bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparing Oncologic Outcomes and Toxicity for Combined Modality Therapy vs. Carbon-Ion Radiotherapy for Previously Irradiated Locally Recurrent Rectal Cancer
Authors: Jeans Elizabeth B. , Ebner Daniel K. , Takiyama Hirotoshi , Qualls Kaitlin , Cunningham Danielle A. , Waddle Mark R. , Jethwa Krishan R. , Harmsen William S. , Hubbard Joleen M. , Dozois Eric J. , Mathis Kellie L. , Tsuji Hiroshi , Merrell Kenneth W. , Hallemeier Christopher L. , Mahajan Anita , Yamada Shigeru , Foote Robert L. , Haddock Michael G.
Published: June 2023

No standard treatment paradigm exists for previously irradiated locally recurrent rectal cancer (PILRRC). Carbon-ion radiotherapy (CIRT) may improve oncologic outcomes and reduce toxicity compared with combined modality therapy (CMT). Eighty-five patients treated at Institution A with CIRT alone (70.4 Gy/16 fx) and eighty-six at Institution B with CMT (30 Gy/15 fx chemoradiation, resection, intraoperative electron radiotherapy (IOERT)) between 2006 and 2019 were retrospectively compared. Overall survival (OS), pelvic re-recurrence (PR), distant metastasis (DM), or any disease progression (DP) were analyzed with the Kaplan–Meier model, with outcomes compared using the Cox proportional hazards model. Acute and late toxicities were compared, as was the 2-year cost. The median time to follow-up or death was 6.5 years. Median OS in the CIRT and CMT cohorts were 4.5 and 2.6 years, respectively (p ≤ 0.01). No difference was seen in the cumulative incidence of PR (p = 0.17), DM (p = 0.39), or DP (p = 0.19). Lower acute grade ≥ 2 skin and GI/GU toxicity and lower late grade ≥ 2 GU toxicities were associated with CIRT. Higher 2-year cumulative costs were associated with CMT. Oncologic outcomes were similar for patients treated with CIRT or CMT, although patient morbidity and cost were lower with CIRT, and CIRT was associated with longer OS. Prospective comparative studies are needed.
A Scoping Review of Trauma-Informed Pediatric Interventions in Response to Natural and Biologic Disasters
Authors: Burkhart Kimberly , Agarwal Neel , Kim Sehyun , Neudecker Mandy , Ievers-Landis Carolyn
Published: June 2023

A scoping review was performed of trauma-informed psychological interventions to treat anxiety, depression, and posttraumatic stress symptoms in youth in response to natural/biologic disasters. The specific aims were to identify psychosocial interventions used in response to natural/biologic disasters, report the interventions’ effectiveness, describe limitations, and provide treatment recommendations and future directions. Of the 45 studies extracted, 28 were on natural disasters and 17 on biologic disasters with the majority related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The most commonly implemented interventions were Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). The UCLA Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Reaction Index (UCLA PTSD-RI) and the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) were the most frequently used measures. Methodological rigor was varied, with 60% randomized, controlled trials. Overall, there was a significant decrease in posttraumatic stress symptoms, distress, anxiety, and depression regardless of whether the participant received CBT, TF-CBT, or EMDR. Generally, there was not a significant decrease in anxiety and depression with yoga, cognitive fear-reduction, emotion-based drawing, and community health education. Recommendations for future directions include larger-scale studies with group and on-line interventions that include younger children with moderation analyses by gender and race/ethnicity.
The Effects of Physical Activity on Academic Performance in School-Aged Children: A Systematic Review
Authors: James Joseph , Pringle Andy , Mourton Stuart , Roscoe Clare M. P.
Published: June 2023

Schools offer a unique environment to influence children’s physical activity (PA) levels positively. This study aims to systematically review the evidence surrounding how PA affects academic performance by analysing how the frequency, intensity, time, and type of PA mediate academic performance outcomes. This review was conducted using the PRISMA framework. Keyword searches were conducted in Science Direct, PubMed, and SPORTDiscus. Children that were obese, typically developing, typical weight, disabled, with a developmental disability, from a low socio-economic background, or an ethnic minority were included. A total of 19 studies were included, with a total of 6788 participants, a mean age of 9.3 years (50.2% boys, and 49.8% girls). Overall, 63.2% were nondisabled, while 36.8% were diagnosed with a disability. Two authors met, reviewed papers with regard to the inclusion criteria, and agreed on outputs to be included. Evidence suggests that associations between PA and academic performance were primarily positive or nonsignificant. PA levels of 90 min plus per week were associated with improved academic performance, as was PA performed at moderate to vigorous intensity. The optimal duration of PA was 30–60 min per session, whilst various sports induced positive academic effects. Importantly, findings support that PA does not have a deleterious effect on academic performance but can enhance it.
Scorpions, Science and Folklore in Durango City
Authors: Gonzalez-Ponce Eduardo , Rodríguez-Rangel Sofia , Martinez Raymundo , Alvarado Adrian , Ruiz-Baca Estela , Miranda Pablo , Sánchez-Rodríguez Jorge E. , Lopez-Rodriguez Angelica
Published: June 2023

