bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Short-Circuit Analysis of DER-Based Microgrids in Connected and Islanded Modes of Operation
Authors: Simic Nikola , Strezoski Luka , Dumnic Boris
Published: October 2021

Since microgrids should be able to smoothly operate in two distinct modes—grid-connected and islanded, their fault currents can widely fluctuate depending on the operational mode. When the microgrid is connected to the grid, the highest fault current, by far, is supplied by the utility grid. In this mode, the fault current contribution from distributed energy resources (DERs) is less than 20%. However, when the microgrid switches to the islanded mode, the fault current contribution from the utility grid is lost and DERs are the sole fault current sources. Thus, the overall fault current in the islanded mode is multiple times lower when compared to the grid connected mode. Moreover, most of the DERs are inverter-based, with limited fault currents, which further reduces the overall fault current in the islanded mode. With the rapid rise of the microgrid penetration around the globe, this phenomenon can adversely influence the relay protection, and thus the microgrid fault current needs to be precisely analyzed. Therefore, the main purpose of this paper is to thoroughly analyze the fault current differences in two distinct operation modes of a microgrid, and to consequently derive conclusions regarding the required improvements in fault calculations and relay protection analysis in emerging microgrids. A representative microgrid test bed is developed and modelled using the in-house developed software as well as in a state-of-the-art hardware-in-the-loop environment. Several different short-circuit faults were simulated and analyzed in both grid-connected and islanded modes. The results show that the fault currents significantly differ depending on the operating mode, and thus highly influence the protection system. Moreover, test results show that the fault calculation algorithms aimed at radial distribution grids, mostly used for microgrid fault calculations in the available literature, need to be further improved to provide precise and time-efficient results when the emerging microgrids are considered. These results provide a valuable insight into the current state of the microgrids’ fault calculation and protection and reveal several important directions for future research.
Comparative Research of Thermochemical Conversion Properties of Coarse-Energy Crops
Authors: Černiauskienė Živilė , Raila Algirdas , Zvicevičius Egidijus , Tilvikienė Vita , Jankauskienė Zofija
Published: October 2021

In the world, as in Lithuania, there is a costant search for new crops suitable for energy conversion. The coarse-energy crops and their biomass studied for this paper were assessed in a comprehensive manner, i.e., not only their calorific value and ash content but also their ash melting properties and pollutants emitted during the thermochemical conversion. The calorific value of energy crops varies from 17.92 ± 0.32 to 18.50 ± 0.66 MJ kg−1 and decreases in the following order: A. dubia > M. giganteus > C. sativa. Ash content varies from 1.51 ± 0.03 to 3.36 ± 0.23% and decreases in the following order: C. sativa > A. dubia > M. giganteus. The lowest primary ash deformation (648 ± 8 °C) was recorded for C. sativa. Taking into account the specificity of our research and the changes in biomass ash content due to mineral nitrogen fertilization, it has been found that that higher levels of nitrogen fertilizers in the combustion products reduce CO and increase the total CO2 content of the combustion product. Significant changes in fertilization were usually 170 kg ha−1 for A. dubia and 90 kg ha−1 for M. giganteus. In summary, A. dubia, M. giganteus and C. sativa biomass should be used for thermochemical conversion.
Analysis of the Polish Hydrogen Strategy in the Context of the EU’s Strategic Documents on Hydrogen
Authors: Gawlik Lidia , Mokrzycki Eugeniusz
Published: October 2021

In December 2019, the European Commission unveiled an ambitious project, the European Green Deal, which aims to lead the European Union to climate neutrality by 2050. This is a significant challenge for all EU countries, and especially for Poland. The role of hydrogen in the processes of decarbonization of the economy and transport is being discussed in many countries around the world to find rational solutions to this difficult and complex problem. There is an ongoing discussion about the hydrogen economy, which covers the production of hydrogen, its storage, transport, and conversion to the desired forms of energy, primarily electricity, mechanical energy, and new fuels. The development of the hydrogen economy can significantly support the achievement of climate neutrality. The belief that hydrogen plays an important role in the transformation of the energy sector is widespread. There are many technical and economic challenges, as well as legal and logistical barriers to deal with in the transition process. The development of hydrogen technologies and a global sustainable energy system that uses hydrogen offers a real opportunity to solve the challenges facing the global energy industry: meeting the need for clean fuels, increasing the efficiency of fuel and energy production, and significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The paper provides an in-depth analysis of the Polish Hydrogen Strategy, a document that sets out the directions for the development of hydrogen use (competences and technologies) in the energy, transport, and industrial sectors. This analysis is presented against the background of the European Commission’s document ‘A Hydrogen Strategy for a Climate-Neutral Europe’. The draft project presented is a good basis for further discussion on the directions of development of the Polish economy. The Polish Hydrogen Strategy, although it was created later than the EU document, does not fully follow its guidelines. The directions for further work on the hydrogen strategy are indicated so that its final version can become a driving force for the development of the country’s economy.
The Use of IT Solutions Offered in the Public Cloud to Reduce the City’s Carbon Footprint
Authors: Turek Tomasz , Dziembek Damian , Hernes Marcin
Published: October 2021

