bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Imaging Techniques and Clinical Application of the Marrow–Blood Barrier in Hematological Malignancies
Authors: Zhang Jianling , Huang Qianqian , Bian Wenjin , Wang Jun , Guan Haonan , Niu Jinliang
Published: December 2023

The pathways through which mature blood cells in the bone marrow (BM) enter the blood stream and exit the BM, hematopoietic stem cells in the peripheral blood return to the BM, and other substances exit the BM are referred to as the marrow–blood barrier (MBB). This barrier plays an important role in the restrictive sequestration of blood cells, the release of mature blood cells, and the entry and exit of particulate matter. In some blood diseases and tumors, the presence of immature cells in the blood suggests that the MBB is damaged, mainly manifesting as increased permeability, especially in angiogenesis. Some imaging methods have been used to monitor the integrity and permeability of the MBB, such as DCE-MRI, IVIM, ASL, BOLD-MRI, and microfluidic devices, which contribute to understanding the process of related diseases and developing appropriate treatment options. In this review, we briefly introduce the theory of MBB imaging modalities along with their clinical applications.
Incidental Finding of Subannular Perfused Aortic Root Abscess
Authors: Vöhringer Luise , Bongers Malte Niklas , Helms Florian , Popov Aron Frederik
Published: December 2023

An 83-year-old female presented with aortic valve stenosis requiring surgery, which was diagnosed with a transthoracic echocardiography three years ago. However, the patient declined the surgery at that time due to personal reasons. Three years later she presented again with signs of dizziness and weakness and progression of the aortic valve stenosis. Cardiac catheterization and a computed tomography scan were performed before the planned surgery. Surprisingly, a huge subannular perfused abscess hole around the aortic root companying a pericardial effusion was revealed. The patient underwent an urgent aortic root replacement with a tissue valve and an aortic ascending replacement without any complications. Intraoperative inspection confirmed an active aortic root and valve endocarditis.
Assessment of Gastrointestinal Adverse Effects during the First Six Months of “Biktarvy” Antiretroviral Therapy: Age-Related Patterns and Their Relation with Changes of 5 kg Weight Loss/Gain in the Initial Treatment Period
Authors: Suba Madalina-Ianca , Abu-Awwad Simona-Alina , Rosca Ovidiu , Turaiche Mirela-Mădălina , Hogea Bogdan , Abu-Awwad Ahmed , Nitu Razvan , Lazureanu Voichita Elena
Published: December 2023

Background: The battle against HIV has led to the development of antiretroviral therapy (ART), including BIKTARVY®, which combines three potent agents. However, concerns about gastrointestinal side effects during the early phases of treatment have emerged, potentially impacting patient adherence and outcomes. Materials and Methods: This retrospective cohort study, conducted over four years in Romania, examined 222 patients initiated on BIKTARVY® therapy. Data were collected from electronic medical records, and stringent inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied to ensure data accuracy and relevance. Statistical analysis was performed to assess age-related patterns in gastrointestinal symptoms and their relation with significant weight loss. Results: This study revealed significant differences in the prevalence of gastrointestinal symptoms between age groups, with older patients experiencing more symptoms. Notably, diarrhea did not exhibit a statistically significant age-related difference. Furthermore, weight loss exceeding 5 kg was more common in older patients. Of the patients who continued BIKTARVY® therapy, 84.9% showed an increase in CD4 cell counts, and most expressed satisfaction with treatment. Conclusion: Understanding age-related patterns and gastrointestinal side effects of BIKTARVY® is crucial for optimizing HIV patient care. Future research should aim to corroborate and expand upon these findings, potentially leading to improved therapeutic approaches in the ongoing fight against HIV.
A Review of Emerging Technologies and Their Acceptance in Higher Education
Authors: Criollo-C Santiago , González-Rodríguez Mario , Guerrero-Arias Andrea , Urquiza-Aguiar Luis F. , Luján-Mora Sergio
Published: December 2023

The pandemic caused by COVID-19 impacted the entire world, but technological progress led to the appearance of new and innovative emerging technologies (ETs). These technologies proved to have a wide potential for use as support in education, but being a new technology, certain complications arose when it came to their application in the educational model. Nowadays, there are many digital technologies, so it is necessary to identify those that can be used in today’s education. Digital technologies have been implemented in all types of sectors, one of them being education, and the use of these technologies translates into significant improvements in educational processes and learning outcomes. Despite this, there is currently little research on the use of ETs as a support in the academic process. This research uses systematic mapping (SM) of the last 5 years, together with the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model to identify the use and acceptance of ETs in higher education. For the SM, a keyword search string was used in three scientific databases (Scopus, Web of Science, and IEEE Xplore). To apply the UTAUT, a survey was conducted with 120 students on the acceptance of ETs as support in higher education. The results obtained indicate that ETs provide some optimization of educational processes, with greater immersion and application of knowledge when using technologies such as augmented reality, virtual reality, and mobile learning. Likewise, ETs can motivate students, allowing them to reach new academic and professional achievements.
Doctoral Student Experience: The Supervisors’ Perspective
Authors: Knight Fiona , Taylor Julia , Polkinghorne Martyn
Published: December 2023

