bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Optimization of Least-Square Harmonic Phasor Estimators in Presence of Multi-Interference and Harmonic Frequency Variance
Authors: Zhao Dongfang , Wang Fuping , Li Shisong , Zhao Wei , Chen Lei , Huang Songling , Wang Shen , Li Haitao
Published: April 2023

The wide application of power electronic devices brings an increasing amount of undesired harmonic and interharmonic tones, and accurate harmonic phasor estimation under a complex signal input is an important task for smart grid applications. In this paper, an optimization of least-square dynamic harmonic phasor estimators, considering multi-interference and harmonic frequency variance, is proposed. A comprehensive error index (CEI) composed of the fundamental-leakage-led harmonic amplitude estimation error, harmonic mutual interference, out-of-band interference, and harmonic frequency deviation is employed. The largest CEI part of least-square algorithms using three different signal decomposition models is analyzed for the first time, and variables to reduce this error component are then introduced using singular value decomposition. With the CEI and defined variables, a minimum-error estimation of harmonic phasors under various interference and harmonic frequency change is discussed. Numerical tests are performed, and the test results show that after the proposed optimization is applied to least-square algorithms, the harmonic phasor estimation errors are considerably reduced, especially for low-order harmonics. We also show the possibility of choosing desired optimal phasor filter design by balancing the measurement accuracy and data latency. For example, when the window length is set to three nominal cycles, the proposed optimization can yield both good accuracy and fast measurement speed for estimating harmonic phasors under multi-interference and harmonic frequency variance.
Comprehensive Review of Dust Properties and Their Influence on Photovoltaic Systems: Electrical, Optical, Thermal Models and Experimentation Techniques
Authors: Almukhtar Hussam , Lie Tek Tjing , Al-Shohani Wisam A. M. , Anderson Timothy , Al-Tameemi Zaid
Published: April 2023

As conventional energy sources decrease and worldwide power demand grows, the appeal of photovoltaic (PV) systems as sustainable and ecofriendly energy sources has grown. PV system installation is influenced by geographical location, orientation, and inclination angle. Despite its success, weather conditions such as dust substantially influences PV module performance. This study provides a comprehensive review of the existing literature on the impact of dust characteristics on PV systems from three distinct perspectives. Firstly, the study looks at the dust properties in different categories: optical, thermal, physical, and chemical, highlighting their significant impact on the performance of PV systems. Secondly, the research reviews various approaches and equipment used to evaluate dust’s impact on PV, emphasizing the need for reliable instruments to measure its effects accurately. Finally, the study looks at modeling and predicting the influence of dust on PV systems, considering the parameters that affect electrical, optical, and thermal behavior. The review draws attention to the need for further research into dust’s properties, including thermal conductivity and emissivity. This analysis highlights the need for further research to develop a scientific correlation to predict the thermal behavior of PV in dusty environments. This paper identifies areas for further research to develop more efficient and effective methods for analyzing this influence and improving PV efficiency and lifespan.
Energy Use Research in the Social Sciences–Introduction to a Research Topic
Authors: Kovách Imre , Megyesi Boldizsár Gergely
Published: April 2023

In our paper we analyse the scientific perception of energy use in the social sciences [...]
Integrating Hydrokinetic Energy into Hybrid Renewable Energy System: Optimal Design and Comparative Analysis
Authors: Ileberi Gbalimene Richard , Li Pu
Published: April 2023

Renewable energy resources and energy efficiency measures are effective means of curtailing CO2 emissions. Solar and wind technologies have been mostly developed to meet the energy demand of off-grid remote areas or locations without grid connections. However, it is well-known that the power generation of these resources is affected by daily fluctuations and seasonal variability. One way to mitigate such an effect is to incorporate hydrokinetic resources into the energy system, which has not been well investigated yet. Therefore, this study examines the prospects of designing a hybrid system that integrates hydrokinetic energy to electrify an off-grid area. Hydrokinetic energy generation depends on water flow velocity (WFV). We estimate WFV by a model-based approach with geographical and weather data as inputs. Together with the models of the other components (wind turbine, PV panel, battery, and diesel generator) in the micro-grid, an optimization problem is formulated with the total net present cost and the cost of energy as performance criteria. A genetic algorithm (GA) is used to solve this problem for determining an optimal system configuration. Applying our approach to a small community in Nigeria, our findings show that the flow velocity of a nearby river ranges between 0.017 and 5.12 m/s, with a mean velocity of 0.71 m/s. The resulting optimal micro-grid consists of 320 kW of PV, 120 units of 6.91 kWh batteries, 2 (27 kW) hydrokinetic turbines, an 120 kW converter, zero wind turbines, and a 100 kW diesel generator. As a result, the total energy generated will be 471,743 kWh/year, of which 12% emanates from hydrokinetic energy. The total net present cost, the cost of energy, and the capital cost are USD 1,103,668, 0.2841 USD/kWh, and USD 573,320, respectively.
Non-Intrusive Voltage-Inversion Measurement Method for Overhead Transmission Lines Based on Near-End Electric-Field Integration
Authors: Liao Wei , Yang Qing , Ke Kun , Qiu Zhenhui , Lei Yuqing , Jiao Fei
Published: April 2023

