bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mechanical Behavior of Repaired Monolithic Crowns: A 3D Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Soares Pablo Machado , da Rosa Lucas Saldanha , Pereira Gabriel Kalil Rocha , Valandro Luiz Felipe , Rippe Marilia Pivetta , Dal Piva Amanda Maria de Oliveira , Feilzer Albert J. , Kleverlaan Cornelis J. , Tribst João Paulo Mendes
Published: October 2023

This study evaluated the mechanical behavior and risk of failure of three CAD-CAM crowns repaired with different resin composites through a three-dimensional (3D) finite element analysis. Three-dimensional models of different cusp-repaired (conventional nanohybrid, bulk-fill, and flowable resin composites) crowns made of zirconia, lithium disilicate, and CAD-CAM resin composite were designed, fixed at the cervical level, and loaded in 100 N at the working cusps, including the repaired one. The models were analyzed to determine the Maximum Principal and Maximum Shear stresses (MPa). Complementary, an in vitro shear bond strength test (n = 10) was performed to calculate the risk of failure for each experimental group. The stress distribution among the models was similar when considering the same restorative material. The crown material affected the stress concentration, which was higher for the ceramic models (±9 MPa for shear stress; ±3 MPa for tensile stress) than for the CAD-CAM composite (±7 MPa for shear stress; ±2 MPa for tensile stress). The shear bond strength was higher for the repaired CAD-CAM resin composite (±17 MPa) when compared to the ceramics (below 12 MPa for all groups), while the repair materials showed similar behavior for each substrate. The stress distribution is more homogenous for repaired resin composite crowns, and a flowable direct resin composite seems suitable to repair ceramic crowns with less risk of failure.
Generalized Quantum Convolution for Multidimensional Data
Authors: Jeng Mingyoung , Nobel Alvir , Jha Vinayak , Levy David , Kneidel Dylan , Chaudhary Manu , Islam Ishraq , Rahman Muhammad Momin , El-Araby Esam
Published: October 2023

The convolution operation plays a vital role in a wide range of critical algorithms across various domains, such as digital image processing, convolutional neural networks, and quantum machine learning. In existing implementations, particularly in quantum neural networks, convolution operations are usually approximated by the application of filters with data strides that are equal to the filter window sizes. One challenge with these implementations is preserving the spatial and temporal localities of the input features, specifically for data with higher dimensions. In addition, the deep circuits required to perform quantum convolution with a unity stride, especially for multidimensional data, increase the risk of violating decoherence constraints. In this work, we propose depth-optimized circuits for performing generalized multidimensional quantum convolution operations with unity stride targeting applications that process data with high dimensions, such as hyperspectral imagery and remote sensing. We experimentally evaluate and demonstrate the applicability of the proposed techniques by using real-world, high-resolution, multidimensional image data on a state-of-the-art quantum simulator from IBM Quantum.
Graph Partitions in Chemistry
Authors: Michos Ioannis , Raptis Vasilios
Published: October 2023

We study partitions (equitable, externally equitable, or other) of graphs that describe physico-chemical systems at the atomic or molecular level; provide examples that show how these partitions are intimately related with symmetries of the systems; and discuss how such a link can further lead to insightful relations with the systems’ physical and chemical properties. We define a particular kind of graph partition, which we call Chemical Equitable Partition (CEP), accounting for chemical composition as well as connectivity and associate it with a quantitative measure of information reduction that accompanies its derivation. These concepts are applied to model molecular and crystalline solid systems, illustrating their potential as a means to classify atoms according to their chemical or crystallographic role. We also cluster materials in meaningful manners that take their microstructure into account and even correlate them with the materials’ physical properties.
Growth Quakes and Stasis Using Iterations of Inflating Complex Random Matrices
Authors: Benisty Henri
Published: October 2023

I extend to the case of complex matrices, rather than the case of real matrices as in a prior study, a method of iterating the operation of an “inflating random matrix” onto a state vector to describe complex growing systems. I show that the process also describes in this complex case a punctuated growth with quakes and stasis. I assess that under one such inflation step, the vector will shift to a really different one (quakes) only if the inflated matrix has sufficiently dominant new eigenvectors. The vector shall prefer stasis (a similar vector) otherwise, similar to the real-valued matrices discussed in a prior study. Specifically, in order to extend the model relevance, I assess that under various update schemes of the system’s representative vector, the bimodal distribution of the changes of the dominant eigenvalue remains the core concept. Overall, I contend that the punctuations may appropriately address the issue of growth in systems combining a large weight of history and some sudden quake occurrences, such as economic systems or ecological systems, with the advantage that unpaired complex eigenvalues provide more degrees of freedom to suit real systems. Furthermore, random matrices could be the right meeting point for exerting thermodynamic analogies in a reasonably agnostic manner in such rich contexts, taking into account the profusion of items (individuals, species, goods, etc.) and their networked, tangled interactions 50+ years after their seminal use in R.M. May’s famous “interaction induced instability” paradigm. Finally, I suggest that non-ergodic tools could be further applied for tracking the specifics of large-scale evolution paths and for checking the model’s relevance to the domains mentioned above.
Applying Image Analysis to Build a Lightweight System for Blind Obstacles Detecting of Intelligent Wheelchairs
Authors: Du Jiachen , Zhao Shenghui , Shang Cuijuan , Chen Yinong
Published: October 2023