This research considers the perceptions of doctoral supervisors relating to their experience of supervising students within a single case study university in the United Kingdom (UK). A survey of supervisors was undertaken that elicited quantitative and qualitative data, which were analysed and compared with the responses from postgraduate research students from the same institution, obtained through the annual national postgraduate research experience survey. This new understanding was important to elicit as it provided us with valuable insights into various aspects of the doctoral students’ experience from a supervisory viewpoint, highlighting both strengths and areas that require improvement. By addressing the identified areas of concern, and building upon the areas of strength, the university will be able to enhance the doctoral supervision process, and so create a more positive and supportive postgraduate research environment in the future. One of the most interesting aspects to emerge from this research is the gap in perception between the supervisors’ own views and those of their doctoral students, for example regarding communication. To greater understand the identified phenomena, it is recommended that this research should continue as a longitudinal study with the survey being repeated on a biennial basis.
In-ADC, Rank-Order Filter for Digital Pixel Sensors
Authors: Kłosowski Miron , Sun Yichuang , Jendernalik Waldemar , Blakiewicz Grzegorz , Jakusz Jacek , Szczepański Stanisław
Published: December 2023

This paper presents a new implementation of the rank-order filter, which is established on a parallel-operated array of single-slope (SS) analog-to-digital converters (ADCs). The SS ADCs use an “on-the-ramp processing” technique, i.e., filtration is performed along with analog-to-digital conversion, so the final states of the converters represent a filtered image. A proof-of-concept 64 × 64 array of SS ADCs, integrated with MOS photogates, was fabricated using a standard 180 nm CMOS process. The measurement results demonstrate the full functionality of the novel filter concept, with image acquisition in both single-sampling and correlated-double-sampling (CDS) modes (CDS is digitally performed using ADCs). The experimental, massively parallel rank-order filter can process 650 frames per second with a power consumption of 4.81 mW.
Design and Performance Analysis of a [8/8/8] Charge Domain Mixed-Signal Multiply-Accumulator
Authors: Matsuzawa Akira , Martinez Alonso Abdel , Miyahara Masaya
Published: December 2023

This article describes the design and performance analysis of a charge domain mixed-signal multiply-accumulator (MAC) using RDAC, CDAC, and SAR-ADC with an 8-bit resolution for input, weight, and output. The arithmetic accuracy is mainly determined by the ADC, and the gain error has a significant impact. The mismatches and thermal noises of the RDAC and the CDAC are averaged by the number of multiply-accumulate units m connected to one ADC. As a result, if m is large enough, mismatches and thermal noises have a limited impact on the computation accuracy. Most of the computational energy is determined by the energy consumed by the SAR-ADC, and the computational energy per operation can be reduced by increasing m. This last metric is mainly determined by the charge and discharge energy of the CDAC for sufficiently large m values. Furthermore, since RDAC consumes energy unnecessarily, the turn-off timing of RDAC should be optimized. These MAC units have been designed and prototyped using 28 nm CMOS technology, integrating 12,288 arithmetic units while operating at 180 MHz, resulting in an arithmetic speed of 4.4 TOPS. The r-MVM accuracy is about 1% and a high energy efficiency of 240 TOPS/W as a MAC macro and 64.4 TOPS/W as a system has been achieved.
A Voltage-Level Optimization Method for DC Remote Power Supply of 5G Base Station Based on Converter Behavior
Authors: Zhu Binxin , Guo Hao , Wang Yizhang , Wang Kaihong
Published: December 2023

Unlike the concentrated load in urban area base stations, the strong dispersion of loads in suburban or highway base stations poses significant challenges to traditional power supply methods in terms of efficiency and cost. High-voltage direct current (HVDC) remote supply have better application potential in this scenario due to their low transmission losses, attracting much attention. However, existing research has problems such as ambiguous optimal power supply distance under different voltage levels and a lack of behavioral models for converters. Therefore, this paper starts from the behavior of underlying converters, analyzes the loss composition of different converters in HVDC long-distance supply, and establishes a refined model for converters by determining the mathematical relationship between converter losses and operating power. Considering the economic feasibility of power supply solutions throughout the lifecycle, a modeling method is proposed that optimizes the voltage level of converters considering the behavior of converters for different supply distances. The optimal voltage level for different supply distances is discussed, and the effectiveness of the model is verified through examples, providing valuable guidance for optimizing the voltage level in HVDC long-distance supply for 5G base stations.
Preparation and Properties of Graphene Reinforced Copper Electrical Contact Materials for High-Voltage Direct Current Electrical Contacts
Authors: Zhang Liang , Ye Qikai , Zeng Xiangyu , Liu Shuo , Chen Huaqiang , Tao Yingqi , Yu Xianwang , Wang Xiaozhi
Published: December 2023