Existing electric-field integral inversion methods have limited field application conditions, and they are difficult to arrange electric-field measurement points on high-span overhead lines. This paper proposes a non-intrusive voltage measurement method for overhead transmission lines based on the near-end electric-field integration method. First, the electric-field distribution under 10 kV lines is calculated by finite element simulation software. The electric-field distribution of the plumb line and the discrete integral node below the wire are analyzed. Then, based on traditional electric-field integration, a line-voltage-inversion measurement method based on near-end electric-field integration is proposed. In addition, a voltage-monitoring system based on near-end electric-field integration is constructed. Next, the numerical integration types, the number of integration nodes, and the scale coefficient of the near-end region of the inversion algorithm are optimized with the electric-field simulation data. Finally, to verify the voltage-inversion method proposed in this paper, a test platform for overhead-line voltage is constructed using a MEMS electric-field sensor. The results indicate that the voltage-inversion error is 5.75%. The research results will provide theoretical guidance for non-intrusive voltage-inversion measurement of overhead lines.
Implementing Ecosystem Approach to Fisheries Management in the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission: Challenges and Prospects
Authors: Shen Huihui , Song Liming
Published: April 2023

The ecosystem approach to fisheries management (EAFM) is considered one of the key management approaches for addressing global resource decline and promoting the health and resilience of ecosystems. This paper explores how the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC), which manages tuna fisheries, has incorporated the ecosystem approach into its management and decision-making system. This study finds that (1) the WCPFC lacks incentives to adopt EAFM as a whole due to its management priorities on target species and some key bycatch species; (2) inadequate scientific information on associated species and the environment hinders ecosystem risk assessments, leading to delays in EAFM-related decisions; and (3) the organization has given little consideration to human factors. The authors suggest developing an EAFM vision with a clear roadmap to guide the implementation of EAFM and applying area-based management tools in cases where there is limited data and scientific information. The proposed coordination mechanism aims to address growing concerns about labor issues by involving multiple stakeholders in the development of a management measure on labor standards.
Impact of Streptococcus agalactiae Challenge on Immune Response, Antioxidant Status and Hepatorenal Indices of Nile Tilapia: The Palliative Role of Chitosan White Poplar Nanocapsule
Authors: Abdel Rahman Afaf N. , Ismail Sameh H. , Fouda Moustafa M. S. , Abdelwarith Abdelwahab A. , Younis Elsayed M. , Khalil Samah S. , El-Saber Mahmoud M. , Abdelhamid Ahmed E. , Davies Simon J. , Ibrahim Rowida E.
Published: April 2023

A new insight into the synthesis of the herbal plant (White poplar, Poplus alba) leave extract using chitosan nanocapsule was studied. The in vitro antibacterial activity of chitosan white poplar nanocapsule (CWPNC) against Streptococcus agalactiae (S. agalactiae) was determined. About 120 fish were categorized for 7 days into four groups. The first and second (CWPNC) groups were treated with 0 mg/L and 3 mg/L CWPNC in the water, respectively, without being challenged; the first group was a control. The third (S. agalactiae) and fourth (CWPNC + S. agalactiae) groups were treated with 0 and 3 mg/L CWPNC, respectively, and challenged with S. agalactiae (0.5 × 107 CFU/mL). The obtained results revealed that CWPNC had an in vitro antibacterial activity against S. agalactiae. Moreover, S. agalactiae infection caused a significant elevation (p < 0.05) in the lipid peroxidation (malondialdehyde) and hepatorenal biomarkers, as well as the lowest significant (p < 0.05) survival rate (33.33%). Moreover, a significant depletion (p < 0.05) in the level of antioxidants (catalase and superoxide dismutase) and the immune indicators (immunoglobulin, lysozyme activity, and complement 3) were the consequences of S. agalactiae infection. Treatment of the infected fish with 3 mg/L CWPNC alleviated these bad circumstances.
Numerical Identification of External Boundary Conditions for Time Fractional Parabolic Equations on Disjoint Domains
Authors: Koleva Miglena N. , Vulkov Lubin G.
Published: April 2023