Intelligent wheelchair blind spot obstacle detection is an important issue for semi-enclosed special environments in elderly communities. However, the LiDAR- and 3D-point-cloud-based solutions are expensive, complex to deploy, and require significant computing resources and time. This paper proposed an improved YOLOV5 lightweight obstacle detection model, named GC-YOLO, and built an obstacle dataset that consists of incomplete target images captured in the blind spot view of the smart wheelchair. The feature extraction operations are simplified in the backbone and neck sections of GC-YOLO. The backbone network uses GhostConv in the GhostNet network to replace the ordinary convolution in the original feature extraction network, reducing the model size. Meanwhile, the CoordAttention is applied, aiming to reduce the loss of location information caused by GhostConv. Further, the neck stem section uses a combination module of the lighter SE Attention module and the GhostConv module to enhance the feature extraction capability. The experimental results show that the proposed GC-YOLO outperforms the YOLO5 in terms of model parameters, GFLOPS and F1. Compared with the YOLO5, the number of model parameters and GFLOPS are reduced by 38% and 49.7%, respectively. Additionally, the F1 of the proposed GC-YOLO is improved by 10% on the PASCAL VOC dataset. Moreover, the proposed GC-YOLO achieved mAP of 90% on the custom dataset.
Characterization and Reliability Analysis of Enhancement-Mode PEALD AlN/LPCVD SiNx GaN MISFET with In Situ H2/N2 Plasma Pretreatment
Authors: Huang Chengyu , Wang Jinyan , Wang Maojun , He Jin , Li Mengjun , Zhang Bin , He Yandong
Published: October 2023

An effective in situ H2/N2 pretreatment technique for enhancement-mode GaN MISFET with a PEALD AlN/LPCVD SiNx Dual Gate Dielectric is presented. This technique features in situ H2 (15%)/N2 (85%) plasma pretreatment prior to AlN deposition. By using in situ H2 (15%)/N2 (85%) plasma pretreatment and a PEALD AlN protection layer, combined with an LPCVD SiNx gate dielectric, the quality of the AlN/GaN interface can be further improved due to the reduced interface trap densities between the AlN/GaN interface. The interface protection technique enables the successful integration of a high-quality PEALD AlN/LPCVD SiNx gate dielectric in an E-mode GaN MISFET with high performance, high stability, and high reliability. The fabricated enhancement-mode GaN MISFET exhibits a high gate swing and high channel effective mobility of 187.5 cm2/Vs, a threshold voltage of 2.9 V defined at 1 µA/mm, an on/off current ratio of 108, and a breakdown voltage of 1760 V defined at ID = 10 μm/mm. Our experiments showed a significant reduction in dynamic ON resistance and the suppression of current collapse when using the enhancement-mode GaN MISFET with PEALD AlN/LPCVD SiNx under high drain bias switching conditions, especially when the VDS is greater than the 60 V drain bias switch operating state.
Deep-Reinforcement-Learning-Based Dynamic Ensemble Model for Stock Prediction
Authors: Lin Wenjing , Xie Liang , Xu Haijiao
Published: October 2023

In stock prediction problems, deep ensemble models are better adapted to dynamically changing stock market environments compared to single time-series networks. However, the existing ensemble models often underutilize real-time market feedback for effective supervision, and base models are pre-trained and fixed in their optimization, which makes them lack adaptability for evolving market environments. To address this issue, we propose a deep-reinforcement-learning-based dynamic ensemble model for stock prediction (DRL-DEM). Firstly, we employ deep reinforcement learning to optimize the weights of deep-learning-based time-series models. Secondly, existing deep-reinforcement-learning methods only consider environmental rewards. Thus we improve the reward function by introducing real-time investment returns as additional feedback signals for the deep-reinforcement-learning algorithm. Finally, an alternating iterative algorithm is used to simultaneously train the base predictors and the deep-reinforcement-learning model, allowing DRL-DEM to fully utilize the supervised information for global coordinated optimization. The experimental results show that in SSE 50 and NASDAQ 100 datasets, the mean square error (MSE) of the proposed method reached 0.011 and 0.005, the Sharpe ratio (SR) reached 2.20 and 1.53, and the cumulative return (CR) reached 1.38 and 1.21. Compared with the best results in the recent model, MSE decreased by 21.4% and 28.6%, SR increased by 81.8% and 82.1%, and CR increased by 89.0% and 89.1%, with higher forecasting accuracy and stronger investment return capability.
Coupling between Cavity Resonances and Characteristic Modes on Household Appliances
Authors: Labodía Miguel , Español Jorge , Tesa Jorge , Mediano Arturo
Published: October 2023