Scorpions are incredible venomous animals found on almost every continent. According to fossil data, these animals have been able to adapt to the different environments from the Cambrian period until today with minimal anatomical changes. Scorpions are mostly nocturnal animals, and their ability to detect and tolerate light stimuli seems to be an essential tool for their subsistence, homing and mating. Centruroides suffuses is the most predominant specie of scorpions in Durango City, Mexico. Interestingly, and despite their life-threatening venom, these predatory arthropod animals have been adopted by locals as part of the landscape and daily life, by including them as part of their folklore and their economic resources, and learning how to take advantage of their abundance. In addition, the venom of scorpions possesses potential for therapeutic uses, while the scorpions themselves represent a nutritional food resource rich in protein, which has been poorly explored so far. Therefore, they are an excellent model for exploring the interplay between light sensibilities, survival and therapeutic–medicinal uses. Here, we review some of the potential benefits of scorpions and share the ways people in Durango City, Mexico, use UV light devices to detect and avoid or catch them for business and research purposes.
Survival Outcomes of Ewing Sarcoma and Rhabdomyosarcoma by High- versus Low-Volume Cancer Centres in British Columbia, Canada
Authors: Yeo Sarah , Lee Ursula , Xu Ying Hui , Simmons Christine , Smrke Alannah , Wang Ying
Published: June 2023

Due to the rarity and complexity of treatment for Ewing sarcoma and rhabdomyosarcoma, studies demonstrate improved patient outcomes when managed by a multidisciplinary team at high-volume centres (HVCs). Our study explores the difference in outcomes of Ewing sarcoma and rhabdomyosarcoma patients based on the centre of initial consultation in British Columbia, Canada. This retrospective study assessed adults diagnosed with Ewing sarcoma and rhabdomyosarcoma between 1 January 2000 and 31 December 2020 undergoing curative intent therapy in one of five cancer centres across the province. Seventy-seven patients were included, 46 seen at HVCs and 31 at low-volume centres (LVCs). Patients at HVCs were younger (32.1 vs. 40.8 years, p = 0.020) and more likely to receive curative intent radiation (88% vs. 67%, p = 0.047). The time from diagnosis to first chemotherapy was 24 days shorter at HVCs (26 vs. 50 days, p = 0.120). There was no significant difference in overall survival by treatment centre (HR 0.850, 95% CI 0.448–1.614). Variations in care exist amongst patients treated at HVCs vs. LVCs, which may reflect differences in access to resources, clinical specialists, and varying practice patterns across centres. This study can be used to inform decisions regarding triaging and centralization of Ewing sarcoma and rhabdomyosarcoma patient treatment.
A Retrospective Study of Staphylococcus aureus Bacteremia in a Tertiary Hospital and Factors Associated with Mortality
Authors: Ioannou Petros , Zacharioudaki Maria , Spentzouri Despoina , Koutoulakou Antonia , Kitsos-Kalyvianakis Konstantinos , Chontos Christoforos , Karakonstantis Stamatis , Maraki Sofia , Samonis George , Kofteridis Diamantis P.
Published: June 2023

Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia (SAB) is a severe infection frequently associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Recent studies have shown that SAB mortality has decreased during the last decades. However, about 25% of patients suffering from the disease will ultimately die. Hence, there is an urgent need for more timely and efficient treatment of patients with SAB. The aim of the present study was to retrospectively evaluate a cohort of SAB patients hospitalized in a tertiary hospital and to identify factors independently associated with mortality. All 256 SAB patients hospitalized from January 2005 to December 2021 in the University Hospital of Heraklion, Greece, were evaluated. Their median age was 72 years, while 101 (39.5%) were female. Most SAB patients were cared for in medical wards (80.5%). The infection was community-acquired in 49.5%. Among all strains 37.9% were methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA), however, definite treatment with an antistaphylococcal penicillin was given only in 22% of patients. Only 14.4% of patients had a repeat blood culture after the initiation of antimicrobial treatment. Infective endocarditis was present in 8%. In-hospital mortality has reached 15.9%. Female gender, older age, higher McCabe score, previous antimicrobial use, presence of a central venous catheter, neutropenia, severe sepsis, septic shock, and MRSA SAB were positively associated with in-hospital mortality, while monomicrobial bacteremia was negatively associated. The multivariate logistic regression model identified only severe sepsis (p = 0.05, odds ratio = 12.294) and septic shock (p = 0.007, odds ratio 57.18) to be independently positively associated with in-hospital mortality. The evaluation revealed high rates of inappropriate empirical antimicrobial treatment and non-adherence to guidelines, as shown, by the lack of repeat blood cultures. These data underline the urgent need for interventions with antimicrobial stewardship, increased involvement of infectious diseases physicians, educational sessions, and creation and implementation of local guidelines for improvement of the necessary steps for timely and efficient SAB treatment. Optimization of diagnostic techniques is needed to overcome challenges such as heteroresistance that may affect treatment. Clinicians should be aware of the factors associated with mortality in patients with SAB to identify those who are at a higher risk and optimize medical management.
Fecal and Circulating Biomarkers for the Non-Invasive Assessment of Intestinal Permeability
Authors: Perez-Diaz-del-Campo Nuria , Castelnuovo Gabriele , Ribaldone Davide Giuseppe , Caviglia Gian Paolo
Published: June 2023