An important trend in today’s economy is to reduce the carbon footprint of organizations, businesses and households. Modern technologies, including ICT solutions, contribute to the reduction of CO2 production. The article focuses on the potential of using the cloud computing model in managing a modern and intelligent city. Modern city offices have an extensive IT infrastructure. With the emergence of new services provided online by the offices, the server infrastructure is also developing. Server rooms together with additional devices are characterized by high demand for electricity. Along with this, significant amounts of CO2 are produced. An alternative is the use of Cloud Computing solutions, which contribute to a significant reduction of the carbon footprint. The paper analyses potential solutions that can be used in city offices. The benefits and positive impact on the environment were highlighted. The empirical research was conducted based on questionnaires received from city offices. The results obtained indicate that city halls contribute significantly to the production of CO2. Moving IT services and solutions in whole or in part to cloud computing should be considered as one of the important elements of managing a smart and green city.
Model-Free Power Control for Low-Voltage AC Dispatchable Microgrids with Multiple Points of Connection
Authors: dos Reis Geovane , Liberado Eduardo , Marafão Fernando , Sousa Clodualdo , Silva Waner , Brandao Danilo
Published: October 2021

This paper proposes a modified version of the power-based control (MPBC) applied to microgrids (µGs) with multiple points of connection (i.e., utility grid itself or any other neighboring µG). Using the MPBC, single-phase distributed energy resources (DERs) arbitrarily connected between the phases share the amounts of balanced power, while the unbalanced and homopolar power are steered only to the line-to-neutral inverters. The control technique is based on a three-level hierarchical control using narrow bandwidth, low data rate communication that properly coordinates the DERs connected to three-phase four-wire µGs. The MPBC allows the DERs to steer power flow at any of the multiple points of common coupling of a multi-PCC dispatchable µG. The modified control proposed herein is evaluated through simulation results using MATLAB/SIMULINK considering a real urban distribution grid with typical operational elements and conditions. When compared to the original power-based control (PBC), results show that a meshed µG may reach power benchmarks with accommodation time 80% lower when applying MPBC. Moreover, it may also lead to significant power loss reduction (about of 5%) in some studied cases.
Multi-Criteria Analysis in the Decision-Making Process on the Electrification of Public Transport in Cities in Poland: A Case Study Analysis
Authors: Wołek Marcin , Jagiełło Aleksander , Wolański Michał
Published: October 2021

Electromobility is one of the leading trends transforming public transport worldwide. Supported by international organizations, such as the European Union, and national cofounding, public transport operators and local authorities are taking strategic decisions on the direction and scope of the electrification of rolling stock. Most of the electric buses that are being put into operation replace the previously used conventional buses, and consequently, most of the electric buses are operating on existing bus lines. By applying a strategic approach to selecting bus routes for electrification, the advantages of electric vehicles can be maximized. Based on a case study of the Polish city of Gdynia, this paper explores the usefulness of the multi-criteria analysis for selecting the bus lines for electrification. Multi-criteria analysis methods help decision makers to consider and weigh diverse criteria that include, among others, economic, social, technological and environmental aspects. To fulfil the above purpose, the paper compares different methods for evaluating electromobility options at an early stage. The primary research methods include multi-criteria analysis, literature review and case study analysis. An example of using multi-criteria analysis in the decision-making process of in-motion charging trolleybuses to replace diesel buses on particular lines is discussed and concluded. It is found that the multi-criteria analysis method could be used at an early but important stage of the operational level when particular lines to be replaced are being discussed. Moreover, the case is made that the local context should always be considered, including features of the existing public transport systems, and that cost–benefit analysis should be conducted for the selected optimum scenario.
Fabric Analysis in Upper Crustal Post-Collisional Granitoids from the Serre Batholith (Southern Italy): Results from Microstructural and AMS Investigations
Authors: Fiannacca Patrizia , Russo Damiano , Fazio Eugenio , Cirrincione Rosolino , Mamtani Manish A.
Published: October 2021

The Serre Batholith in Central Calabria (southern Italy) represents the intermediate portion of a continuous cross-section of late Variscan continental crust. The various granitoid units of the batholith were emplaced at depths between 23 and 6 km through an overaccretion mechanism that, at its upper levels, was marked by the emplacement of two-mica granodiorites and granites (MBG) at c. 295 Ma, followed by weakly peraluminous granodiorites (BAG) at c. 292 Ma. These upper crustal granitoid rocks have recorded tectonic stresses, which affected the batholith during cooling of the magmatic bodies, exhibiting a range of deformation microstructures from submagmatic to low-temperature subsolidus conditions, but without developing an evident meso/micro-structural fabric. Anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility (AMS) was employed to identify a possible “internal” fabric of the Serre upper crustal granitoids, revealing a magnetic foliation represented by a mainly oblate AMS ellipsoid. Magnetic foliations and lineations are consistent with a stress field characterized by a shortening axis roughly oriented NW–SE. Further studies are in progress to investigate more in depth the relationships between regional tectonic structures and the emplacement of the late-Variscan Serre Batholith granitoids.
Performance Evaluation of Parallel Structure from Motion (SfM) Processing with Public Cloud Computing and an On-Premise Cluster System for UAS Images in Agriculture
Authors: Chang Anjin , Jung Jinha , Landivar Jose , Landivar Juan , Barker Bryan , Ghosh Rajib
Published: October 2021