Home appliances generally comprise a mechanical envelope, or enclosure, of electrically conductive material (steel, aluminum, etc.) that houses electrical and electronic circuits. That envelope typically includes all kind of apertures, openings, holes, slots, windows, etc., to connect—physically and electromagnetically—the external space with its internal space. The performance of that envelope is a key element to comply with surface current EMI/EMC (Electro-Magnetic Interference/Electro-Magnetic Compatibility) regulations for electromagnetic interference, both emissions and immunity. Here, we present a novel theoretical proposal that consists of establishing the mathematical relationship of the coupling between the resonant modes of an internal cavity (RMs) contained in a conductive body and the characteristic modes (CMs) on the external surface of its envelope through the openings that connect those external and internal spaces, and doing so by means of equivalent virtual surface currents located in those openings. The comparative results of simulations and actual measurements of immunity in an anechoic chamber (measurements originally oriented to other purposes) are presented as above-mentioned evidence of resonating modes coupling on the frequency range 40–1000 MHz. However, this theoretical proposal is novel and remains to be developed in greater depth and detail in future works.
Perceptions of Solar Photovoltaic System Adopters in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Case of Adopters in Ntchisi, Malawi
Authors: Ngonda Tiyamike , Nkhoma Richard , Ngonda Virginia
Published: October 2023

The study reported in this article aimed to deepen the understanding of the mechanisms driving the adoption and usage of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems in rural Malawian households, particularly among communities that have not received prior solar energy interventions. It used a qualitative approach to investigate the experiences of solar PV system adopters in Ntchisi, Malawi. The study included fourteen participants, and data were collected through observations and interviews, which were then analysed using thematic analysis procedures. The study’s findings indicate that many individuals in rural areas have installed solar PV systems that lack adequate training, resulting in potentially hazardous installations. The installation of solar PV systems in villages is motivated by several factors, including the lack of electricity, convenience, benefits, and personal interest in learning more about solar systems. The participants have highlighted numerous benefits of using solar energy, such as reduced costs, increased convenience, improved productivity, reliable energy access, and telecommunication services. However, solar PV systems are primarily limited to household lighting, phone charging, and powering televisions and radios; however, not for cooking purposes. The findings imply that governments in sub-Saharan Africa should provide training and guidance on the safe and effective use of solar PV systems, invest more in solar PV infrastructure to enable larger solar systems for cooking, refrigeration, and irrigation, and promote the use of solar energy through education and awareness campaigns to encourage greater adoption of solar energy.
Mechanisms and Operational Strategies of Multi-Lateral Steam-Assisted Gravity Drainage (SAGD) for Heterogeneous Reservoirs
Authors: Luo Chihui , Wu Yongbin , He Wanjun , Gao Yu , Liu Jia
Published: October 2023

As the SAGD steam chamber and production performance in heavy oil reservoirs under fluvial sedimentation environment are heavily impacted by reservoir heterogeneity, an innovative strategy was proposed in this study coupling rock dilation and multi-lateral wells in SAGD projects to break the mud barriers and achieve uniform steam chamber growth. True tri-axial experiments and numerical simulation were designed to validate the feasibility of this strategy, based on which the branches of the SAGD well pairs were designed and the operational parameters were optimized for different geologic heterogeneity conditions. The tri-axial experiment results indicate that the rock formations in the heavy oil reservoirs of the F oilfield exhibit significant shear dilation effects under low confinement pressure conditions, with a volumetric dilation capacity of up to 7%. The branches should be deployed in an interleaved manner, with a horizontal displacement of 20 m and a vertical displacement of 6 m. The optimal results are achieved when the branches intersect the interbeds, allowing for enhanced steam chamber conformance and enlarged volume. Dilation zones of 3–8 m can be created above the steam-injection horizontal wells and around the branches in the reservoir during the dilation of SAGD steam chambers. The maximum volume of dilation fluid used for hydraulic dilation is suggested to be less than 2000 m3. This strategy has been validated as being successful in the pilot SAGD well pair in the F oilfield, China, with the SAGD preheating time reduced by 50% and an incremental oil rate of 4.5 tones/day, indicating encouraging potentials in similar heavy oil reservoirs.
Carbon Emission Prediction and the Reduction Pathway in Industrial Parks: A Scenario Analysis Based on the Integration of the LEAP Model with LMDI Decomposition
Authors: Feng Dawei , Xu Wenchao , Gao Xinyu , Yang Yun , Feng Shirui , Yang Xiaohu , Li Hailong
Published: October 2023

Global climate change imposes significant challenges on the ecological environment and human sustainability. Industrial parks, in line with the national climate change mitigation strategy, are key targets for low-carbon revolution within the industrial sector. To predict the carbon emission of industrial parks and formulate the strategic path of emission reduction, this paper amalgamates the benefits of the “top-down” and “bottom-up” prediction methodologies, incorporating the logarithmic mean divisia index (LMDI) decomposition method and long-range energy alternatives planning (LEAP) model, and integrates the Tapio decoupling theory to predict the carbon emissions of an industrial park cluster of an economic development zone in Yancheng from 2020 to 2035 under baseline (BAS) and low-carbon scenarios (LC1, LC2, and LC3). The findings suggest that, in comparison to the BAS scenario, the carbon emissions in the LC1, LC2, and LC3 scenarios decreased by 30.4%, 38.4%, and 46.2%, respectively, with LC3 being the most suitable pathway for the park’s development. Finally, the paper explores carbon emission sources, and analyzes emission reduction potential and optimization measures of the energy structure, thus providing a reference for the formulation of emission reduction strategies for industrial parks.
Prediction of Dynamic Temperature and Thermal Front in a Multi-Aquifer Thermal Energy Storage System with Reinjection
Authors: Huang Guoshu , Liu Liang , Mu Mangen , Yang Jian , Ding Hui
Published: October 2023