With the rapid advancement of high-voltage engineering, meeting the increasingly demanding requirements for electrical contact materials in traditional high-voltage direct current (DC) contactors has become a challenge. Graphene has shown promise as an additive for enhancing the mechanical properties and functionality of reinforced polymers and ceramic matrix composites. However, its direct application in metal matrices remains challenging due to difficulties in achieving favorable wetting within carbon/metal systems, leading to inadequate dispersion of graphene and aggregation issues. In this study, we present an in situ growth method of graphene on copper powder. Employing a powder metallurgy approach, we have successfully established a continuous three-dimensional graphene interconnection network within the copper matrix. The resulting composite material not only exhibits elevated mechanical strength but also demonstrates slight improvements in conductivity and thermal conductivity. Notably, the prepared composite materials demonstrate exceptional performance in terms of friction resistance, oxidation resistance, and corrosion resistance, which are particularly suitable for applications such as electrical contact materials. These findings offer new possibilities for replacing traditional electrical contact materials in high-voltage DC contactors.
Considerations on Practical Implementation of Current Source Mode Single-Inductor Multiple-Output LED Driver
Authors: Tetervenoks Olegs , Galkin Ilya , Bubovich Alexander
Published: December 2023

There are many possible LED lighting applications where separate regulation of the LED current (luminous flux) of individual LED strings would be desirable—specialized variable correlated color temperature lights for ambient lighting, decorative lighting, surgical lights, horticultural lights, etc. Separate regulation of the current or light flux of individual LED strings is associated with a known problem: the necessity of using a controllable LED driver for each string, which increases the total component count, overall system complexity and costs. One of the possible solutions—a current source mode single-inductor multiple-output LED driver—was discussed in previous different papers. However, the practical implementation of this solution was not discussed in detail. This article aims to correct this omission.
A Multifaceted Exploration of Atmospheric Turbulence and Its Impact on Optical Systems: Structure Constant Profiles and Astronomical Seeing
Authors: Bekhrad Pasha , Leitgeb Erich , Ivanov Hristo
Published: December 2023

This study emphasizes the importance of conducting a comprehensive analysis considering the Cn2 atmospheric parameter for a reliable assessment of the seeing value. It highlights the use of the ECMWF ERA5 model to simulate pressure, temperature, and humidity profiles, enabling the evaluation of optical degradation. Accurate modeling and monitoring of temperature and humidity variables are emphasized for precise data in optical communication and astronomical observations. It also discusses the significance of optical turbulence models in understanding the impact of atmospheric turbulence on optical system performance. The validation of the selected Cn2 models is thoroughly analyzed. To evaluate the impact of the boundary layer on seeing conditions, three factors are considered. First, ERA5 data is used to simulate surface Cn2 values using the PAMELA model. Second, typical Cn2 values for specific dates in Redu are obtained. Finally, the thickness of the boundary layer, denoted as hbl, is calculated. This finding highlights the significant influence of the boundary layer on atmospheric seeing conditions and by incorporating Ibl into the models, a more accurate representation of the effects of the boundary layer on seeing quality is achieved.
SqueezeGCN: Adaptive Neighborhood Aggregation with Squeeze Module for Twitter Bot Detection Based on GCN
Authors: Fu Chengqi , Shi Shuhao , Zhang Yuxin , Zhang Yongmao , Chen Jian , Yan Bin , Qiao Kai
Published: December 2023

Despite notable advancements in bot detection methods based on Graph Neural Networks (GNNs). The efficacy of Graph Neural Networks relies heavily on the homophily assumption, which posits that nodes with the same label are more likely to form connections between them. However, the latest social bots are capable of concealing themselves by extensively interacting with authentic user accounts, forging extensive connections on social graphs, and thus deviating from the homophily assumption. Consequently, conventional Graph Neural Network methods continue to face significant challenges in detecting these novel types of social bots. To address this issue, we proposed SqueezeGCN, an adaptive neighborhood aggregation with the Squeeze Module for Twitter bot detection based on a GCN. The Squeeze Module uses a parallel multi-layer perceptron (MLP) to squeeze feature vectors into a one-dimensional representation. Subsequently, we adopted the sigmoid activation function, which normalizes values between 0 and 1, serving as node aggregation weights. The aggregation weight vector is processed by a linear layer to obtain the aggregation embedding, and the classification result is generated using a MLP classifier. This design generates adaptive aggregation weights for each node, diverging from the traditional singular neighbor aggregation approach. Our experiments demonstrate that SqueezeGCN performs well on three widely acknowledged Twitter bot detection benchmarks. Comparisons with a GCN reveal improvements of 2.37%, 15.59%, and 1.33% for the respective datasets. Furthermore, our approach demonstrates improvements when compared to state-of-the-art algorithms on the three benchmark datasets. The experimental results further affirm the exceptional effectiveness of our proposed algorithm for Twitter bot detection.
A Hardware Trojan Detection and Diagnosis Method for Gate-Level Netlists Based on Machine Learning and Graph Theory
Authors: Wang Junjie , Zhai Guangxi , Gao Hongxu , Xu Lihui , Li Xiang , Li Zeyu , Huang Zhao , Xie Changjian
Published: December 2023