Thanks to sensor developments, unmanned aircraft system (UAS) are the most promising modern technologies used to collect imagery datasets that can be utilized to develop agricultural applications in these days. UAS imagery datasets can grow exponentially due to the ultrafine spatial and high temporal resolution capabilities of UAS and sensors. One of the main obstacles to processing UAS data is the intensive computational resource requirements. The structure from motion (SfM) is the most popular algorithm to generate 3D point clouds, orthomosaic images, and digital elevation models (DEMs) in agricultural applications. Recently, the SfM algorithm has been implemented in parallel computing to process big UAS data faster for certain applications. This study evaluated the performance of parallel SfM processing on public cloud computing and on-premise cluster systems. The UAS datasets collected over cropping fields were used for performance evaluation. We used multiple computing nodes and centralized network storage with different network environments for the SfM workflow. In single-node processing, an instance with the most computing power in the cloud computing system performed approximately 20 and 35 percent faster than in the most powerful machine in the on-premises cluster. The parallel processing results showed that the cloud-based system performed better in speed-up and efficiency metrics for scalability, although the absolute processing time was faster in the on-premise cluster. The experimental results also showed that the public cloud computing system could be a good alternative computing environment in UAS data processing for agricultural applications.
Melatonin-Activated Receptor Signaling Pathways Mediate Protective Effects on Surfactant-Induced Increase in Jejunal Mucosal Permeability in Rats
Authors: Peters Karsten , Dahlgren David , Lennernäs Hans , Sjöblom Markus
Published: October 2021

A well-functional intestinal mucosal barrier can be compromised as a result of various diseases, chemotherapy, radiation, and chemical exposures including surfactants. Currently, there are no approved drugs targeting a dysfunctional intestinal barrier, which emphasizes a significant medical need. One candidate drug reported to regulate intestinal mucosal permeability is melatonin. However, it is still unclear if its effect is primarily receptor mediated or antioxidative, and if it is associated with enteric neural pathways. The aim of this rat intestinal perfusion study was to investigate the mechanisms of melatonin and nicotinic acetylcholine receptors on the increase in intestinal mucosal clearance of 51Cr-labeled ethylenediaminetetraacetate induced by 15 min luminal exposure to the anionic surfactant, sodium dodecyl sulfate. Our results show that melatonin abolished the surfactant-induced increase in intestinal permeability and that this effect was inhibited by luzindole, a melatonin receptor antagonist. In addition, mecamylamine, an antagonist of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, reduced the surfactant-induced increase in mucosal permeability, using a signaling pathway not influenced by melatonin receptor activation. In conclusion, our results support melatonin as a potentially potent candidate for the oral treatment of a compromised intestinal mucosal barrier, and that its protective effect is primarily receptor-mediated.
Tauroursodeoxycholic Acid Decreases Keloid Formation by Reducing Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress as Implicated in the Pathogenesis of Keloid
Authors: Kim Sunje , Lee Seong Eun , Yi Shinae , Jun Sangmi , Yi Yoon-Sun , Nagar Harsha , Kim Cuk-Seong , Shin Chungmin , Yeo Min-Kyung , Kang Yea Eun , Oh Sang-Ha
Published: October 2021

Keloids are a common form of pathologic wound healing and are characterized by an excessive production of extracellular matrix. This study examined the major contributing mechanism of human keloid pathogenesis using transcriptomic analysis. We identified the upregulation of mitochondrial oxidative stress response, protein processing in the endoplasmic reticulum, and TGF-β signaling in human keloid tissue samples compared to controls, based on ingenuity pathway and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses. Electron microscopic examinations revealed an increased number of dysmorphic mitochondria and expanded endoplasmic reticulum (ER) in human keloid tissue samples than that in controls. Western blot analysis performed using human tissues suggested noticeably higher ER stress signaling in keloids than in normal tissues. Treatment with tauroursodeoxycholic acid (TUDCA), an ER stress inhibitor, significantly decreased scar formation in rabbit models, compared to normal saline and steroid injections. In summary, our findings demonstrate the contributions of mitochondrial dysfunction and dysregulated ER stress signaling in human keloid formation and the potential of TUDCA in the treatment of keloids.
Zebrafish and Medaka: Important Animal Models for Human Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Wang Jing , Cao Hong
Published: October 2021