The study of intestinal permeability is gaining growing interest due to its relevance in the onset and progression of several gastrointestinal and non-gastrointestinal diseases. Though the involvement of impaired intestinal permeability in the pathophysiology of such diseases is recognized, there is currently a need to identify non-invasive biomarkers or tools that are able to accurately detect alterations in intestinal barrier integrity. On the one hand, promising results have been reported for novel in vivo methods based on paracellular probes, i.e., methods that can directly assess paracellular permeability and, on the other hand, on fecal and circulating biomarkers able to indirectly assess epithelial barrier integrity and functionality. In this review, we aimed to summarize the current knowledge on the intestinal barrier and epithelial transport pathways and to provide an overview of the methods already available or currently under investigation for the measurement of intestinal permeability.
Retrospective Cohort Study of Shear-Wave Elastography and Computed Tomography Enterography in Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Zhang Minping , Xiao Enhua , Liu Minghui , Mei Xilong , Dai Yinghuan
Published: June 2023

Distinguishing between inflammatory and fibrotic lesions drastically influences treatment decision-making regarding Crohn’s disease. However, it is challenging to distinguish these two phenotypes before surgery. This study investigates the diagnostic yield of shear-wave elastography and computed tomography enterography to distinguish intestinal phenotypes in Crohn’s disease. Thirty-seven patients (mean age, 29.51 ± 11.52; 31 men) were evaluated with average value of shear-wave elastography (Emean) and computed tomography enterography (CTE) scores. The results demonstrated that a positive correlation between the Emean and fibrosis (Spearman’s r = 0.653, p = 0.000). The cut-off value for fibrotic lesions was 21.30 KPa (AUC: 0.877, sensitivity: 88.90%, specificity: 89.50%, 95% CI:0.755~0.999, p = 0.000). The CTE score showed a positive correlation with inflammation (Spearman’s r = 0.479, p = 0.003), and a 4.5-point grading system was the optimal cut-off value for inflammatory lesions (AUC: 0.766, sensitivity: 73.70%, specificity: 77.80%, 95% CI: 0.596~0.936, p = 0.006). Combining these two metrics improved the diagnostic performance and specificity (AUC: 0.918, specificity: 94.70%, 95% CI: 0.806~1.000, p = 0.000). In conclusion, shear-wave elastography can be used to help detect fibrotic lesions and the computed tomography enterography score emerged as a feasible predictor of inflammatory lesions. The combination of these two imaging techniques is proposed to distinguish intestinal predominant phenotypes.
Do Systemic Diseases and Medications Influence Dental Implant Osseointegration and Dental Implant Health? An Umbrella Review
Authors: D’Ambrosio Francesco , Amato Alessandra , Chiacchio Andrea , Sisalli Laura , Giordano Francesco
Published: June 2023

The aim of this umbrella review is to evaluate what are the most common medications and systemic diseases that can affect bone–implant integration, the success rate and survival rate of dental implants, peri-implant tissue health, and implant loss. Systematic reviews, with meta-analysis or not, about how systemic diseases and medications influence dental implant osseointegration, survival rate, success rate, and peri-implant diseases, published only in the English language, are electronically searched across the most important scientific databases. The present umbrella review includes eight systematic reviews, and osteoporosis and diabetes are the most investigated pathologies. Systemic diseases, such as neurologic disorders, HIV, hypothyroidism, cardiovascular diseases, and drugs, such as beta blockers, anti-hypertensives, or diuretics do not show a decreased rate of implant osseointegration. It seems that drugs, such as proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs) or serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), negatively affect implant osseointegration. Few studies compare the effects of drugs and systemic diseases on the parameters considered in this overview. It is important to underline how the results of this review need to be validated with subsequent and more reviews.
Faba Bean (Vicia faba L.) Yield Estimation Based on Dual-Sensor Data
Authors: Cui Yuxing , Ji Yishan , Liu Rong , Li Weiyu , Liu Yujiao , Liu Zehao , Zong Xuxiao , Yang Tao
Published: June 2023

Faba bean is an important member of legumes, which has richer protein levels and great development potential. Yield is an important phenotype character of crops, and early yield estimation can provide a reference for field inputs. To facilitate rapid and accurate estimation of the faba bean yield, the dual-sensor (RGB and multi-spectral) data based on unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) was collected and analyzed. For this, support vector machine (SVM), ridge regression (RR), partial least squares regression (PLS), and k-nearest neighbor (KNN) were used for yield estimation. Additionally, the fusing data from different growth periods based on UAV was first used for estimating faba bean yield to obtain better estimation accuracy. The results obtained are as follows: for a single-growth period, S2 (12 July 2019) had the best accuracy of the estimation model. For fusion data from the muti-growth period, S2 + S3 (12 August 2019) obtained the best estimation results. Furthermore, the coefficient of determination (R2) values for RF were higher than other machine learning algorithms, followed by PLS, and the estimation effects of fusion data from a dual-sensor were evidently better than from a single sensor. In a word, these results indicated that it was feasible to estimate the faba bean yield with high accuracy through data fusion based on dual-sensor data and different growth periods.
A Wireless, Battery-Powered Probe Based on a Dual-Tier CMOS SPAD Array for Charged Particle Sensing
Authors: Minga Joana , Brogi Paolo , Collazuol Gianmaria , Dalla Betta Gian-Franco , Marrocchesi Pier Simone , Morsani Fabio , Pancheri Lucio , Ratti Lodovico , Torilla Gianmarco , Vacchi Carla
Published: June 2023