The accurate temperature and thermal front prediction in aquifer thermal energy storage systems during reinjection are crucial for optimal management and sustainable utilization. In this paper, a novel two-way fully coupled thermo–hydro model was developed to investigate the dynamic thermal performance and fronts for multiple aquifer thermal energy storage systems. The model was validated using a typical model, and the evolution characteristics of wellbore temperature before and after the breakthrough of the hydraulic front and thermal front were deeply studied. Sensitivity analysis was conducted to delineate the influence of various reservoir and reinjection factors on the thermal extraction temperature (TET). The results revealed that thermal conductivity significantly impacts the thermal extraction rate among the various reservoir factors. In contrast, volumetric heat capacity has the weakest influence and negatively correlates with the TET. Concerning the reinjection factors, the effect of the reinjection volume rate on the TET was significantly more significant than the reinjection temperature. Furthermore, the correlation between the TET and different properties was observed to be seriously affected by the exploitation period. The coupled model presented in this study offers insight into designing the exploitation scheme in deep reservoirs and geothermal resources.
Barriers to Renewable Energy Source (RES) Installations as Determinants of Energy Consumption in EU Countries
Authors: Gajdzik Bożena , Wolniak Radosław , Nagaj Rafał , Grebski Wieslaw Wes , Romanyshyn Taras
Published: October 2023

The article presents an analysis of the statistical relationship between the determinants of and barriers to the development of renewable energy sources (RESs) in the macroeconomic system and the development of renewable energy source consumption in individual European Union countries. The article considers four key categories of RES development barriers in the European Union: political, administrative, grid infrastructural, and socioeconomic. The work is based on publicly available historical data from European Union reports, Eurostat, and the Eclareon RES Policy Monitoring Database. The empirical analysis includes all 27 countries belonging to the European Union. The research aimed to determine the impact of all four types of factors, including socioeconomic, on the development of RESs in European Union countries. The analysis uncovered that describing the European Union as a consistent region regarding the speed of renewable energy advancement and the obstacles to such progress is not accurate. Notably, a significant link exists between a strong degree of societal development and the integration of renewable energy sources. In less prosperous EU nations, economic growth plays a pivotal role in renewable energy development. Barriers of an administrative nature exert a notable influence on renewable energy development, especially in less affluent EU countries, while grid-related obstacles are prevalent in Southern–Central Europe. In nations where the proportion of renewable energy sources in electricity consumption is substantial, an excess of capacity in the renewable energy market significantly affects its growth.
Study on Improving the Energy Efficiency of a Building: Utilization of Daylight through Solar Film Sheets
Authors: Alzarooni Mohamed , Olabi Abdul Ghani , Mahmoud Montaser , Alzubaidi Safaa , Abdelkareem Mohammad Ali
Published: October 2023

Daylight can contribute to substantial reductions in the energy consumed by artificial lighting applications. However, issues such as visual comfort, illumination intensity, and availability represent major issues when daylight is relied upon to illuminate buildings. There are many technologies that are used to control received sunlight and minimize its side effects. The placement of solar film sheets on window glass is a common and popular method utilized in many buildings to minimize electric lighting energy consumption without causing undue visual discomfort to occupants. To examine the practicality of this application and its effect on room lighting, a modern office was selected in which to conduct this field study. Two measures were used to evaluate this technique: firstly, field measurements and their comparison to the specified standard illumination levels; and secondly, a short-form questionnaire survey conducted to obtain occupants’ opinions of the office lighting. Actual measurements were conducted in the selected office spaces, with and without applying solar control film coating on the window glass. Indoor luminance levels and lighting comfort were systematically recorded and analyzed. The findings of this study show that using a solar film with a visible light transmittance of 50% can achieve savings in energy consumption of up to 33% if utilized as part of an integrated lighting system.
Determining the Optimal Number of Pistons for Offshore Digital Winch Drives
Authors: Farsakoglou Thomas , Pedersen Henrik C. , Ebbesen Morten K. , Andersen Torben O.
Published: October 2023