Animal models of human neurodegenerative disease have been investigated for several decades. In recent years, zebrafish (Danio rerio) and medaka (Oryzias latipes) have become popular in pathogenic and therapeutic studies about human neurodegenerative diseases due to their small size, the optical clarity of embryos, their fast development, and their suitability to large-scale therapeutic screening. Following the emergence of a new generation of molecular biological technologies such as reverse and forward genetics, morpholino, transgenesis, and gene knockout, many human neurodegenerative disease models, such as Parkinson’s, Huntington’s, and Alzheimer’s, were constructed in zebrafish and medaka. These studies proved that zebrafish and medaka genes are functionally conserved in relation to their human homologues, so they exhibit similar neurodegenerative phenotypes to human beings. Therefore, fish are a suitable model for the investigation of pathologic mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases and for the large-scale screening of drugs for potential therapy. In this review, we summarize the studies in modelling human neurodegenerative diseases in zebrafish and medaka in recent years.
Understanding the Renal Fibrotic Process in Leptospirosis
Authors: Prado Luan , Barbosa Angela
Published: October 2021

Leptospirosis is a neglected infectious disease caused by pathogenic species of the genus Leptospira. The acute disease is well-described, and, although it resembles other tropical diseases, it can be diagnosed through the use of serological and molecular methods. While the chronic renal disease, carrier state, and kidney fibrosis due to Leptospira infection in humans have been the subject of discussion by researchers, the mechanisms involved in these processes are still overlooked, and relatively little is known about the establishment and maintenance of the chronic status underlying this infectious disease. In this review, we highlight recent findings regarding the cellular communication pathways involved in the renal fibrotic process, as well as the relationship between renal fibrosis due to leptospirosis and CKD/CKDu.
Visuo-Acoustic Stimulation’s Role in Synaptic Plasticity: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Tonti Emanuele , Budini Mauro , Vingolo Enzo Maria
Published: October 2021

Brain plasticity is the capacity of cerebral neurons to change, structurally and functionally, in response to experiences. This is an essential property underlying the maturation of sensory functions, learning and memory processes, and brain repair in response to the occurrence of diseases and trauma. In this field, the visual system emerges as a paradigmatic research model, both for basic research studies and for translational investigations. The auditory system remains capable of reorganizing itself in response to different auditory stimulations or sensory organ modification. Acoustic biofeedback training can be an effective way to train patients with the central scotoma, who have poor fixation stability and poor visual acuity, in order to bring fixation on an eccentrical and healthy area of the retina: a pseudofovea. This review article is focused on the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying retinal sensitivity changes and visual and auditory system plasticity.
Hepatocyte-Specific Deficiency of BAP31 Amplified Acetaminophen-Induced Hepatotoxicity via Attenuating Nrf2 Signaling Activation in Mice
Authors: Zhao Jie , Lv Xiaotong , Huo Yan , Hu Xiaodi , Li Xiaochen , Sun Shizhuo , Zhao Xin , Kong Xuewei , Xu Jialin
Published: October 2021

Liver-specific deficiency of B-cell receptor-associated protein 31 knockout mice (BAP31-LKO) and the littermates were injected with acetaminophen (APAP), markers of liver injury, and the potential molecular mechanisms were determined. In response to APAP overdose, serum aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase levels were increased in BAP31-LKO mice than in wild-type controls, accompanied by enhanced liver necrosis. APAP-induced apoptosis and mortality were increased. Hepatic glutathione was decreased (1.60 ± 0.31 μmol/g tissue in WT mice vs. 0.85 ± 0.14 μmol/g tissue in BAP31-LKO mice at 6 h, p < 0.05), along with reduced glutathione reductase activity and superoxide dismutase; while malondialdehyde was significantly induced (0.41 ± 0.03 nmol/mg tissue in WT mice vs. 0.50 ± 0.05 nmol/mg tissue in BAP31-LKO mice for 6 h, p < 0.05). JNK signaling activation and APAP-induced hepatic inflammation were increased in BAP31-LKO mice. The mechanism research revealed that BAP31-deficiency decreased Nrf2 mRNA stability (half-life of Nrf2 mRNA decreased from ~1.3 h to ~40 min) and miR-223 expression, led to reduced nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling activation and antioxidant genes induction. BAP31-deficiency decreased mitochondrial membrane potentials, reduced mitochondria-related genes expression, and resulted in mitochondrial dysfunction in the liver. Conclusions: BAP31-deficiency reduced the antioxidant response and Nrf2 signaling activation via reducing Nrf2 mRNA stabilization, enhanced JNK signaling activation, hepatic inflammation, and apoptosis, amplified APAP-induced hepatotoxicity in mice.
Transcriptome Analyses Identify Potential Key microRNAs and Their Target Genes Contributing to Ovarian Reserve
Authors: Kim Yoon-Young , Kim Kwang-Soo , Kim Yong-Jin , Kim Sung-Woo , Kim Hoon , Ku Seung-Yup
Published: October 2021