The integrated circuit (IC) supply chain has become globalized, thereby inevitably introducing hardware Trojan (HT) threats during the design stage. To safeguard the integrity and security of ICs, many machine learning (ML)-based solutions have been proposed. However, most existing methods lack consideration of the integrity of HTs, thereby resulting in lower true negative rates (TNR) and true positive rate (TPRs). Therefore, to solve these problems, this paper presents a HT detection and diagnosis method for gate-level netlists (GLNs) based on ML and graph theory (GT). In this method, to address the issue of nonuniqueness in submodule partition schemes, the concept of “Maximum Single-Output Submodule (MSOS)” and a partition algorithm are introduced. In addition, to enhance the accuracy of HT diagnosis, we design an implant node search method named breadth-first comparison (BFC). With the support of the aforementioned techniques, we have completed experiments on HT detection and diagnosis. The HT implantation examples selected in this article are sourced from Trust-Hub. The experimental results demostrate the following: (1) The detection method proposed in this article, when detecting gate-level hardware trojans (GLHTs), achieves a TPR exceeding 95%, a TNR exceeding 37%, and F1 values exceeding 97%. Compared to existing methods, this method has improved the TNR for GLHTs by at least 25%. (2) The TPR for diagnosing GLHTs is consistently above 93%, and the TNR is 100%. Compared to existing methods, this method has achieved approximately a 4% improvement in the TPR and a 15% improvement in the TNR for GLHT diagnosis.
Testing Commercial Intrusion Detection Systems for Industrial Control Systems in a Substation Hardware in the Loop Testlab
Authors: Storm Jon-Martin , Houmb Siv Hilde , Kaliyar Pallavi , Erdodi Laszlo , Hagen Janne Merete
Published: December 2023

Industrial Control Systems (ICS) are increasingly integrated with Information Technology (IT) systems, blending Operational Technology (OT) and IT components. This evolution introduces new cyber-attack risks, necessitating specialized security measures like Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS). This paper presents our work on both developing an experimental protocol and conducting tests of various IDS types in a digital substation hardware in the loop (HIL) testbed, offering insights into their performance in realistic scenarios. Our findings reveal significant variations in IDS effectiveness against industrial-specific cyber-attacks, with IT-specific IDSs struggling to detect certain attacks and changing testlab conditions affecting the assessment of ICS-specific IDSs. The challenges faced in creating valid and reliable evaluation metrics underscore the complexities of replicating operational ICS conditions. This research enhances our understanding of IDS effectiveness in ICS settings and underscores the importance of further experimental research in HIL testlab environments.
A Case Study of the Use of Smart EV Charging for Peak Shaving in Local Area Grids
Authors: Meiers Josef , Frey Georg
Published: December 2023

Electricity storage systems, whether electric vehicles or stationary battery storage systems, stabilize the electricity supply grid with their flexibility and thus drive the energy transition forward. Grid peak power demand has a high impact on the energy bill for commercial electricity consumers. Using battery storage capacities (EVs or stationary battery systems) can help to reduce these peaks, applying peak shaving. This study aims to address the potential of peak shaving using a PV plant and smart unidirectional and bidirectional charging technology for two fleets of electric vehicles and two comparable configurations of stationary battery storage systems on the university campus of Saarland University in Saarbrücken as a case study. Based on an annual measurement of the grid demand power of all consumers on the campus, a simulation study was carried out to compare the peak shaving potential of seven scenarios. For the sake of simplicity, it was assumed that the vehicles are connected to the charging station during working hours and can be charged and discharged within a user-defined range of state of charge. Furthermore, only the electricity costs were included in the profitability analysis; investment and operating costs were not taken into account. Compared to a reference system without battery storage capacities and a PV plant, the overall result is that the peak-shaving potential and the associated reduction in total electricity costs increases with the exclusive use of a PV system (3.2%) via the inclusion of the EV fleet (up to 3.0% for unidirectional smart charging and 8.1% for bidirectional charging) up to a stationary battery storage system (13.3%).
Business Perspectives of Distributed System Operators for Solar Rooftop-as-a-Service
Authors: Leewiraphan Chavid , Ketjoy Nipon , Thanarak Prapita
Published: December 2023