A compact probe for charged particle imaging, with potential applications in source activity mapping and radio-guided surgery was designed and tested. The development of this technology holds significant implications for medical imaging, offering healthcare professionals accurate and efficient tools for diagnoses and treatments. To fulfill the portability requirements of these applications, the probe was designed for battery operation and wireless communication with a PC. The core sensor is a dual-layer CMOS SPAD detector, fabricated using 150 nm technology, which uses overlapping cells to produce a coincidence signal and reduce the dark count rate (DCR). The sensor is managed and interfaced with a microcontroller, and custom firmware was developed to facilitate communication with the sensor. The performance of the probe was evaluated by characterizing the on-board SPAD detector in terms of the DCR, and the results were consistent with the characterization measurements taken on the same chip samples using a purposely developed benchtop setup.
Design of Sensorless Control System for Permanent Magnet Linear Synchronous Motor Based on Parametric Optimization Super-Twisting Sliding Mode Observer
Authors: Du Shenhui , Wang Shaohua , Wang Yao , Jia Liangguan , Sun Weisong , Liu Yang
Published: June 2023

To improve the chattering problem caused by the terminal sliding mode control (TSMC) and sliding mode observer (SMO) in permanent magnet synchronous linear motor (PMLSM) control systems, this study presents the design of a continuous terminal sliding mode control (CTSMC) controller and an improved SMO. By enhancing the sliding mode surface, CTSMC enhances the dynamic response and robustness of the system. The observer replaces the traditional sliding mode switching law with a super-twisting (ST) algorithm, a twisting algorithm that makes use of the structural characteristics of the second-order sliding mode to ensure output continuity and reduce the observed buffeting. The sliding mode gain of the ST algorithm is optimized using the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm to acquire the optimal parameters and fully exploit the observer’s performance potential. Finally, the proposed method is simulated and tested. The comparison results show that the proposed method boosts the system’s dynamic response and robustness and reduces chattering.
A Patch Antenna with Enhanced Gain and Bandwidth for Sub-6 GHz and Sub-7 GHz 5G Wireless Applications
Authors: Noor Shehab Khan , Jusoh Muzammil , Sabapathy Thennarasan , Rambe Ali Hanafiah , Vettikalladi Hamsakutty , M. Albishi Ali , Himdi Mohamed
Published: June 2023

This paper presents a novel microstrip patch antenna design using slots and parasitic strips to operate at the n77 (3.3–4.2 GHz)/n78 (3.3–3.8 GHz) band of sub-6 GHz and n96 (5.9–7.1 GHz) band of sub-7 GHz under 5G New Radio. The proposed antenna is simulated and fabricated using an FR-4 substrate with a relative permittivity of 4.3 and copper of 0.035 mm thickness for the ground and radiating planes. A conventional patch antenna with a slot is also designed and fabricated for comparison. A comprehensive analysis of both designs is carried out to prove the superiority of the proposed antenna over conventional dual-band patch antennas. The proposed antenna achieves a wider bandwidth of 160 MHz at 3.45 GHz and 220 MHz at 5.9 GHz, with gains of 3.83 dBi and 0.576 dBi, respectively, compared to the conventional patch antenna with gains of 2.83 dBi and 0.1 dBi at the two frequencies. Parametric studies are conducted to investigate the effect of the parasitic strip’s width and length on antenna performance. The results of this study have significant implications for the deployment of high-gain compact patch antennas for sub-6 GHz and sub-7 GHz 5G wireless communications and demonstrate the potential of the proposed design to enhance performance and efficiency in these frequency bands.
Towards On-Board SAR Processing with FPGA Accelerators and a PCIe Interface
Authors: Baungarten-Leon Emilio Isaac , Martín-del-Campo-Becerra Gustavo Daniel , Ortega-Cisneros Susana , Schlemon Maron , Rivera Jorge , Reigber Andreas
Published: June 2023

This article addresses a novel methodology for the utilization of Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) accelerators in on-board Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) processing routines. The methodology consists of using High-Level Synthesis (HLS) to create Intellectual property (IP) blocks and using the Reusable Integration Framework for FPGA Accelerators (RIFFA) to develop a Peripheral Component Interconnect express (PCIe) interface between the Central Processing Unit (CPU) and the FPGA, attaining transfer rates up to 15.7 GB/s. HLS and RIFFA reduce development time (between fivefold and tenfold) by using high-level programming languages (e.g., C/C++); moreover, HLS provides optimizations like pipeline, cyclic partition, and unroll. The proposed schematic also has the advantage of being highly flexible and scalable since the IPs can be exchanged to perform different processing routines, and since RIFFA allows employing up to five FPGAs, multiple IPs can be implemented in each FPGA. Since Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) is one of the main functions in SAR processing, we present a FPGA accelerator in charge of the reordering stage of VEC-FFT (an optimized version of FFT) as a proof of concept. Results are retrieved in reversed bit order, and the conventional reordering function may consume more than half of the total clock cycles. Next, to demonstrate flexibility, an IP for matrix transposition is implemented, another computationally expensive process in SAR due to memory access.
Parameters Identification of a Permanent Magnet DC Motor: A Review
Authors: Fazdi Mohamad Farid , Hsueh Po-Wen
Published: June 2023