In offshore winch drive applications, determining the required number of pistons in digital displacement motors is critical for minimizing torque ripples. Digital displacement motors have shown promise for improving energy efficiency for offshore operations, such as placing equipment on the seabed or mineral drilling. However, they are known for exhibiting significant torque ripples, which can affect load-handling precision. This paper estimates the required number of pistons for realizing a digital hydraulic winch drive based on information from a commercial winch. The proposed drive employs full-stroke displacement strategies at high speeds and partial-stroke at low speeds. By simulating steady-state operations, this study correlates torque output with position oscillations. The results show that 37 pistons are required to keep position oscillations below a benchmark threshold of 10 mm throughout the drive’s operating range to avoid hindering the drive’s performance. However, such a high piston count could result in high costs due to the large, expensive valves required for partial-stroke operations. Therefore, this paper suggests an alternative drive topology for future research, which could potentially reduce the number of pistons that are operated with partial strokes.
An Increase in the Energy Efficiency of R744 Heat-Using Thermotransformers
Authors: Arsenyev Vyacheslav , Piteľ Ján , Korol Oleksandr , Sharapov Serhii , Mižáková Jana , Pavlenko Ivan , Ivanov Vitalii
Published: October 2023

This article deals with improving waste heat transformation in heat-using thermotransformers. Based on the directives of the European Commission on refrigeration equipment requirements, the possibility of using carbon dioxide (R744) in heat-using thermotransformers was evaluated. The possibility of the effective use of heat-using thermotransformers operating within the Chistyakov–Plotnikov cycle in the heat pump mode was assessed. As a result, a comparative analysis was performed with existing modern plants for combined cycles with an expander, for the expansion of CO2 in saturated steam, a suction gas heat exchanger (SGHE), and a compressor–expander unit. The design schemes with a throttling device and an SGHE were selected for a comparative analysis. As a result, calculation models for evaluating the operating parameters for the initial and proposed design schemes were developed. These models allow for evaluating thermodynamic and mode parameters for heat-reducing thermotransformers. They also allow for ensuring energy efficiency indicators and conversion factors for each cycle. Overall, the dependencies for the cycle conversion ratio for the pressure increase stage in the compressor were obtained for various under-recovery rates. Moreover, the cycle conversion ratios for the proposed design schemes were obtained depending on the discharge pressure of the first compressor. The proposed design schemes allow for increasing the energy efficiency of heat-using thermotransformers by an average of 23%, depending on the suction pressure in the compressor.
Investigation of Key Controlling Factors and Applicability Boundaries of Natural Gas Injection for Shale Oil Development: A Case Study of Chang 7 Reservoir, Ordos Basin, China
Authors: Xie Qichao , Song Peng , Cao Likun , Shi Jian , Yang Weiguo , Abdullah Muhammad Adil , Song Jiabang , Yu Haiyang
Published: October 2023

The development of shale oil often encounters a series of challenges, such as insufficient natural energy, rapid declines in production, and low oil recovery. Given its wide availability and low cost, natural gas serves as an ideal injection medium to enhance shale oil recovery. Based on the foundational data from Chang 7 block X in the Ordos Basin and considering the influence of reservoir stress sensitivity, this study uses numerical simulation methods in conjunction with the random forest algorithm to examine gas flooding in shale oil. This research aims to identify the key factors influencing the effectiveness of natural gas flooding for shale oil and to establish a chart for the adaptive natural gas flooding development boundary. The findings suggest that, for reservoirs with permeability less than 0.2 × 10−3 μm2 and oil saturation below 55%, it is advisable to adopt longer fracture lengths during hydraulic fracturing to achieve better development results. After 10 years of gas flooding, continuing the use of this method is not recommended, and adjusting of the development strategy becomes essential. For extended development periods, avoiding long-length fractures is crucial to mitigate gas channeling and ensure the effectiveness of the development process. This study offers theoretical guidance and technical support for developing shale reservoirs with natural gas flooding.
Grid-Connected Photovoltaic Systems with Energy Storage for Ancillary Services
Authors: Soares Luccas Tadeu Farnezes , de Souza Arthur Costa , Silva Waner Wodson Aparecido Gonçalves , Pugliese Luiz Felipe , Alves Guilherme Henrique
Published: October 2023

This paper presents the topology and control of a photovoltaic inverter with an internal battery storage system in conjunction with droop control designed to perform ancillary services such as frequency and reactive power support (voltage regulation), active power dispatch through a proposal to control the charging and discharging of batteries and harmonic current compensation (active filter) in a microgrid connected to an IEEE 13-bus system. The converter in question consists of two stages, a 3-level NPC DC/AC converter and Boost and Buck-Boost DC/DC converters. The system in question is capable of helping to dampen frequency oscillations, as well as regulating the PCC charging curve by charging or discharging the battery bank. In addition, the proposed system is capable of supplying reactive power to the grid on a permanent basis, thus helping with voltage control. It is also capable of compensating for harmonic currents caused by non-linear loads connected to the PCC. In this context, we can see the multifunctionality of the photovoltaic inverter in helping to mitigate disturbances associated with the power quality, with the differential of charge and discharge control to preserve the useful life of the energy storage system. For this study, Matlab/Simulink software was used to implement and validate the proposed topology and control systems. In the computer simulations carried out, satisfactory results were obtained in relation to the execution of the ancillary services mentioned above, thus demonstrating the viability of the proposed strategy.
The Role of Biomass in Decarbonisation Efforts: Spatially Enriched Energy System Optimisation Modelling
Authors: Rečka Lukáš , Ščasný Milan , Laxton Dali Tsintskiladze
Published: October 2023