We consider fractional mathematical models of fluid-porous interfaces in channel geometry. This provokes us to deal with numerical identification of the external boundary conditions for 1D and 2D time fractional parabolic problems on disjoint domains. First, we discuss the time discretization, then we decouple the full inverse problem into two Dirichlet problems at each time level. On this base, we develop decomposition techniques to obtain exact formulas for the unknown boundary conditions at point measurements. A discrete version of the analytical approach is realized on time adaptive mesh for different fractional order of the equations in each of the disjoint domains. A variety of numerical examples are discussed.
Association between the Internet Gaming Disorder and Anxiety and Depression among University Students during COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Idris Mohd Fariz , Saini Suriati Mohamed , Sharip Shalisah , Idris Nur Farahaizan , Ab Aziz Nur Fadilah
Published: April 2023

Introduction: Internet gaming is now a major concern since its overuse has had a detrimental impact on people’s well-being. This study aims to investigate the association between Internet Gaming Disorder and depression, anxiety, and stress, as well as gaming elements during the COVID-19 pandemic, among university students. Methods: The cross-sectional study involved 213 students from two different institutions who were randomly selected. The participants were required to complete three sets of online questionnaires via Google Forms. The online questionnaire consists of the Internet Gaming Disorder Scale-Short Form (IGD9-SF) and the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21). Results: The prevalence rate of IGD among university students during the COVID-19 pandemic was 9.86%. Bivariate analysis revealed biological sex (p-value = 0.011), preferred gaming platforms (p-value = <0.001), game gameplay (p-value = 0.03), history of substance use (p-value = <0.001), and stress (p-value = <0.001) to be associated with IGD. Meanwhile, binary logistic regression demonstrated that males have a higher risk of developing IGD compared with females (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 3.426, p-value 0.015, CI = 1.27–9.21). Students who used consoles as their preferred gaming platform were 13 times more likely to develop IGD in comparison to another platform (AOR = 13.031, p-value = 0.010, 95% CI = 1.87–91.02). Extensive gaming duration of more than 4 h a day showed a higher risk of developing IGD (AOR = 8.929, p-value 0.011, CI = 1.659–48.050). High-stress levels significantly increased the risk of IGD (AOR = 13.729, p-value = 0.001, 95% CI = 2.81–67.1). Conclusion: The prevalence of IGD among university students was high during the COVID-19 pandemic. Thus, interventions for reducing stress among university students should be implemented to reduce the risk of IGD.
Evaluating Species-Specific Replenishment Solution Effects on Plant Growth and Root Zone Nutrients with Hydroponic Arugula (Eruca sativa L.) and Basil (Ocimum basilicum L.)
Authors: Houston Lauren L. , Dickson Ryan W. , Bertucci Matthew B. , Roberts Trenton L.
Published: April 2023