Rising fossil energy prices and the significantly decreasing prices of energy technology have resulted in electricity consumers having the option to install solar PV rooftops to rely on the self-consumption of clean energy. However, the increase in this amount is affecting the revenue of electricity as a utility, which must adapt and develop its business model to accommodate the situation. If the utility cannot be adapted in time, it may lead to a loss of income from services and the sale of electricity from fossil energy. The utility in Thailand’s electricity market that acts as the distribution system operator (DSO) is known as the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA), and the Metropolitan Electricity Authority (MEA) is responsible for managing distribution networks and customers. There are four types of solar rooftop-as-a-service (RaaS) business perspectives they could consider as opportunities through which to minimize revenue impact. The business services were designed for the DSO customer as follows: Consulting, Design, and Installation (CDI); Operation and Maintenance (O&M); Energy Service Company (ESCO); and Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). The model comprises four customer segments: residential buildings and small-, medium-, and large-scale commercial buildings. This paper applies SWOT, Five Forces, 4P marketing, and economic impact analyses to identify the possibilities when using the DSO business model. The SWOT analysis demonstrates that ESCO and PPA are strengths in the DSO’s performance characteristics and existing customer data. In the electricity industry, both models offer enormous customer bargaining power in terms of a Five Forces analysis. The main reason is that there is currently high competition in the installation service. In the 4P analysis result, the price per unit is found to be significantly lower than in residential scenarios. Therefore, there is a format for presenting promotions with an advantage over competitors. Deploying an after-sales service that brings convenience to all customer segments is needed. The economic analysis conducted using Cournot competition game theory shows a significant differential in the Medium (M) and Large (L) customer sectors’ competition due to lower technology prices. In conclusion, with the current regulatory framework and criteria, the ESCO and PPA show the best practical model from a utility business perspective. The recommendation for DSO is to create a strategic ecosystem and to link it with private companies as their partnership business.
Insights into Properties of Biomass Energy Pellets Made from Mixtures of Woody and Non-Woody Biomass: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Rupasinghe Rajitha Lakshan , Perera Priyan , Bandara Rangika , Amarasekera Hiran , Vlosky Richard
Published: December 2023

There is a widespread global shift toward renewable energy sources, where the emphasis is on enhancing the utilization of renewable energy due to the rising costs associated with fossil fuels. In this light, biomass pellets made from woody and non-woody biomass and blends have gained increased attention. Extensive research has been conducted globally to enhance the quality of biomass pellets and to explore the potential to combine woody biomass with other non-woody forms of biomass in biomass pellet production. The heterogeneity of the raw materials used and resulting properties of the biomass pellets have led to the establishment of internationally recognized benchmarks such as the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 17225 standard to regulate pellet quality. In this article, the key mechanical, physical, chemical, and energy properties of pellets made of different non-woody herbaceous biomass are investigated, and the available test values for such properties of the pellets were meta-analyzed. A comparison of the properties of these pellets with the relevant standards was also performed. A meta-analysis of studies on biomass pellet production was conducted via a comprehensive Systematic Literature Review (SLR). The SLR focuses on determining and analyzing the average values for the key physical properties of biomass pellets using woody biomass as a component in concert with other biomass materials. In addition, the optimal range of mixtures of woody and non-woody biomass was reviewed to produce biomass pellets with potential acceptance in the marketplace. The majority of studies included in the SLR concentrate on pellets made from a mixture of biomass materials. The results show that the average values for wood/non-wood mixtures such as pellet diameter, pellet length, moisture content, ash content, fine particle content, gross calorific value, and bulk density were found to adhere to the ISO standards. However, the average mechanical durability fell short of meeting the requirements of the standards. Additional comparisons were nitrogen, sulfur, volatile matter, and fixed carbon content. The findings in this meta-analysis could be useful in directing future research focused on producing high-quality and efficient biomass pellets derived from biomass blends and mixtures.
Towards Green IT: Assessing the Environmental Impact of Public Administration
Authors: Landum Manuel , Moura M. M. M. , Reis Leonilde
Published: December 2023

The Public Administration (PA) in Portugal is impacted by the constant acceleration and evolution of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT), where the Portuguese State, transposing European Union directives, has legislated and encouraged their use as instruments of added value for the PA. Establishing rigorous and sustainable governance is crucial, ensuring that the organization’s strategic objectives are aligned with ICT and, preferably, with Green IT practices. In this context, it is necessary to be able to estimate and subsequently evaluate the impact of strategic and operational choices on improving environmental quality. For such, this article presents a framework developed to optimize ICT management practices and indicators that, in this environmental area, support the forecasting and assessment of the impact of the choices made in the search for technologically advanced solutions in the Barreiro municipality. These choices enable, among other things, a reduction in energy consumption, implying a reduction in financial costs, resulting in environmental benefits, such as a reduction in CO2 emissions into the atmosphere or less deforestation. The results presented, obtained in a real-world context, make it possible to assess the progress of alignment with Green IT in this area, as well as the overall result.
Evaluating Forest Site Quality Using the Biomass Potential Productivity Approach
Authors: Yan Xingrong , Feng Linyan , Sharma Ram P. , Duan Guangshuang , Pang Lifeng , Fu Liyong , Guo Jinping
Published: December 2023