Since permanent magnet direct current (DC) motors are mainly used in various industrial automation applications, the demand for electric motors is increasing rapidly. However, in the mass production of electric motors, often, only random inspections are used to check the specifications and performance of electric motors. For manufacturing or engineering application staff to have a more thorough understanding of the characteristics of the motor, it is necessary to conduct a full or quick inspection during the production process to ensure the quality of the electric motor. Based on this, this literature review reveals several methods and algorithms often used to estimate DC motor parameters, given the importance of knowing the parameters of the DC motor and the lack of research on estimating the parameters of the DC motor.
Computation of Electric and Magnetic Fields Generated by Cloud-to-Cloud Lightning Channels
Authors: Petrarca Carlo , Balato Marco , Verolino Luigi , Andreotti Amedeo , Assante Dario
Published: June 2023

The paper presents analytical formulas for computation in the time domain of electromagnetic (EM) fields generated by tortuous cloud-to-cloud (CC) lightning channels over a perfectly conducting ground. For the first time, the study was not limited to a horizontal lightning path but was extended to take into account the natural, tortuous geometry of the lightning channel. After the calculation of the step response, a convolution integration was applied for the computation of the fields generated by an arbitrary current source. The produced electric and magnetic fields were then compared with the fields generated by a horizontal channel. The method can be of primary importance to evaluating the hazards for electric and electronic systems of flying aircraft, estimating the voltages induced on overhead transmission lines by CC lightning, and, in general, evaluating the induced effects on sensitive electric and electronic components. Moreover, it may represent a simple, robust, and time-saving tool for estimating important physical parameters that characterize lightning phenomena.
Monitoring and Analysis of the Operation Performance of Vertical Centrifugal Variable Frequency Pump in Water Supply System
Authors: Hu Jianyong , Wang Chaohao , Shan Chengju , Guo Yunhui
Published: June 2023

The stable operation of a variable frequency pump is of great importance to the management of a water supply project. Analyzing the operation performance based on monitoring data is necessary for maintaining the stable operation of a variable frequency pump. Several sensors are installed at six monitoring points on the pump to collect signals including vibration velocity, vibration acceleration and vibration displacement. Monitoring signals are preprocessed by smoothing, adjusting waveform trend and filtering on the basis of Fast Fourier Transform (FFT). Then, the vibration features are extracted by power spectrum analysis and cepstrum analysis methods. According to the extracted features, the vibration law and actual operation performance of a variable frequency pump under different operating conditions are analyzed. Results indicate that the vibration amplitude of the pump varies sharply under the operating conditions of [15 Hz, 20 Hz] and [30 Hz, 35 Hz]. The operating condition of [0 Hz, 15 Hz] is the restricted operating area of the pump. The vibration and noise continue increasing under the operating conditions of [35 Hz, 50 Hz] and reach the maximum values at 50 Hz. Therefore, the optimal operating is within the range of [20 Hz, 30 Hz]. Finally, by analyzing the critical values of the operating conditions, the fault diagnosis and the evaluation of the operating status are conducted.
Thermal Performance Analysis of Composite Phase Change Material of Myristic Acid-Expanded Graphite in Spherical Thermal Energy Storage Unit
Authors: Li Ji , Wang Weiqing , Deng Yimin , Gao Long , Bai Junchao , Xu Lei , Chen Jun , Yuan Zhi
Published: June 2023

In order to improve energy storage efficiency and promote the early achievement of global carbon neutrality goals, this paper proposes a spherical thermal storage unit filled with a composite phase change material (CPCM) comprising myristic acid (MA) and expanded graphite (EG). The effects of EG content and Stefan number (Ste) on the melting performance were investigated through a combination of experiments and numerical simulations. The results show that an increase in EG content (especially for ≥4 wt.% EG) leads to a temperature profile that assumes a concentric ring shape, while the melting rate increases with an increase in both the EG mass fraction and the Ste number. Compared to pure MA, the time required to complete melting was reduced by 82.2%, 85.6%, and 88.0% at EG contents of 4 wt.%, 5 wt.%, and 6 wt.%, respectively. Notably, the Ste value has a greater effect on melting when the EG content is ≤3 wt.%. The optimal EG content in the spherical cell was determined to be 4 wt.%, and a dimensionless analysis established a general correlation between the liquid mass fraction and the Fo, Ste, and Gr numbers.
Proactive Frequency Stability Scheme: A Distributed Framework Based on Particle Filters and Synchrophasors
Authors: Paramo Gian , Bretas Arturo
Published: June 2023

The reactive nature of traditional under-frequency load shedding schemes can lead to delayed response and unnecessary loss of load. This work presents a proactive framework for power system frequency stability. Bayesian filters and synchrophasors are leveraged to produce predictions after disturbances are detected. By being able to estimate the future state of frequency corrective actions can be taken before the system reaches a critical condition. This proactive approach makes it possible to optimize the response to a disturbance, which results in a decrease in the amount of compensation utilized. The framework is tested via Matlab simulations based on Kundur’s Two-Area System, and the IEEE 14-Bus System. Performance metrics are provided and evaluated against other contemporary solutions found in literature. During testing this framework outperformed other solutions by drastically reducing the amount of load dropped during compensation.
A Linear Quadratic Integral Controller for PV-Module Voltage Regulation for the Purpose of Enhancing the Classical Incremental Conductance Algorithm
Authors: Bouarroudj Noureddine , Houam Yehya , Djari Abdelhamid , Feliu-Batlle Vicente , Lakhdari Abdelkader , Benlahbib Boualam
Published: June 2023