Managing nutrients in recirculating solutions can be challenging in hydroponic production, and poor management practices can rapidly result in root zone nutrient imbalances in reduced yield. Using mass balance principles to formulate hydroponic replenishment solutions is a proposed strategy to reduce nutrient imbalances and the need to periodically replace the hydroponic solution. Objectives were to (1) formulate species-specific nutrient replenishment solutions for arugula (Eruca sativa L.) and basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) using mass balance principles and (2) evaluate the effects of using these replenishment solutions on plant growth and root zone nutrients over time. In the first experiment, arugula and basil tissues were analyzed over 42 d for macronutrient concentrations which were used to custom formulate species-specific replenishment solutions for both species. In the second experiment, nutrients were resupplied for hydroponic arugula and basil over time using either the species-specific or a standard commercial hydroponic replenishment solution. Species-specific replenishment solutions resulted in decreased solution EC and concentrations of most macronutrients over time for both species. In contrast, replenishment with the standard hydroponic solution resulted in increased solution EC and concentrations of calcium, magnesium, and sulfate and decreased nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Replenishment treatment had no effect on yield for arugula and basil; however, results suggested root zone imbalances may have still occurred eventually for both treatments and species. Species-specific replenishment solutions would be most effective in scenarios where solutions could be formulated for a specific crop, mixed using high-quality irrigation water, and where environmental conditions are controlled and stable, such as indoor farming systems. This study highlighted several practical challenges and considerations regarding the formulation of hydroponic solutions using mass balance.
Evaluation of Various Resolution DEMs in Flood Risk Assessment and Practical Rules for Flood Mapping in Data-Scarce Geospatial Areas: A Case Study in Thessaly, Greece
Authors: Xafoulis Nikolaos , Kontos Yiannis , Farsirotou Evangelia , Kotsopoulos Spyridon , Perifanos Konstantinos , Alamanis Nikolaos , Dedousis Dimitrios , Katsifarakis Konstantinos
Published: April 2023

Floods are lethal and destructive natural hazards. The Mediterranean, including Greece, has recently experienced many flood events (e.g., Medicanes Zorbas and Ianos), while climate change results in more frequent and intense flood events. Accurate flood mapping in river areas is crucial for flood risk assessment, planning mitigation measures, protecting existing infrastructure, and sustainable planning. The accuracy of results is affected by all simplifying assumptions concerning the conceptual and numerical model implemented and the quality of geospatial data used (Digital Terrain Models—DTMs). The current research investigates flood modelling sensitivity against geospatial data accuracy using the following DTM resolutions in a mountainous river sub-basin of Thessaly’s Water District (Greece): (a) open 5 m and (b) 2 m data from Hellenic Cadastre (HC) and (c) 0.05 m data from an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) topographical mission. RAS-Mapper and HEC-RAS are used for 1D (steady state) hydraulic simulation regarding a 1000-year return period. Results include flood maps and cross section-specific flow characteristics. They are analysed in a graphical flood map-based empirical fashion, whereas a statistical analysis based on the correlation matrix and a more sophisticated Machine Learning analysis based on the interpretation of nonlinear relationships between input–output variables support and particularise the conclusions in a quantifiable manner.
Evaluation of Integrative Community Therapy with Domestic Violence Survivors in Quito, Ecuador
Authors: Sabina Chiara , Perez-Figueroa Diego , Reyes Laurent , Campaña Medina Eduardo , Pereira de Souza Eluzinete , Markovits Lisa , Oña Jacho Andrea Carolina , Rojas Bohorquez Gissel Katherine
Published: April 2023

Integrative community therapy (ICT) is a methodology used in the public health arena to deal with problems facing communities such as depression, substance abuse, and stress. This approach is unique as it builds on critical pedagogy, cultural anthropology, communication, resilience, and systems theory. Additionally, creative arts therapies point to the utility of music as a therapeutic tool. This study employed ICT and a music workshop with domestic violence survivors in Quito, Ecuador, via a pre-post comparison group design. A total of 87 women completed the six-week study—49 in the intervention group and 38 in the comparison group. Measures were taken on self-esteem, general health, resilience, dating violence attitudes, and social support. Additionally, the intervention group answered open-ended questions about their experience, and some participated in a focus group (n = 21). The quantitative results indicated that there was improvement in the domains of general health, self-esteem, and social support for the intervention group compared to the comparison group. Themes from the qualitative responses indicated changes in the relationship with the aggressor, psychological and emotional changes, changes in feelings of social support, and changes for the future. The study found promising results for this approach with domestic violence survivors, possibly leading to a community-grounded, non-hierarchical, culturally-responsive intervention for this population.
The Regulatory Mechanism of Cold Plasma in Relation to Cell Activity and Its Application in Biomedical and Animal Husbandry Practices
Authors: Wu Yijiao , Yu Shiyu , Zhang Xiyin , Wang Xianzhong , Zhang Jiaojiao
Published: April 2023