Female endocrinological symptoms, such as premature ovarian inefficiency (POI) are caused by diminished ovarian reserve and chemotherapy. The etiology of POI remains unknown, but this can lead to infertility. This has accelerated the search for master regulator genes or other molecules that contribute as enhancers or silencers. The impact of regulatory microRNAs (miRNAs) on POI has gained attention; however, their regulatory function in this condition is not well known. RNA sequencing was performed at four stages, 2-(2 W), 6-(6 W), 15-(15 W), and 20-(20 W) weeks, on ovarian tissue samples and 5058 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified. Gene expression and enrichment were analyzed based on the gene ontology and KEGG databases, and their association with other proteins was assessed using the STRING database. Gene set enrichment analysis was performed to identify the key target genes. The DEGs were most highly enriched in 6 W and 15 W groups. Figla, GDF9, Nobox, and Pou51 were significantly in-creased at 2 W compared with levels at 6 W and 20 W, whereas the expression of Foxo1, Inha, and Taf4b was significantly de-creased at 20 W. Ccnd2 and Igf1 expression was maintained at similar levels in each stage. In total, 27 genes were upregulated and 26 genes interacted with miRNAs; moreover, stage-specific upregulated and downregulated interactions were demonstrated. Increased and decreased miRNAs were identified at each stage in the ovaries. The constitutively expressed genes, Ccnd2 and Igf1, were identified as the major targets of many miRNAs (p < 0.05), and Fshr and Foxo3 interacted with miRNAs, namely mmu-miR-670-3p and mmu-miR-153-3p. miR-26a-5p interacted with Piwil2, and its target genes were downregulated in the 20 W mouse ovary. In this study, we aimed to identify key miRNAs and their target genes encompassing the reproductive span of mouse ovaries using mRNA and miRNA sequencing. These results indicated that gene sets are regulated in the reproductive stage-specific manner via interaction with miRNAs. Furthermore, consistent expression of Ccnd2 and Igf1 is considered crucial for the ovarian reserve and is regulated by many interactive miRNAs.
Metabolomics Comparison of Drug-Resistant and Drug-Susceptible Pseudomonas aeruginosa Strain (Intra- and Extracellular Analysis)
Authors: Mielko Karolina Anna , Jabłoński Sławomir Jan , Pruss Łukasz , Milczewska Justyna , Sands Dorota , Łukaszewicz Marcin , Młynarz Piotr
Published: October 2021

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a common human pathogen belonging to the ESKAPE group. The multidrug resistance of bacteria is a considerable problem in treating patients and may lead to increased morbidity and mortality rate. The natural resistance in these organisms is caused by the production of specific enzymes and biofilm formation, while acquired resistance is multifactorial. Precise recognition of potential antibiotic resistance on different molecular levels is essential. Metabolomics tools may aid in the observation of the flux of low molecular weight compounds in biochemical pathways yielding additional information about drug-resistant bacteria. In this study, the metabolisms of two P. aeruginosa strains were compared—antibiotic susceptible vs. resistant. Analysis was performed on both intra- and extracellular metabolites. The 1H NMR method was used together with multivariate and univariate data analysis, additionally analysis of the metabolic pathways with the FELLA package was performed. The results revealed the differences in P. aeruginosa metabolism of drug-resistant and drug-susceptible strains and provided direct molecular information about P. aeruginosa response for different types of antibiotics. The most significant differences were found in the turnover of amino acids. This study can be a valuable source of information to complement research on drug resistance in P. aeruginosa.
How Many Participants Are Required for Validation of Automated Vehicle Interfaces in User Studies?
Authors: Forster Yannick , Naujoks Frederik , Keinath Andreas
Published: October 2021

Empirical validation and verification procedures require the sophisticated development of research methodology. Therefore, researchers and practitioners in human–machine interaction and the automotive domain have developed standardized test protocols for user studies. These protocols are used to evaluate human–machine interfaces (HMI) for driver distraction or automated driving. A system or HMI is validated in regard to certain criteria that it can either pass or fail. One important aspect is the number of participants to include in the study and the respective number of potential failures concerning the pass/fail criteria of the test protocol. By applying binomial tests, the present work provides recommendations on how many participants should be included in a user study. It sheds light on the degree to which inferences from a sample with specific pass/fail ratios to a population is permitted. The calculations take into account different sample sizes and different numbers of observations within a sample that fail the criterion of interest. The analyses show that required sample sizes increase to high numbers with a rising degree of controllability that is assumed for a population. The required sample sizes for a specific controllability verification (e.g., 85%) also increase if there are observed cases of fails in regard to the safety criteria. In conclusion, the present work outlines potential sample sizes and valid inferences about populations and the number of observed failures in a user study.
A Prospective Study of CPAP Therapy in Relation to Cardiovascular Outcome in a Cohort of Romanian Obstructive Sleep Apnea Patients
Authors: Chetan Ioana Maria , Maierean Anca Diana , Domokos Gergely Bianca , Cabau Georgiana , Tomoaia Raluca , Chis Ana Florica , Albu Adriana , Stoia Mirela Anca , Vesa Stefan Cristian , Blendea Dan , Todea Doina Adina
Published: October 2021