As a result of the exhaustion of fossil energy sources and the corresponding increase of their negative environmental impact, recent research has intensively focused on regions of alternative energy resources and, especially, on solar energy. Slow tracking of the maximum power point (MPP) and fluctuations around the MPP reduce the efficiency of photovoltaic power generation systems (PV). This study offers a novel design for the MPPT controller, which we refer to as the “hybrid IC-LQI approach”, which combines the incremental conductance (IC) technique and the linear quadratic integral (LQI) controller based on the boost converter’s small signal model. We conduct a comparative study of the proposed hybrid IC-LQI, and the classical one-stage IC technique in order to show the effectiveness of our proposal under three different scenarios of weather conditions and load. According to simulation findings, the proposed hybrid IC-LQI approach has a high tracking efficiency of up to 98.92%, owing to faster tracking of MPP with very large reduction of oscillations. On the other hand, the IC technique provides less efficiency, up to 96.1%, showing very slow tracking and high oscillations. The presented analysis of the results confirms the superior performance of the developed hybrid IC-LQI technique to the classical IC technique.
The Impact of Renewable Energy Consumption and Economic Growth on Environmental Quality in Africa: A Threshold Regression Analysis
Authors: Muazu Abdullahi , Yu Qian , Alariqi Mona
Published: June 2023

Nonrenewable energy makes up a sizeable portion of Africa’s gross domestic product. The continent heavily relies on nonrenewable energy sources, such as gasoline, for industrial and commercial uses, which helps it expand and develop, especially in oil-producing nations. Incorporating nonrenewable energies when analyzing the relative effects of renewable energy consumption and economic growth on environmental quality is paramount. The transition to renewable energy has been identified as a contributing factor in clean energy and sustainable development, but the consumption of renewable energy in Africa is negligible. This study employed panel threshold regression and covered data from 1990 to 2019, and examined the non-linear relationship between renewable energy consumption, economic growth, and environmental quality. According to the study’s findings, the consumption of renewable energy has a nonlinearly negative relationship with carbon emission proxied environmental quality. The relationship between environmental quality and economic growth was also shown to be nonlinearly positive, pointing to the dominance of nonrenewable resources in the African industry. The report recommends an effective policy for boosting the use of renewable energy sources in order to support clean energy and sustainable development.
An Evaluation Method of Comprehensive Performance of Retrofitted CHP District Heating Systems
Authors: Chong Daokun , Zhou Haizhu , Li Xiaoping , Zhou Lining , Li Yitong , An Mingda
Published: June 2023

There is a big wave in China of retrofitting single-purpose coal-fired systems for district heating into heat-oriented combined heat and power (CHP) systems to save energy. Back-pressure steam turbines (BPSTs) and extraction steam turbines (ESTs) are both common in retrofitted systems, but contrastive analyses of their effects on the systems’ operation performance are lacking. Moreover, comprehensive evaluation methods of the retrofitted systems remain unknown. In this paper, exergy, exergoeconomic, and exergoenvironmental analyses were conducted to evaluate the thermodynamic, economic, and environmental performances of two real CHP systems: system A using a BPST and system B using an EST. Additionally, a new multi-criteria evaluation method based on rank correlation analysis was proposed for the retrofitted system. The results show that system A is better than system B in thermodynamic and environmental aspects but poorer in the economic aspect. Overall, the multi-criteria evaluation result indicates that system A has a better comprehensive performance than system B. Therefore, the BPST has a better effect than the EST on the retrofitted CHP system for district heating in this study. The findings could provide a reference point for retrofitting work in the future.
Cutting Power, Temperature, and Surface Roughness: A Multiple Target Assessment of Beech during Diamond Milling
Authors: Yu Yingyue , Buck Dietrich , Yang Haorang , Du Xiaohang , Song Meiqi , Wang Jinxin , Zhu Zhaolong
Published: June 2023

Beech wood is a material commonly used for furniture, and cutting performance is the key to improving product quality and enterprise benefits. In this work, beech milling experiments using diamond cutters were carried out, and the changes in cutting power, temperature, and surface roughness were examined using the factor analysis method. The main results of this work are listed as follows: Firstly, a higher cutting speed and depth led to higher cutting power, temperature, and surface roughness. Meanwhile, cutting power and surface roughness were negatively related to the rake angle; however, cutting temperature first increased and then decreased with the increase in rake angle. Furthermore, cutting depth had greatest impact on the cutting power and surface roughness, followed by rake angle and cutting speed. Cutting speed had the greatest contribution to the cutting temperature, followed by cutting depth and rake angle. Only the cutting depth had a significant contribution to both cutting power, temperature, and surface roughness. Finally, optimal cutting parameters were determined to be a rake angle of 15°, cutting speed of 54 m/s, and depth of 0.5 mm. These values best meet the multiple objectives of lower cutting power, temperature, and surface roughness, which relate to superior product quality and enterprise benefits.
The Variations in Tracheid Length of Pseudotsuga menziesii (Mirb.) Franco Wood in Relation to Cambium Age, Site, and Growth
Authors: Ištok Iva , Sedlar Tomislav , Orešković Gordana , Jambreković Branimir
Published: June 2023