Forests are a potentially carbon-negative energy source and function as carbon sinks. However, both of these functions have become threatened significantly by spruce bark beetle infestation in Czechia. This paper assesses how this ecological issue may affect the future energy mix, and in the process, affect carbon emission reduction targets and the available share of renewable energy sources (RESs). We assess several forest development scenarios with three policy incentives: subsidising wood pellet production, striving for climate neutrality, and adhering to ecological constraints. We build a spatially enriched energy system model, TIMES-CZ, based on Eurostat’s NUTS3 regions. We find that the spruce bark beetle infestation may not exert a lasting influence on overall decarbonisation pathways, the energy mix, or system-wide costs in any forest scenario. The RESs share is affected only until 2030, and the effect is minimal, at <1.5 percentage points. Nevertheless, Czechia’s RES contribution is far below the 45% 2030 EU target. Subsidising wood pellet production is a costly transition that does not contribute to meeting the target. Limiting forest biomass availability and adhering to ecological constraints increase the overall system costs and worsen the chances of meeting decarbonisation targets.
Fertility Variation and Gene Diversity in Forest Populations
Authors: Kang Kyu-Suk , Bilir Nebi , Jeon Koeun , Kim Ye-Ji
Published: October 2023

Fertility variation, defined as a difference in the ability to create progeny (i.e., reproductive success) among individuals, was reviewed using the related available theoretical and practical literature in an attempt to contribute to and improve future studies on the subject. Fertility variation is a useful guide for various purposes such as gene conservation, seed production programs, forest genetic resource (i.e., seed sources) management, other forestry practices (e.g., regeneration), and evolutional and physiological studies. Many papers and proceedings have been published, including both theoretical and practical approaches, on how fertility variation has improved in the last two decades. Large variations in fertility were widely reported among populations within species and among species. We reviewed the literature and combined our diverse knowledge to examine fertility variations and their linkage parameters. Fertility variations and their related parameters (e.g., gene diversity, status number, effective parent number, parental–balance curves) estimated based on reproductive characteristics have been studied for many years using easy and cheap surveys that are used for different purposes in forest sciences. Their importance is increasing and their use is becoming more widespread because of these advantages, leading to improvements in research papers. While many research papers have recently been published on fertility variations and linkage parameters, a review paper has not been published to date. Therefore, a review paper is needed based on a literature survey and unpublished experience, as a guide for future studies.
Observation and Measurement of Ice Morphology in Foods: A Review
Authors: Pérez-Bermúdez Indira , Castillo-Suero Alison , Cortés-Inostroza Anielka , Jeldrez Cristóbal , Dantas Adriana , Hernández Eduardo , Orellana-Palma Patricio , Petzold Guillermo
Published: October 2023

Freezing is an effective technology with which to maintain food quality. However, the formation of ice crystals during this process can cause damage to the cellular structure, leading to food deterioration. A good understanding of the relationship between food microstructure and ice morphology, as well as the ability to effectively measure and control ice crystals, is very useful to achieve high-quality frozen foods. Hence, a brief discussion is presented on the fundamentals/principles of optical microscopic techniques (light microscopy), electronic microscopic techniques (transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM)), as well as other non-invasive techniques (X-rays, spectroscopy, and magnetic resonance) and their application to measuring ice formation rates and characterizing ice crystals, providing insight into the freezing mechanisms as well as direct monitoring of the entire process. And, in addition, this review compares (the negative and positive aspects of) the use of simple and cheap but destructive technologies (optical microscopy) with detailed microscopic technologies at the micro/nanometer scale but with pretreatments that alter the original sample (SEM and TEM), and non-destructive technologies that do not require sample preparation but which have high acquisition and operational costs. Also included are images and examples which demonstrate how useful an analysis using these techniques can be.
Growth Axis Somatostatin, Growth Hormone Receptor, and Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 Genes Express and Are Affected by the Injection of Exogenous Growth Hormone in Chinemys reevesii
Authors: Xie Rui-Lin , Liang Rui , Luo Yuan-Yuan , Ruan Zhuo-Hao , Li Yi-Fu , Liu Wen-Sheng
Published: October 2023