Background: Despite efforts at treatment, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) remains a major health problem, especially with increasing evidence showing an association with cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. The treatment of choice for OSA patients is Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP), which has been proven in randomized controlled trials to be an effective therapy for this condition. The impact of CPAP on the cardiovascular pathology associated with OSA remains, however, unclear. Although the effect of CPAP has been previously studied in relation to cardiovascular outcome, follow-up of the treatment impact on cardiovascular risk factors at one year of therapy is lacking in a Romanian population. Thus, we aimed to evaluate the one-year effect of CPAP therapy on lipid profile, inflammatory state, blood pressure and cardiac function, assessed by echocardiography, on a cohort of Romanian OSA patients. Methods: We enrolled 163 participants and recorded their baseline demographic and clinical characteristics with a follow-up after 12 months. Inflammatory and cardiovascular risk factors were assessed at baseline and follow up. Results: Our results show that CPAP therapy leads to attenuation of cardiovascular risk factors including echocardiographic parameters, while having no effect on inflammatory markers. Conclusion: Treatment of OSA with CPAP proved to have beneficial effects on some of the cardiovascular risk factors while others remained unchanged, raising new questions for research into the treatment and management of OSA patients.
Educational philosophy of Confucius
Authors: Xu Jiang
Published: October 2021

The humanistic spirit, values and philosophical thinking of Confucian educational philosophy is the philosophical thinking of man as a person and the basis of modern Chinese national cultural identity and traditional culture. It stretches for a long time, which not only plays an irreplaceable role in the formation, reproduction, reunification and stability of the Chinese nation, but also inspires the development of modern society, spreads abroad and is gradually recognized and accepted by world culture, which has a great impact on human civilization.
“Served the Fatherland, worked, started a family, built a house...” The fate of the front-line poet Alexei Pakhomov
Authors: Lazarev S.E.
Published: October 2021

The article is dedicated to the Oryol front-line poet Alexei Vasilyevich Pakhomov (1924–1998), an active participant in the Battle of Leningrad. In the center of all his work are themes of war, historical memory, genuine courage. The poet's word sounds harsh and truthful, it has been suffered through all the years of the soldier's stay at the front. That is why, when you read these poems, you empathize with the author, you go on the attack with him, you grieve for the dead, you rejoice at your own news from home. Meanwhile, the poetry of A.V. Pakhomov and his life are not yet limited to military themes, and they are fraught with a lot of unusual things.
Comparison of the effect of Laser Therapy and Therapeutic Ultrasound in the Management of Chronic Osteoarthritic Knee Pain: A Randomised Controlled Trail
Authors: Hanif Shmaila , Salim A R , Lamina Sikiru , Isa Usman L
Published: October 2021

Objective: This randomized controlled clinical trial was designed to evaluate and compare the therapeutic efficacy of Low Laser Therapy (LLLT) and Therapeutic Ultrasound (TUS) in the symptomatic management of knee osteoarthritis.Methods: Twenty two subjects with chronic osteoarthritis of the knee were recruited, aged-matched and grouped into 3 (control, LLLT & TUS) groups. The control group received 18 sessions of standardized protocol care of exercise therapy (low intensity for 15 minutes and 3 times per week for 6 weeks). The LLLT and TUS groups, in addition to the standardized exercise therapy protocol received 18 LLLT (Laser class 3b, frequency of 5KHz, wave length of 810nm) treatments for 10 minutes and 18 TUS sessions (continuous, intensity: 0.5W/cm2, frequency: 1MHz) for 12 minutes respectively. Visual analogue scale (VAS) was used to measure knee pain and knee joint range of motion (ROM) was also assessed. Data was analyzed using ANOVA test to determine groups' significant difference.Results: Findings of the study revealed no significant contribution of LLLT and TUS over control (exercise) in VAS and ROM at p< 0.05.Conclusions: The study affirms and concluded that exercise therapy should form the basis and bulk adjunct physical therapy in the management of osteoarthritis over Laser therapy and TUS.
Impactos dendrométricos e econômicos de um povoamento de Pinus elliottii submetidos a produção de resina
Authors: Lima Bruno de Almeida , Nicoletti Marcos Felipe , Stepka Thiago Floriani , Da Silva Maycon Thuan Saturnino , Soares Philipe Ricardo Casemiro
Published: October 2021

O trabalho tem como objetivo verificar a viabilidade econômica da técnica de resinagem e caracterização dendrométrica do diâmetro, altura e volume em povoamento de Pinus elliottii Eng. var elliottii para duas densidades populacionais. Os dados foram coletados num povoamento de Pinus elliottii Eng. var elliottii com área total de 4 hectares, situado no município de Balneário Pinhal, no estado do Rio Grande do Sul. Os 4 hectares foram divididos em duas áreas igualitárias, de acordo com a densidade populacional e as intervenções silviculturais. A técnica de análise de tronco completa (ANATRO) foi utilizada para reconstituição do crescimento e realização de projeções futuras em 30 árvores representativas de cada área. Para isso, coletou-se seis discos por árvore, nas alturas absolutas de 0,1 e 1,3 m e também nas alturas relativas de 25%, 50%, 75% da altura total da árvore (ht) e 100% na altura comercial (diâmetro igual a 8 cm). Para a modelagem de crescimento da área 1 e 2 das variáveis dendrométricas (diâmetro, altura e volume) foi utilizado o modelo de Chapman – Richards. Para estimar o volume e diâmetro de secção foi usado o modelo de afilamento Schöepfer. Para análise econômica foram determiandos 6 cenários e utilizados os métodos VPL, TIR e Razão B/C. Há uma queda na curva de crescimento das árvores resinadas da área 1 e 2 a partir da idade 11. O processo de resinagem provocou redução nas variáveis dentrométricas em comparação com árvores não resinadas. Os cenários com técnica de resinagem obtiveram lucros superiores.
Impact of Previous Tunneled Vascular Catheters and their Location on Upper Limb Arteriovenous Fistula Function
Authors: Diep Jason , Makris Angela , De Guzman Imelda , Wong Jeffery , Aravindan Ananthakrishnapuram , Nandakoban Hareeshan , Narayanan Govind
Published: October 2021

Key Points

Previous TVC use was associated with poorer AVF function at 6 and 12 months, compared with no prior TVC use.