This study investigated the variations in tracheid length of Pseudotsuga menziesii (Mirb.) Franco from three sites in Croatia in relation to cambium age, within- and between-site differences, and growth rate. Tracheids are the main structural element in P. menziesii wood, varying in length following different patterns that should be precisely determined. After the maceration procedure, earlywood tracheid length (EWTL), latewood tracheid length (LWTL), annual growth ring tracheid length (RTL), earlywood ring width (EWW), latewood ring width (LWW), and annual ring width (ARW) were measured in selected annual growth rings. The significant effect of annual growth rings and zone interaction for EWTL and LWTL, as well as of annual growth rings, trees, and sites for RTL, was determined. The results conclude on the differences between the trends in EWTL and LWTL from pith toward the bark. In addition, the correlation analysis between the tracheid length and different growth patterns was investigated, and very weak or no association between the variables was detected. This research contributes to better understanding the degree of wood uniformity of P. menziesii from the technological perspective, as well as the variability factor in the optimization of forest management with favoring overall wood quality.
Rapid and Sensitive Detection of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Tea Leaves Using Magnetic Approach
Authors: Zhao Xiaohan , Feng Xiao , Chen Jingwen , Zhang Lanxin , Zhai Lingzi , Lv Sizhe , Ye Yonghao , Chen Yongqi , Zhong Tian , Yu Xi , Xiao Ying
Published: June 2023

A rapid and efficient method using an alkyl-functionalized magnetic nanoparticles-based extraction technique combined with Ultra-High Performance Liquid Chromatography was developed for the detection of trace amounts of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in tea leaves. As a popular coating for chromatographic column packing materials, C18-alkyl has been demonstrated to be effective in separating polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. Additionally, the magnetism of the nanomaterials accelerates the extraction process while their high surface ratio enables desirable dispersity in the sample matrix. Meanwhile, the adsorbents can be washed and reused 30 times without compromising recovery, which greatly reduces the budget. The effects of various parameters were investigated and optimized, and the recoveries for five analytes were in the range of 84.8–105.4%. The RSD of intra-day and inter-day were below 11.9% and 6.8%, respectively. The limits of detection and limits of quantification ranged from 1.69–9.97 ng g−1 and 5.12–30.21 ng g−1, indicating satisfactory sensitivity. Thus, the proposed methodology is rapid, highly efficient, and economical, and it expands the application of magnetic cleanup approaches in complex food matrices.
In Situ Inactivation of Selected Bacillus Strains in Brewer’s Spent Grain during Fermentation by Lactococcus lactis ATCC 11454—The Possibility of Post-Production Residues Management
Authors: Pokorski Patryk , Trząskowska Monika
Published: June 2023

The safety and quality of post-production residues is essential before they can be reused. Both to explore the possibility of reuse as a fermentation medium and the context of pathogens’ inactivation, the research aimed to characterize the fermentation system of L. lactis ATCC 11454 and brewer’s spent grain, malt and barley, especially to in situ inactivation of selected Bacillus strains during the fermentation and storage. Barley products were milled, autoclaved, hydrated and fermented with L. lactis ATCC 11454. Then, the co-fermentation with Bacillus strains was carried out. The amount of polyphenols in the samples ranged from 483.5 to 718.4 ug GAE g−1 and increased after 24 h fermentation with L. lactis ATCC 11454. The high viability of LAB in the fermented samples and after 7 days of storage at 4 °C (8 log CFU g−1) indicates the high nutrients bioavailability during the storage. Also, this co-fermentation on different barley products indicated a high reduction level (2 to 4 logs) of Bacillus due to the biosuppression effect of the LAB strain in this fermentation system. Brewer’s spent grain (BSG) fermented with L. lactis ATCC 25 11454 produces a highly effective cell-free supernatant (CFS) for suppressing Bacillus strains. This was evident in both the inhibition zone and fluorescence analysis of bacteria viability. In conclusion, the obtained results justify the use of brewer’s spent grain in selected food products, increasing their safety and nutritional value. This finding is highly beneficial in the sustainable management of post-production residues when current waste material can still serve as a source of food.
Impact of Starch Concentration on the Pasting and Rheological Properties of Gluten-Free Gels. Effects of Amylose Content and Thermal and Hydration Properties
Authors: Mauro Raúl Ricardo , Vela Antonio José , Ronda Felicidad
Published: June 2023