As an innovative technology in biological applications, cold plasma is widely used in oral treatment, tissue regeneration, wound healing, and cancer therapy, etc., because of the adjustable composition and temperature which allow the plasma to react with bio-objects safely. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) produced by cold plasma regulate cell activity in an intensity- and time-dependent manner. A low level of ROS produced by cold plasma treatment within the appropriate intensities and times promotes proliferation of skin-related cells and increases angiogenesis, which aid in the acceleration of the wound healing process, while a high level of ROS produced by cold plasma treatment performed at a high intensity or over a long period of time inhibits the proliferation of endothelial cells, keratinocytes, fibroblasts, and cancer cells. Moreover, cold plasma can regulate stem cell proliferation by changing niche interface and producing nitric oxide directly. However, the molecular mechanism of cold plasma regulating cell activity and its potential application in the field of animal husbandry remain unclear in the literature. Therefore, this paper reviews the effects and possible regulatory mechanisms of cold plasma on the activities of endothelial cells, keratinocytes, fibroblasts, stem cells, and cancer cells to provide a theoretical basis for the application of cold plasma to skin-wound healing and cancer therapy. In addition, cold plasma exposure at a high intensity or an extended time shows excellent performances in killing various microorganisms existing in the environment or on the surface of animal food, and preparing inactivated vaccines, while cold plasma treatment within the appropriate conditions improves chicken growth and reproductive capacity. This paper introduces the potential applications of cold plasma treatment in relation to animal-breeding environments, animal health, their growth and reproduction, and animal food processing and preservation, which are all beneficial to the practice of animal husbandry and guarantee good animal food safety results.
Small-Molecule Cyclophilin Inhibitors Potently Reduce Platelet Procoagulant Activity
Authors: Van Bael Jens , Vandenbulcke Aline , Ahmed-Belkacem Abdelhakim , Guichou Jean-François , Pawlotsky Jean-Michel , Samyn Jelle , Barendrecht Arjan D. , Maas Coen , De Meyer Simon F. , Vanhoorelbeke Karen , Tersteeg Claudia
Published: April 2023

Procoagulant platelets are associated with an increased risk for thrombosis. Procoagulant platelet formation is mediated via Cyclophilin D (CypD) mediated opening of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore. Inhibiting CypD activity could therefore be an interesting approach to limiting thrombosis. In this study, we investigated the potential of two novel, non-immunosuppressive, non-peptidic small-molecule cyclophilin inhibitors (SMCypIs) to limit thrombosis in vitro, in comparison with the cyclophilin inhibitor and immunosuppressant Cyclosporin A (CsA). Both cyclophilin inhibitors significantly decreased procoagulant platelet formation upon dual-agonist stimulation, shown by a decreased phosphatidylserine (PS) exposure, as well as a reduction in the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential. Furthermore, the SMCypIs potently reduced procoagulant platelet-dependent clotting time, as well as fibrin formation under flow, comparable to CsA. No effect was observed on agonist-induced platelet activation measured by P-selectin expression, as well as CypA-mediated integrin αIIbβ3 activation. Importantly, whereas CsA increased Adenosine 5′-diphosphate (ADP)-induced platelet aggregation, this was unaffected in the presence of the SMCypIs. We here demonstrate specific cyclophilin inhibition does not affect normal platelet function, while a clear reduction in procoagulant platelets is observed. Reducing platelet procoagulant activity by inhibiting cyclophilins with SMCypIs forms a promising strategy to limit thrombosis.
Synergistic Action of MCL-1 Inhibitor with BCL-2/BCL-XL or MAPK Pathway Inhibitors Enhances Acute Myeloid Leukemia Cell Apoptosis and Differentiation
Authors: Opydo Małgorzata , Mlyczyńska Anna , Mlyczyńska Ewa , Rak Agnieszka , Kolaczkowska Elzbieta
Published: April 2023

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a hematological malignancy characterized by excessive proliferation of abnormal myeloid precursors accompanied by a differentiation block and inhibition of apoptosis. Increased expression of an anti-apoptotic MCL-1 protein was shown to be critical for the sustained survival and expansion of AML cells. Therefore, herein, we examined the pro-apoptotic and pro-differentiating effects of S63845, a specific inhibitor of MCL-1, in a single-agent treatment and in combination with BCL-2/BCL-XL inhibitor, ABT-737, in two AML cell lines: HL-60 and ML-1. Additionally, we determined whether inhibition of the MAPK pathway had an impact on the sensitivity of AML cells to S63845. To assess AML cells’ apoptosis and differentiation, in vitro studies were performed using PrestoBlue assay, Coulter electrical impedance method, flow cytometry, light microscopy and Western blot techniques. S63845 caused a concentration-dependent decrease in the viability of HL-60 and ML-1 cells and increased the percentage of apoptotic cells. Combined treatment with S63845 and ABT-737 or MAPK pathway inhibitor enhanced apoptosis but also induced differentiation of tested cells, as well as altering the expression of the MCL-1 protein. Taken together, our data provide the rationale for further studies regarding the use of MCL-1 inhibitor in combination with other pro-survival protein inhibitors.
Breath Prints for Diagnosing Asthma in Children
Authors: Sas Valentina , Cherecheș-Panța Paraschiva , Borcau Diana , Schnell Cristina-Nicoleta , Ichim Edita-Gabriela , Iacob Daniela , Coblișan Alina-Petronela , Drugan Tudor , Man Sorin-Claudiu
Published: April 2023