The presence of an ipsilateral TVC was associated with lower successful AVF use at 6 months, compared with contralateral TVC.

Previous TVC use was associated with higher rate of assisted maturation, compared with no prior TVC use.

Background

Long-term arteriovenous fistula (AVF) survival has been shown to be adversely affected by the presence of previous tunneled vascular catheters (TVC). We analyzed the effect of previous TVCs and their location (ipsilateral versus contralateral) on the successful function of upper-limb AVFs in the first 12 months after creation.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed clinical data on patients’ first upper-limb AVFs, created between January 2013 and December 2017. We analyzed the rates of successful AVF function (successful cannulation using two needles for ≥50% sessions over a 2-week period) at 6 and 12 months after creation, time to AVF maturation, and rates of assisted maturation.

Results

In total, 287 patients with first AVFs were identified, of which 142 patients had a previous TVC (102 contralateral, 40 ipsilateral) and 145 had no previous TVC. The no TVC group had higher rates of AVF function at both 6 months (69% versus 54%, OR, 1.84; 95% CI, 1.00 to 3.39, P=0.05) and 12 months (84% versus 64%, OR, 3.10; 95% CI, 1.53 to 6.26, P=0.002) compared with the TVC group. The contralateral TVC group had higher rates of AVF function at 6 months (60% versus 40%, OR, 2.21; 95% CI, 1.01 to 4.88, P=0.05), but not at 12 months (66% versus 58%, OR, 1.42; 95% CI, 0.62 to 3.25, P=0.40) compared with the ipsilateral TVC group. The median time to AVF maturation in the contralateral and ipsilateral TVC groups were 121.5 and 146 days respectively (P=0.07). Assisted maturation rates were lower in no TVC group compared with the TVC group (12% versus 28%, P=0.007), but similar between the contralateral and ipsilateral TVC groups (29% versus 26%, P=0.74).

Conclusions

Previous TVC use was associated with poorer AVF function at 6 and 12 months, with a higher rate of assisted maturation. The presence of an ipsilateral TVC was associated with lower successful AVF use at 6 months, compared with contralateral TVC.
Complement Activation Fragments Are Increased in Critically Ill Pediatric Patients with Severe AKI
Authors: Stenson Erin K. , You Zhiying , Reeder Ron , Norris Jesse , Scott Halden F. , Dixon Bradley P. , Thurman Joshua M. , Frazer-Abel Ashley , Mourani Peter , Kendrick Jessica
Published: October 2021

Key Points

Multiple urine and plasma complement fragments increase as severity of AKI increases in children who are critically ill.

Complement fragments may identify patients at risk of requiring dialysis or developing major adverse kidney event outcomes.

Future studies evaluating this association in a larger cohort of children, and studying complement inhibition, are warranted.

Background

Children who are critically ill with AKI suffer from high morbidity and mortality rates, and lack treatment options. Emerging evidence implicates the role of complement activation in AKI pathogenesis, which could potentially be treated with complement inhibitors. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the association between complement activation fragments and severity of AKI in children who are critically ill.

Methods

A biorepository of samples from children who are critically ill from a prior multisite study was leveraged to identify children with stage 3 AKI and matched to patients without AKI on the basis of PELOD-2 (illness severity) scores. Specimens were analyzed for plasma and urine complement activation fragments of factor B, C3a, C4a, and sC5b-9. The primary outcomes were MAKE30 and severe AKI rates.

Results

In total, 14 patients with stage 3 AKI (five requiring RRT) were matched to 14 patients without AKI. Urine factor Ba and plasma C4a levels increased stepwise as severity of AKI increased, from no AKI to stage 3 AKI, to stage 3 AKI with RRT need. Plasma C4a levels were independently associated with increased risk of MAKE30 outcomes (OR, 3.2; IQR, 1.1–8.9), and urine Ba (OR, 1.9; IQR, 1.1–3.1), plasma Bb (OR, 2.7; IQR, 1.1–6.8), C4a (OR, 13.0; IQR, 1.6–106.6), and C3a (OR, 3.3; IQR, 1.3–8.4) were independently associated with risk of severe stage 2–3 AKI on day 3 of admission.