In this study, to explore the effect of growth hormone changes on the related genes and regulatory roles of the turtle, PCR amplification, real-time fluorescence quantitative analysis, and enzyme cutting technology were used to clone and sequence the somatostatin (SS) gene, growth hormone receptor (GHR), and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-I) sequence of Chinemys reevesii. The effects of human growth hormone on the mRNA expression of growth-axis-related genes SS, GHR, and IGF-1 in different sexes were observed. The study of the SS gene in turtles using real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR showed that the SS gene was mainly expressed in the nervous system and the digestive system, with the highest expression found in the brain, while the GHR gene and the IGF-I gene were expressed in all tissues of Chinemys reevesii. The SS gene was expressed in the brain, pituitary, liver, stomach, and intestine, with the highest expression in the brain and the lowest expression in the liver. Within 4 weeks of the injection of exogenous growth hormone, the expression level of the SS gene in the brain of both sexes first increased and then decreased, showing a parabolic trend, and the expression level of the experimental group was lower than that of the control group. After the injection of growth hormone (GH), the expression of the GHR gene in the liver of both sexes showed a significant increase in the first week, decreasing to the control group level in the second week, and then gradually increasing. Finally, a significant level of difference in the expression of the GHR gene was reached at 3 and 4 weeks. In terms of the IGF-I gene, the changing trend of the expression level in the liver was the same as that of the GHR gene. After the injection of exogenous growth hormone, although the expression of the SS gene increased the inhibition of the secretion of the GHR gene by the Reeves’ turtle, exogenous growth hormone could replace the synthesis of GH and GHR, accelerating the growth of the turtle. The experiments showed that the injection of recombinant human growth hormone affects the expression of SS, GHR, and IGF-1 genes, and promotes the growth of the Reeves’ turtle.
Identification of Niche-Specific Gene Signatures between Malignant Tumor Microenvironments by Integrating Single Cell and Spatial Transcriptomics Data
Authors: Saqib Jahanzeb , Park Beomsu , Jin Yunjung , Seo Junseo , Mo Jaewoo , Kim Junil
Published: October 2023

The tumor microenvironment significantly affects the transcriptomic states of tumor cells. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) helps elucidate the transcriptomes of individual cancer cells and their neighboring cells. However, cell dissociation results in the loss of information on neighboring cells. To address this challenge and comprehensively assess the gene activity in tissue samples, it is imperative to integrate scRNA-seq with spatial transcriptomics. In our previous study on physically interacting cell sequencing (PIC-seq), we demonstrated that gene expression in single cells is affected by neighboring cell information. In the present study, we proposed a strategy to identify niche-specific gene signatures by harmonizing scRNA-seq and spatial transcriptomic data. This approach was applied to the paired or matched scRNA-seq and Visium platform data of five cancer types: breast cancer, gastrointestinal stromal tumor, liver hepatocellular carcinoma, uterine corpus endometrial carcinoma, and ovarian cancer. We observed distinct gene signatures specific to cellular niches and their neighboring counterparts. Intriguingly, these niche-specific genes display considerable dissimilarity to cell type markers and exhibit unique functional attributes independent of the cancer types. Collectively, these results demonstrate the potential of this integrative approach for identifying novel marker genes and their spatial relationships.
Long-Term Follow-Up of Health-Related Quality of Life and Short-Term Intervention with CFTR Modulator Therapy in Adults with Cystic Fibrosis: Evaluation of Changes over Several Years with or without 33 Weeks of CFTR Modulator Therapy
Authors: Gruber Wolfgang , Welsner Matthias , Blosch Christopher , Dillenhoefer Stefanie , Olivier Margarete , Brinkmann Folke , Koerner-Rettberg Cordula , Sutharsan Sivagurunathan , Mellies Uwe , Taube Christian , Stehling Florian
Published: October 2023

Background: Longitudinal data on changes in health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in adult people with cystic fibrosis (pwCF) and the longitudinal effects of Elexacaftor/Tezacaftor/Ivacaftor therapy (ETI) on HRQoL or HRQoL domains are currently scarce. This study aimed to investigate the effects of ETI on HRQoL and compare them with those of pwCF who did not receive highly effective CFTR modulators over a longer period. Methods: Baseline assessment and follow-up data for 5.6 years in pwCF with (n = 21) and 6.5 years in pwCF without (n = 6) ETI (≥18 years) were evaluated. The assessment of HRQoL and clinical parameters was identical at both time points. HRQoL was assessed using the CFQ-R, and clinical outcomes included BMI, ppFEV1, and FEV1 z-score. Results: ETI was found to improve all HRQoL domains at more than four points over time, and their increases were significant except for vitality, digestion, treatment burden, and social functioning (p < 0.05). Without ETI, psychosocial domains remained almost constant, whereas most physical domains decreased over time. Conclusions: The results of the present study show that ETI therapy has a positive effect on HRQoL and clinical outcomes over time but not in pwCF without ETI treatment. Furthermore, our results suggest that disease progression over time affects the physical domains of HRQoL more than the psychosocial domains. Due to the small sample size and the heterogeneity of the study population (CFTR mutation genotype), the results should be interpreted with some caution.
Risky Sexual Behaviour and Sexual Victimization among Young People with Risky Substance Use in Europe—Perspectives from Belgium, Sweden, the Czech Republic, and Germany
Authors: Baldus Christiane , Elgán Tobias H. , Soyez Veerle , Tønnesen Hanne , Arnaud Nicolas , Csemy Ladislav , Thomasius Rainer
Published: October 2023