Electronic nose (e-nose) is a new technology applied for the identification of volatile organic compounds (VOC) in breath air. Measuring VOC in exhaled breath can adequately identify airway inflammation, especially in asthma. Its noninvasive character makes e-nose an attractive technology applicable in pediatrics. We hypothesized that an electronic nose could discriminate the breath prints of patients with asthma from controls. A cross-sectional study was conducted and included 35 pediatric patients. Eleven cases and seven controls formed the two training models (models A and B). Another nine cases and eight controls formed the external validation group. Exhaled breath samples were analyzed using Cyranose 320, Smith Detections, Pasadena, CA, USA. The discriminative ability of breath prints was investigated by principal component analysis (PCA) and canonical discriminative analysis (CDA). Cross-validation accuracy (CVA) was calculated. For the external validation step, accuracy, sensitivity and specificity were calculated. Duplicate sampling of exhaled breath was obtained for ten patients. E-nose was able to discriminate between the controls and asthmatic patient group with a CVA of 63.63% and an M-distance of 3.13 for model A and a CVA of 90% and an M-distance of 5.55 for model B in the internal validation step. In the second step of external validation, accuracy, sensitivity and specificity were 64%, 77% and 50%, respectively, for model A, and 58%, 66% and 50%, respectively, for model B. Between paired breath sample fingerprints, there were no significant differences. An electronic nose can discriminate pediatric patients with asthma from controls, but the accuracy obtained in the external validation was lower than the CVA obtained in the internal validation step.
Distinct Clinical and Prognostic Features of Myelodysplastic Syndrome in Patients from the Middle East, North Africa, and Beyond: A Systemic Review
Authors: Al-Haidose Amal , Yassin Mohamed A. , Ahmed Muna N. , Kunhipurayil Hasna H. , Al-Harbi Asrar A. , Aljaberi Musheer A. , Abbasi Saddam A. , Kordasti Shahram , Abdallah Atiyeh M.
Published: April 2023

Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) describes a group of bone marrow malignancies with variable morphologies and heterogeneous clinical features. The aim of this study was to systematically appraise the published clinical, laboratory, and pathologic characteristics and identify distinct clinical features of MDS in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. We conducted a comprehensive search of the PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library databases from 2000 to 2021 to identify population-based studies of MDS epidemiology in MENA countries. Of 1935 studies, 13 independent studies published between 2000 and 2021 representing 1306 patients with MDS in the MENA region were included. There was a median of 85 (range 20 to 243) patients per study. Seven studies were performed in Asian MENA countries (732 patients, 56%) and six in North African MENA countries (574 patients, 44%). The pooled mean age was 58.4 years (SD 13.14; 12 studies), and the male-to-female ratio was 1.4. The distribution of WHO MDS subtypes was significantly different between MENA, Western, and Far East populations (n = 978 patients, p < 0.001). More patients from MENA countries were at high/very high IPSS risk than in Western and Far East populations (730 patients, p < 0.001). There were 562 patients (62.2%) with normal karyotypes and 341 (37.8%) with abnormal karyotypes. Our findings establish that MDS is prevalent within the MENA region and is more severe than in Western populations. MDS appears to be more severe with an unfavorable prognosis in the Asian MENA population than the North African MENA population.
Left Ventricular Deformation and Rotational Mechanics in Various Pathologies—The Role of the Pattern of Abnormalities
Authors: Nemes Attila
Published: April 2023