Conclusions

Multiple complement fragments increase as magnitude of AKI severity increases. Very high levels of urine Ba or plasma C4a may identify patients at risk for severe AKI, hemodialysis, and MAKE30 outcomes. The fragments may be useful as a functional biomarker of complement activation and may identify those patients to study complement inhibition to treat or prevent AKI in children who are critically ill. These findings suggest the need for further specific investigations of the role of complement activation in children who are critically ill and at risk of AKI.
Individual Factorial Structure of Biomechanical and Psychophysiological Indicators as a Basis for Determining the Fighting Style of Qualified Veteran Boxers
Authors: Kozin V.Yu. , Boychuk Yu.D. , Skaliy A.V. , Zelenskiy R.M. , Honcharenko V.I.
Published: October 2021

Purpose: to reveal the fighting style of veteran boxers based on the individual factor structure of psychophysiological and biomechanical indicators.
Material and methods. The study involved 42 qualified veteran boxers (aged 45-50). A biomechanical analysis of the indicators of the movement speed of various points and the values ​​of the joint angles while performing a direct blow by boxers has been used as a research method. The psychophysiological method has been used to determine the time of a simple and complex reaction under standard conditions and in various testing modes. Descriptive Statistics and Factor Analysis have been applied as methods of statistical analysis.
Results. Two main factors have been identified in the structure of the complex performance of qualified veteran boxers,. Factor 1 (55.063% of the total aggregate variance) is named "Speed". Factor 2 (44.937% of the total aggregate variance) stands for “Speed ​​Endurance”. Individual factor structure, which is characterized by the distinctive factor "Speed ​​and Coordination Endurance" by more than 80% as well as by the marked factor "Speed" by less than 30% is considered to be a particularity of the tempo style boxers. Individual factor structure, which is characterized by the intensity of the factor "Speed" by more than 80%, and by the distinctive factor "Speed ​​and Coordination Endurance" by less than 30% is considered to be typical for the playing style boxers. The individual factor structure, which is characterized by the marked factor "Speed" by more than 50%, and by the intencity of the factor "Speed ​​and Coordination Endurance" by less than 30% is seen to be peculiar to the strength style boxers.
Conclusions. It is shown that the psychophysiological features of boxers of different fighting styles are reflected in the features of the direct strike technique. The lack of speed at the beginning of the movement in tempo style boxers is supplemented and compensated by the high speed of movement. Playing style boxers are characterized by a high speed of movement at the very beginning of the strike. Strength style boxers are characterized by the gradual development of movement speed.
Key psychological factors in long distance running
Authors: Chojnicki D. , Smoleńska O. , Muszkieta R.
Published: October 2021

Purpose of the article is to identify the most important psychological factors influencing success among long-distance runners.

Material and methods. The application of an electronic diagnostic survey (interview) was used as the research method in the study. The normalized questionnaire was applied as a research technique in the paper.

Results.The analysis of the results was divided into parts, the first two of which concern the characteristics and environment of the respondents, and the remaining ones refer to the research problems formulated in the methodology section. The most numerous group of women have physical and mental trainings (32%) and the majority of men trains neither physically nor mentally (28%).

Conclusions. There are many key factors in long-distance running. However, the most important ones seem to be stubbornness, motivation, self-confidence, optimism as well as support from family and peers. Runners are considered to be people who are often physically and mentally resistant. They are often able to sacrifice a lot to achieve their goals. The path taken by long-distance runners is often incomprehensible to their surroundings that is family, peers or employers.
Correction of carbohydrate metabolism by means of physical therapy of patients with metabolic syndrome
Authors: Kalmykova Y.S. , Bismak H.V. , Perebeynos V.B. , Kalmykov S.A.
Published: October 2021

Purpose: to investigate the characteristics of carbohydrate metabolism indicators in patients with metabolic syndrome before the beginning of rehabilitation effects as well as to trace the dynamics of indicators in the process of application of our physical therapy comprehensive program. Material and methods. The survey involved 70 women with metabolic syndrome, who were divided into the main (MG) (35 women) and control (CG) (35 women) groups with the average age in the MG 31.49±0.71-year-olds, in the CG – 31,06±0,57 -year-old. In the main group, a physical therapy program was applied for patients with metabolic syndrome, which includes a hypo caloric diet with a hypolipidemic focus; therapeutic massage according to the method of P.B. Efimenko for patients alimentary-constitutional obesity; medical gymnastics using elements of sports-oriented aerobics and special physical exercises based on Pilates gymnastics using fitballs and expanders; morning hygienic gymnastics; limited walking in combination with breathing exercises, taking into account the activity of the autonomic nervous system. Result. As a result of a comprehensive and developed physical therapy program that was justified and applied for 4 months for patients with metabolic syndrome, the studied carbohydrate metabolism parameters changed significantly. Main group women showed significantly improved indicators of glycemia on empty stomach: from 8,85±1,54 to 5,98±0,81mmol / l, glycemia after eating: from 11,47±1,85 to 7,68±0,86mmol / l and reached the target levels of diabetes compensation and diagnostic criteria for the metabolic syndrome. Conclusions: physical exercises contribute to the improvement and normalization of carbohydrate metabolism. They restore adaptation to physical exertion and normalize the function of the cardiovascular system, motor activity and psychoemotional state as well.