Background: Research indicates that among the risks associated with young people’s alcohol and illicit drug use are sexual risks. However, insights into co-occurrence of substance use and sexual risks in adolescent samples and possible differences across countries are limited. Methods: A sample of 1449 adolescents from Belgium, Sweden, the Czech Republic, and Germany screened positive for risky alcohol/illicit drug use in a web-based intervention against alcohol and illicit drug use. They also reported incidents of sex while being drunk and/or high on drugs, condomless sex on these occasions, and sexualized touching and sexual victimization while being drunk or high on drugs. Results: In the sample, 21.5% of the participants reported sexualized touching, 9.9% being victim to sexual assault, and 49.8% having had sex while being drunk and/or high on drugs; of the latter, 48.3% had condomless sex. Reports on having had sex while being drunk and/or high on drugs were associated with higher levels of past 30-day binge drinking. Being a victim of sexual assault was associated with past 30-day binge drinking only in young men. Conclusion: When devising preventive interventions against risky substance use in adolescents, an additional focus should be set on integrating steps against sexual risks.
Molecular Mechanisms of Tumor Progression and New Therapeutic Strategies for Urological Cancers
Authors: Ruiz de Porras Vicenç , Font Albert
Published: October 2023

Urological cancer encompasses a diverse range of tumors, including bladder, prostate, renal, upper urinary tract, and germ cell tumors [...]
Endurance Exercise Attenuates Established Progressive Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis and Is Associated with an Amelioration of Innate Immune Responses in NOD Mice
Authors: Schiffmann Daniel , Lampkemeyer Victoria , Lindner Maren , Fleck Ann-Katrin , Koch Kathrin , Eschborn Melanie , Liebmann Marie , Strecker Jan-Kolja , Minnerup Jens , Wiendl Heinz , Klotz Luisa
Published: October 2023

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease causing axonal degeneration and demyelination. Exercise in mice with active monophasic experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) attenuates disease severity associated with diverse impacts on T cell-mediated immunity. However, studies have so far focused on preventive approaches. In this study, we investigated the impact of endurance exercise on established EAE disease in a model of secondary progressive MS. When the exercise program on motorized running wheels was started at disease manifestation, the disease course was significantly ameliorated. This was associated with a significant decrease in B cell, dendritic cell, and neutrophil cell counts in the central nervous system (CNS). Furthermore, we observed an increased expression of major histocompatibility complex class II (MHC-II) as well as alterations in costimulatory molecule expression in CNS B cells and dendritic cells. In contrast, T cell responses were not altered in the CNS or periphery. Thus, exercise training is capable of attenuating the disease course even in established secondary progressive EAE, potentially via modulation of the innate immune compartment. Further studies are warranted to corroborate our findings and assess the potential of this lifestyle intervention as a complementary therapeutic strategy in secondary progressive MS patients.
Mathematical Model of Intrinsic Drug Resistance in Lung Cancer
Authors: Kozłowska Emilia , Swierniak Andrzej
Published: October 2023

Drug resistance is a bottleneck in cancer treatment. Commonly, a molecular treatment for cancer leads to the emergence of drug resistance in the long term. Thus, some drugs, despite their initial excellent response, are withdrawn from the market. Lung cancer is one of the most mutated cancers, leading to dozens of targeted therapeutics available against it. Here, we have developed a mechanistic mathematical model describing sensitization to nine groups of targeted therapeutics and the emergence of intrinsic drug resistance. As we focus only on intrinsic drug resistance, we perform the computer simulations of the model only until clinical diagnosis. We have utilized, for model calibration, the whole-exome sequencing data combined with clinical information from over 1000 non-small-cell lung cancer patients. Next, the model has been applied to find an answer to the following questions: When does intrinsic drug resistance emerge? And how long does it take for early-stage lung cancer to grow to an advanced stage? The results show that drug resistance is inevitable at diagnosis but not always detectable and that the time interval between early and advanced-stage tumors depends on the selection advantage of cancer cells.
TLDc Domain-Containing Genes in Autism Spectrum Disorder: New Players in the Oxidative Stress Response
Authors: Zucchini Cinzia , Serpe Carmela , De Sanctis Paola , Ghezzo Alessandro , Visconti Paola , Posar Annio , Facchin Federica , Marini Marina , Abruzzo Provvidenza Maria
Published: October 2023

Oxidative stress (OS) plays a key role in autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by deficits in social communication, restricted interests, and repetitive behaviors. Recent evidence suggests that the TLDc [Tre2/Bub2/Cdc16 (TBC), lysin motif (LysM), domain catalytic] domain is a highly conserved motif present in proteins that are important players in the OS response and in neuroprotection. Human proteins sharing the TLDc domain include OXR1, TLDC1, NCOA7, TBC1D24, and C20ORF118. This study was aimed at understanding whether TLDc domain-containing mRNAs together with specific microRNAs (200b-3p and 32-5p) and long noncoding RNAs (TUG1), known to target TLDc proteins, contributed to regulate the OS response in ASD. Data showed a significant increase in the levels of OXR1 and TLDC1 mRNAs in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of ASD children compared to their neurotypically developing (NTD) counterparts, along with an increase in TUG1 mRNA expression levels, suggesting its possible role in the regulation of TLDc proteins. A positive correlation between the expression of some TLDc mRNAs and the Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS) global score as well as inflammatory gene expression was found. In conclusion, our data suggest a novel biological pathway in the OS response of ASD subjects that deserves further exploration.