Biomass productivity is of great significance for the evaluation of forest quality, which is important for the improvement of forest management. We propose the computational methods of biomass potential productivity (BPP) and biomass realistic productivity (BRP), both of which provide reliable practical guides for predicting forest growth under multi-aged, multi-species, and multi-layered canopy conditions. We used 2222 national forest inventory plots that were measured in four consecutive periods in the Jilin Province for this purpose. We analyzed and verified the computational methods of BPP based on the BRP and evaluated its practical significance. The results showed that growth models of the stand height, stand basal area, and stand biomass of four forest types (pure larch forest, larch broadleaf mixed forest, Mongolian oak pure forest, and Mongolian oak broadleaf mixed forest) fit adequately, BPP was greater than BRP, and this difference decreased with an increasing stand age, suggesting that the potential productivity of the middle-aged and young forest was higher than that of the mature forest, although the difference is minimal. In addition, the realistic productivity of stands with better site quality was close to the potential productivity, which is consistent with the biological significance of the potential productivity of the biomass. The degree of difference between the potential productivity of the biomass and the realistic productivity of biomass also decreases with the decline in site quality, and it can be termed as the potentially improved stand biomass. The BPP model was able to perform well in both the pure and mixed forests. The BRP not only verifies the rationality of the BPP but can be also used to quantify the forest site quality, which is helpful for evaluating forest growth and informed decision making in forestry.
Impact of Environmental Conditions on Wood Anatomical Traits of Green Alder (Alnus alnobetula) at the Alpine Treeline
Authors: Gruber Andreas , Wieser Gerhard , Fink Marion , Oberhuber Walter
Published: December 2023

Due to land use change, green alder (Alnus alnobetula), formerly restricted to moist slopes, is now expanding to drier sun-exposed sites at the alpine treeline. The highly productive shrub is forming closed thickets, establishing nitrogen-saturated species poor shrublands. To evaluate wood anatomical adaptations to changing environmental conditions, we analyzed vessel characteristics (mean vessel area, MVA; vessel density, VD; and theoretic conductive area, TCA) and axial parenchyma abundance, as well as their distribution in the annual ring at a moist north-facing and a dry south-facing site at the alpine treeline on Mt. Patscherkofel (Central European Alps, Austria). Results revealed that lower soil water availability and enhanced evaporative demand did not affect MVA while VD and TCA were significantly reduced at the dry south-facing site. This suggests that in green alder, vessel size is a static trait whereas vessel number responds plastic. Limited water availability also triggered a significant increase in axial parenchyma, confirming the important role of xylem parenchyma in water relations. Harsh environmental conditions at the distributional limit of green alder may have affected xylogenesis, leading to a near semi-ring-porous distribution of vessels and an accumulation of parenchyma in the late growing season. We conclude that in a warmer and drier climate, growth limitation and physiological stress may set limits to the distribution of Alnus alnobetula at drought-prone sites in the alpine treeline ecotone.
Identification of “Bathed” Chinese Mitten Crabs (Eriocheir sinensis) Using Geometric Morphological Analysis of the Carapace
Authors: Xu Yiqian , Xue Junren , Liu Hongbo , Jiang Tao , Chen Xiubao , Yang Jian
Published: December 2023

To confirm whether Chinese mitten crabs (Eriocheir sinensis), commonly known as hairy crabs or river crabs, in non-Yangcheng Lake areas undergo morphological convergence with the original crabs in the Yangcheng Lake purse seine and high-standard modified aquaculture ponds after being “introduced” or “bathed”-cultured, we employed a geometric morphometrics approach. This approach allowed us to compare and analyze the dynamic changes in the carapace morphology of both the original and “introduced” crabs in Yangcheng Lake and high-standard ponds in Kunshan City at 0, 7, 14, and 30 days after “bathing” culture. The geometric morphological analysis of the carapace was conducted using a system of 35 established landmarks. The stepwise discriminant analysis of the relative distortion score revealed morphological differences between “introduced” and resident original crabs in the Yangcheng Lake area and in high-standard modified ponds after 7, 14, and 30 days of bathing culture. The accuracy of the discriminant analysis was 100%. The results of the geometric morphological visualization demonstrated that the carapaces of the bathed crabs underwent adaptive changes in the water. However, even after one month of bathing culture, the “introduced” crabs in lakes and ponds could not reach the morphological characteristics of the original crabs, i.e., their carapaces did not exhibit the characteristics of the original crabs.
Aroma Profile of Merlot Red Wine Stored in Stainless-Steel Tanks and Wooden Barrels with Different Toasting Methods
Authors: Pichler Anita , Ivić Ivana , Mesić Josip , Drenjančević Mato , Kujundžić Toni , Marković Tanja , Kopjar Mirela
Published: December 2023

Stainless-steel tanks and wooden barrels are the most common wine ageing and storage vessels. Wooden barrels are often toasted to improve their chemical composition and influence on wine. The aim of this study was to investigate the changes in Merlot red wine aroma from the 2020 and 2021 vintages during 12-month storage (with sampling every 3 months) in a stainless-steel tank (SST), Excellence oak barrels with medium (EMT), medium plus (EMT+) and medium long (EMLT) toasting and a Premium oak barrel with medium toasting (PMT). The results showed that even slight differences in the time and temperature of medium toasting influenced the extraction of aroma compounds from wood to wine. The changes in individual aroma compounds depended on the vessel type, toasting level, initial wine composition and storage time. An increase in the total concentration of compounds with smoky, spicy and woody notes occurred in both wine vintages stored in wooden barrels, especially during longer storage. In samples from SST, floral, fruity and herbal aromas were more pronounced, according to the gas chromatography and sensory evaluators. Sensory evaluators rated the samples according to the 100-point test, and after 12 months of storage, 2020 and 2021 vintage Merlot stored in PMT obtained the highest points.
Variable-Step Multiscale Katz Fractal Dimension: A New Nonlinear Dynamic Metric for Ship-Radiated Noise Analysis
Authors: Li Yuxing , Zhou Yuhan , Jiao Shangbin
Published: December 2023