The pasting and rheological properties of starch gels from different botanical origins have been widely used to evaluate the application of these starches in pharmaceutical and food products. However, the ways in which these properties are modified by starch concentration and their dependence on amylose content and thermal and hydration properties have not been adequately established so far. An exhaustive study of the pasting and rheological properties of starch gels (maize and rice (normal and waxy in both cases), wheat, potato, and tapioca) at concentrations of 6.4, 7.8, 9.2, 10.6, and 11.9 g/100 g was performed. The results were evaluated in terms of a potential equation fit between each parameter and each gel concentration. The parameters determined for the gels at the studied concentrations were correlated with the hydration properties and thermal properties by applying principal component analysis (PCA). Wheat starch, followed by normal maize and normal rice starches, presented a greater capacity to modulate their gels’ pasting and viscoelastic properties via their concentration in water. On the contrary, the characteristics of waxy rice and maize, potato, and tapioca starches were barely modified by concentration in pasting assays, but the gels of potato and tapioca showed noticeable changes in their viscoelastic properties as functions of concentration. In the PCA plot, the non-waxy cereal samples (wheat, normal maize, and normal rice) were located close to each other. Wheat starch gels were the most dispersed on the graph, which is consistent with the high dependence on the concentration of the gel shown in most of the studied parameters. The waxy starches had close positions not too distant from those of the tapioca and potato samples and with little influence from amylose concentration. The potato and tapioca samples were close to the vectors of the crossover point in rheology and peak viscosity in their pasting properties. The knowledge gained from this work allows a better understanding of the effects of starch concentration on food formulations.
The Latest Craniofacial Reconstructive Techniques Using Anchored Implants after Surgical Treatment of Nasal and Paranasal Sinuses Tumors
Authors: Dżaman Karolina , Ziemska-Gorczyca Marlena , Anurin Igor , Błaszczyk Magdalena
Published: June 2023

Reconstructive surgery after surgical treatment of neoplasms in the head and neck region is always a challenge. Many factors are responsible for the success of reconstruction. The anatomy of the facial region is complex, which significantly influences the aesthetic effect of the reconstruction. Moreover, many patients undergo postoperative radiotherapy after surgical treatment, which affects the range of reconstructive techniques. The aim of this study is to review current reconstructive methods in the craniofacial region, using bone-anchored implants to attach nasal prostheses. The article also comprises the authors’ own experience with successful single-stage, Vistafix 3 osseointegrated implants for the attachment of an external nasal prosthesis in a 51-year-old man after surgical removal of squamous cell carcinoma of the nose and paranasal sinuses. The literature search for articles regarding implants in craniofacial reconstructions was performed using the three following databases: Scopus, Web of Science and MEDLINE (through PubMed), and follows the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Statement (PRISMA). A systematic literature search was set for 2018–2023 and retrieved 92 studies. From them, 18 articles were included in the review.
Relationships between Depression, Fear of Missing Out and Social Media Addiction: The Mediating Role of Self-Esteem
Authors: Sommantico Massimiliano , Ramaglia Ferdinando , Lacatena Marina
Published: June 2023

The present study examines the relationships between depression, self-esteem, fear of missing out, online fear of missing out, and social media addiction in a sample of 311 Italian young adults (66.2% women and 33.8% men), ages 18–35 yrs. (M = 23.5; SD = 3.5). The following hypotheses were tested: that depression is positively correlated with fear of missing out, online fear of missing out, and social media addiction, while being significantly negatively correlated with self-esteem; that depression, self-esteem, fear of missing out, and online fear of missing out explain social media addiction scores; that self-esteem mediates the relationship between depression and social media addiction; and that, among Italian participants between the ages of 18 and 35, younger women report higher scores on fear of missing out, online fear of missing out, and social media addiction. Results strongly supported the hypotheses. Taken together, our findings not only contribute to the growing body of research on online addictive behaviors and individuals’ well-being, but also provide support for prevention programs in the field.
Comparison of Osteoconductive Ability of Two Types of Cholesterol-Bearing Pullulan (CHP) Nanogel-Hydrogels Impregnated with BMP-2 and RANKL-Binding Peptide: Bone Histomorphometric Study in a Murine Calvarial Defect Model
Authors: Xie Cangyou , Rashed Fatma , Sasaki Yosuke , Khan Masud , Qi Jia , Kubo Yuri , Matsumoto Yoshiro , Sawada Shinichi , Sasaki Yoshihiro , Ono Takashi , Ikeda Tohru , Akiyoshi Kazunari , Aoki Kazuhiro
Published: June 2023

The receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL)-binding peptide is known to accelerate bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)-2-induced bone formation. Cholesterol-bearing pullulan (CHP)-OA nanogel-crosslinked PEG gel (CHP-OA nanogel-hydrogel) was shown to release the RANKL-binding peptide sustainably; however, an appropriate scaffold for peptide-accelerated bone formation is not determined yet. This study compares the osteoconductivity of CHP-OA hydrogel and another CHP nanogel, CHP-A nanogel-crosslinked PEG gel (CHP-A nanogel–hydrogel), in the bone formation induced by BMP-2 and the peptide. A calvarial defect model was performed in 5-week-old male mice, and scaffolds were placed in the defect. In vivo μCT was performed every week. Radiological and histological analyses after 4 weeks of scaffold placement revealed that the calcified bone area and the bone formation activity at the defect site in the CHP-OA hydrogel were significantly lower than those in the CHP-A hydrogel when the scaffolds were impregnated with both BMP-2 and the RANKL-binding peptide. The amount of induced bone was similar in both CHP-A and CHP-OA hydrogels when impregnated with BMP-2 alone. In conclusion, CHP-A hydrogel could be an appropriate scaffold compared to the CHP-OA hydrogel when the local bone formation was induced by the combination of RANKL-binding peptide and BMP-2, but not by BMP-2 alone.