be successfully determined and the odabco aliphatic core to be revealed as a main adsorption center for quite large and easily polarizable iodide anions. In summary, this work presents a comprehensive study for a series of 1,4-diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane N,N’-dioxide-based MOFs of cobalt(II) within the framework of magnetic properties and reports the first example of anion exchange in odabco-based coordination networks, supported by direct X-ray structural data. The reported results unveil promising applications of such frameworks bearing ligands with an aliphatic core in the diverse structural design of selective adsorbents and other types of functional materials.
Peelable Alginate Films Reinforced by Carbon Nanofibers Decorated with Antimicrobial Nanoparticles for Immediate Biological Decontamination of Surfaces
Authors: Toader Gabriela , Diacon Aurel , Rusen Edina , Mangalagiu Ionel I. , Alexandru Mioara , Zorilă Florina Lucica , Mocanu Alexandra , Boldeiu Adina , Gavrilă Ana Mihaela , Trică Bogdan , Pulpea Daniela , Necolau Mădălina Ioana , Istrate Marcel
Published: October 2023

This study presents the synthesis and characterization of alginate-based nanocomposite peelable films, reinforced by carbon nanofibers (CNFs) decorated with nanoparticles that possess remarkable antimicrobial properties. These materials are suitable for immediate decontamination applications, being designed as fluid formulations that can be applied on contaminated surfaces, and subsequently, they can rapidly form a peelable film via divalent ion crosslinking and can be easily peeled and disposed of. Silver, copper, and zinc oxide nanoparticles (NPs) were synthesized using superficial oxidized carbon nanofibers (CNF-ox) as support. To obtain the decontaminating formulations, sodium alginate (ALG) was further incorporated into the colloidal solutions containing the antimicrobial nanoparticles. The properties of the initial CNF-ox-NP-ALG solutions and the resulting peelable nanocomposite hydrogels (obtained by crosslinking with zinc acetate) were assessed by rheological measurements, and mechanical investigations, respectively. The evaluation of Minimal Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and Minimal Bactericidal Concentration (MBC) for the synthesized nanoparticles (silver, copper, and zinc oxide) was performed. The best values for MIC and MBC were obtained for CNF-ox decorated with AgNPs for both types of bacterial strains: Gram-negative (MIC and MBC values (mg/L): E. coli—3 and 108; P. aeruginosa—3 and 54) and Gram-positive (MIC and MBC values (mg/L): S. aureus—13 and 27). The film-forming decontaminating formulations were also subjected to a microbiology assay consisting of the time-kill test, MIC and MBC estimations, and evaluation of the efficacity of peelable coatings in removing the biological agents from the contaminated surfaces. The best decontamination efficiencies against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa varied between 97.40% and 99.95% when employing silver-decorated CNF-ox in the decontaminating formulations. These results reveal an enhanced antimicrobial activity brought about by the synergistic effect of silver and CNF-ox, coupled with an efficient incorporation of the contaminants inside the peelable films.