The Katz fractal dimension (KFD) is an effective nonlinear dynamic metric that characterizes the complexity of time series by calculating the distance between two consecutive points and has seen widespread applications across numerous fields. However, KFD is limited to depicting the complexity of information from a single scale and ignores the information buried under different scales. To tackle this limitation, we proposed the variable-step multiscale KFD (VSMKFD) by introducing a variable-step multiscale process in KFD. The proposed VSMKFD overcomes the disadvantage that the traditional coarse-grained process will shorten the length of the time series by varying the step size to obtain more sub-series, thus fully reflecting the complexity of information. Three simulated experimental results show that the VSMKFD is the most sensitive to the frequency changes of a chirp signal and has the best classification effect on noise signals and chaotic signals. Moreover, the VSMKFD outperforms five other commonly used nonlinear dynamic metrics for ship-radiated noise classification from two different databases: the National Park Service and DeepShip.
Existence Result for Coupled Random First-Order Impulsive Differential Equations with Infinite Delay
Authors: Moumen Abdelkader , Ladrani Fatima Zohra , Ferhat Mohamed , Benaissa Cherif Amin , Bouye Mohamed , Bouhali Keltoum
Published: December 2023

In this paper, we consider a system of random impulsive differential equations with infinite delay. When utilizing the nonlinear variation of Leray–Schauder’s fixed-point principles together with a technique based on separable vector-valued metrics to establish sufficient conditions for the existence of solutions, under suitable assumptions on Y1, Y2 and ϖ1, ϖ2, which greatly enriched the existence literature on this system, there is, however, no hope to discuss the uniqueness result in a convex case. In the present study, we analyzed the influence of the impulsive and infinite delay on the solutions to our system. In addition, to the best of our acknowledge, there is no result concerning coupled random system in the presence of impulsive and infinite delay.
Biomimetic Gradient Hydrogels with High Toughness and Antibacterial Properties
Authors: Zeng Mingzhu , Huang Zhimao , Cen Xiao , Zhao Yinyu , Xu Fei , Miao Jiru , Zhang Quan , Wang Rong
Published: December 2023

Traditional hydrogels, as wound dressings, usually exhibit poor mechanical strength and slow drug release performance in clinical biomedical applications. Although various strategies have been investigated to address the above issues, it remains a challenge to develop a simple method for preparing hydrogels with both toughness and controlled drug release performance. In this study, a tannic acid-reinforced poly (sulfobetaine methacrylate) (TAPS) hydrogel was fabricated via free radical polymerization, and the TAPS hydrogel was subjected to a simple electrophoresis process to obtain the hydrogels with a gradient distribution of copper ions. These gradient hydrogels showed tunable mechanical properties by changing the electrophoresis time. When the electrophoresis time reached 15 min, the hydrogel had a tensile strength of 368.14 kPa, a tensile modulus of 16.17 kPa, and a compressive strength of 42.77 MPa. It could be loaded at 50% compressive strain and then unloaded for up to 70 cycles and maintained a constant compressive stress of 1.50 MPa. The controlled release of copper from different sides of the gradient hydrogels was observed. After 6 h of incubation, the hydrogel exhibited a strong bactericidal effect on Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus and Gram-negative Escherichia coli, with low toxicity to NIH/3T3 fibroblasts. The high toughness, controlled release of copper, and enhanced antimicrobial properties of the gradient hydrogels make them excellent candidates for wound dressings in biomedical applications.
Preparation of Hydrophobic Cryogel Containing Hydroxyoxime Extractant and Its Extraction Properties of Cu(Ⅱ)
Authors: Takase Hayato , Goya Naoto , Kiyoyama Shiro , Shiomori Koichiro , Matsune Hideki
Published: December 2023

Hydrophobic cryogels with monolithic supermacropores based on poly-trimethylolpropane trimethacrylate (pTrim) containing 1-(2-Hydroxyl-5-nonyphenyl)ethanone oxime (LIX84-I) were successfully prepared by a cryo-polymerization technique using organic solvents with freezing points between room temperature and around 0 °C as solvents. The prepared cryogels were characterized in terms of macroscopic shape and porous structure. The cryogels had a monolithic supermacroporous structure and high contents of LIX84-I depending on the added amount of the extractant to the monomer solution. The amount of LIX84-I impregnated in the cryogel had a linear relationship with the added amount of LIX84-I in the monomer solution for cryo-polymerization. Cu(II) in the aqueous solution was immediately adsorbed into the cryogel containing LIX84-I.
Comparative Analysis of Transcriptome Profiles in Patients with Thromboangiitis Obliterans
Authors: Öztan Gözde , Bozbuğa Nilgün , İşsever Halim , Oğuz Fatma , Canıaz İrem , Yazıksız Nilgün , Ertan Melike , Alpagut İbrahim Ufuk
Published: December 2023

Background: Thromboangiitis obliterans (TAO) causes vascular insufficiency due to chronic inflammation and abrupt thrombosis of the medium and small arteries of the extremities. In our study, we aimed to determine biomarkers for the diagnosis of TAO by evaluating 15 male TAO patients with Shinoya diagnostic criteria and 5 healthy controls who did not have TAO-related symptoms in their family histories. Methods: The Clariom D Affymetrix platform was used to conduct microarray analysis on total RNA extracted from whole blood. A total of 477 genes (FC ≤ 5 or >5) common to the fifteen patient and five control samples were selected using comparative microarray analysis; among them, 79 genes were upregulated and 398 genes were downregulated. Results: According to FC ≤ 10 or >10, in the same TAO patient and control group, 13 genes out of 28 were upregulated, whereas 15 genes were downregulated. The 11 key genes identified according to their mean log2FC values were PLP2, RPL27A, CCL4, FMNL1, EGR1, EIF4A1, RPL9, LAMP2, RNF149, EIF4G2, and DGKZ. The genes were ranked according to their relative expression as follows: FMNL1 > RNF149 > RPL27A > EIF4G2 > EIF4A1 > LAMP2 > EGR1 > PLP2 > DGKZ > RPL9 > CCL4. Using protein–protein interaction network analysis, RPL9, RPL27A, and RPL32 were found to be closely related to EIF4G2 and EIF4A1. The Reactome pathway found pathways linked to 28 genes. These pathways included the immune system, cellular responses to stress, cytokine signaling in the immune system, and signaling by ROBO receptors. Conclusions: By figuring out the protein expression levels of the genes that have been found to explain how TAO disease works at the molecular level, it will be possible to figure out how well these chosen transcripts can diagnose and predict the disease.
Social Changes in America: The Silent Cinema Frontier and Women Pioneers
Authors: Peng Alicia Inge
Published: December 2023

Silent cinema acted as a bridge between early motion pictures and today’s film industry, playing a transformative role in shaping feminist film history and American society. This article explores pioneering American women in the silent film industry who ventured into technology, film culture, marginalized communities, and social movements. Despite the prevalence of racist and sexist propaganda, American silent films were a frontier for innovation, filmmaking, and exploring the New Women concept. This study examines 23 American silent films that have often been overlooked and rarely studied, whereby film analysis generally aligns with established feminist silent film theories. By shedding light on a previously overlooked film directed by May Tully, this study challenges the widespread belief that there existed “no women directors in 1925”. The examination of databases reaffirms American women directors’ contributions to silent films, especially during the early years of the silent film era. The results modify the previous scholarly notion that “influential women directors’ involvement was over by 1925”. Following an initial surge in their active leadership during the early years, influential women directors’ participation was over after 1922, rather than 1925.
(All-in-One) Power Supply System for Mobile and Network-Wired Raspberry Pi-Based Internet of Things Applications
Authors: Hausherr Daniel Pascal , Berben Dirk
Published: December 2023

Internet of Things (IoT) applications based on the single-board computer Raspberry Pi depend on reliable and sufficiently powerful energy systems to allow system diversity, flexibility, and available computing power. On this account, we developed an all-in-one module to simplify both the autonomous and network-wired power supply of Raspberry Pi-based systems. The module generates a stable voltage of 5.1 VDC with an available maximum current of 3 A to power a single Raspberry Pi model 3B+ or 4 and furthermore provides an additional power source of 3 VDC–12 VDC at a maximum of 3 A for use by arbitrary peripherals. To accommodate different use cases, the system has various energy supply options such as a 4S lithium polymer (LiPo) battery for autonomous operation, including a battery management and charging solution, as well as wire-based options, such as USB-C with USB Power Delivery (USB-PD) or Power over Ethernet (PoE+) via an additional module.
Understanding the Causes of Frailty Using a Life-Course Perspective: A Systematic Review
Authors: Barrera Antonio , Rezende Leandro F. M. , Sabag Angelo , Keating Christopher J. , Rey-Lopez Juan Pablo
Published: December 2023

(1) Background: Few studies have examined risk factors of frailty during early life and mid-adulthood, which may be critical to prevent frailty and/or postpone it. The aim was to identify early life and adulthood risk factors associated with frailty. (2) Methods: A systematic review of cohort studies (of at least 10 years of follow-up), using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines (PRISMA). A risk of confounding score was created by the authors for risk of bias assessment. Three databases were searched from inception until 1 January 2023 (Web of Science, Embase, PubMed). Inclusion criteria were any cohort study that evaluated associations between any risk factor and frailty. (3) Results: Overall, a total of 5765 articles were identified, with 33 meeting the inclusion criteria. Of the included studies, only 16 were categorized as having a low risk of confounding due to pre-existing diseases. The long-term risk of frailty was lower among individuals who were normal weight, physically active, consumed fruits and vegetables regularly, and refrained from tobacco smoking, excessive alcohol intake, and regular consumption of sugar or artificially sweetened drinks. (4) Conclusions: Frailty in older adults might be prevented or postponed with behaviors related to ideal cardiovascular health.