Non-invasive assessment of myocardial mechanics using modern imaging techniques became a current topic due to the rapid developments in echocardiography and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (cMRI) [...]
Bovine Fibroblast-Derived Extracellular Matrix Promotes the Growth and Preserves the Stemness of Bovine Stromal Cells during In Vitro Expansion
Authors: Lee Kathleen , Jackson Anisha , John Nikita , Zhang Ryan , Ozhava Derya , Bhatia Mohit , Mao Yong
Published: April 2023

Cultivated meat is a fast-growing research field and an industry with great potential to overcome the limitations of traditional meat production. Cultivated meat utilizes cell culture and tissue engineering technologies to culture a vast number of cells in vitro and grow/assemble them into structures mimicking the muscle tissues of livestock animals. Stem cells with self-renewal and lineage-specific differentiation abilities have been considered one of the key cell sources for cultivated meats. However, the extensive in vitro culturing/expansion of stem cells results in a reduction in their abilities to proliferate and differentiate. Extracellular matrix (ECM) has been used as a culturing substrate to support cell expansion for cell-based therapies in regenerative medicine due to its resemblance to the native microenvironment of cells. In this study, the effect of the ECM on the expansion of bovine umbilical cord stromal cells (BUSC) in vitro was evaluated and characterized. BUSCs with multi-lineage differentiation potentials were isolated from bovine placental tissue. Decellularized ECM prepared from a confluent monolayer of bovine fibroblasts (BF) is free of cellular components but contains major ECM proteins such as fibronectin and type I collagen and ECM-associated growth factors. Expansion of BUSC on ECM for three passages (around three weeks) resulted in about 500-fold amplification, while cells were amplified less than 10-fold when cultured on standard tissue culture plates (TCP). Moreover, the presence of ECM reduced the requirement for serum in the culture medium. Importantly, the cells amplified on ECM retained their differentiation abilities better than cells cultured on TCP. The results of our study support the notion that monolayer cell-derived ECM may be a strategy to expand bovine cells in vitro effectively and efficiently.
Mechanical Properties and Constitutive Model of Calcareous Sand Strengthened by MICP
Authors: Wang Ziyu , Zhao Xiangyu , Chen Xin , Cao Peng , Cao Liang , Chen Wenjing
Published: April 2023

To improve the mechanical properties of calcareous sand, it is proposed that microbial induced calcium carbonate precipitation (MICP) technology be used. A series of solidification tests were conducted in natural seawater and freshwater environments. The standard stress path static triaxial apparatus was used to conduct shear tests on calcareous sand and solids under varying reinforcement conditions. The composite power-exponential (CPE) model is proposed to describe the stress–strain relationship curve of the solid, and the method for determining model parameters is presented. The experimental results showed that the strength of calcareous sand with solids increased with the increase in number of reinforcement times for both test environments. Owing to the high salinity of seawater, which inhibits the activity of urease in bacterial solutions, the reinforcement strength in the seawater environment was generally lower than that in the freshwater environment. The compactness had an evident effect on the strength of the added solids. With the increase in compactness, the strength of the sample also increased, but the rate of increase was reduced. The simulation results showed that the established constitutive model can accurately describe the stress–strain relationship of microbial-reinforced calcareous sand and verified the applicability of the model.
Study on the Micro-Mechanical Mechanism of Fine-Grained Marine Sediments Subjected to Shallow Gas Invasion
Authors: Wang Yehuan , Wang Yong , Wang Yanli , Chen Cheng , Kong Lingwei , Xu Mengbing
Published: April 2023

Marine sediment is an important channel for methane leakage from the earth interior to the atmosphere. The investigation of gas invasion in fine-grained marine sediments is of great theoretical and practical significance in marine science and engineering. To study the mechanical mechanisms of fine-grained marine sediments subjected to shallow gas invasion, a gas injection test with a self-developed experimental apparatus was performed, and the gas invasion behavior was investigated. The results showed that the behavior of gas invasion in fine-grained sediments can be divided into different phases; the fracturing direction β gradually changes from vertical to horizontal, and finally fractures along the roof. Based on the 2D undrained elliptical cavity model and the tensile strength of sediments, considering both tensile and shear failure modes, a discrimination criteria of gas invasion was proposed. It revealed that gas invasion gradually changes from shear failure to tensile failure, and the fracturing angle θ predicted by the criteria is consistent with the experimental phenomenon.
Clinical Uses of Inhaled Antifungals for Invasive Pulmonary Fungal Disease: Promises and Challenges
Authors: Vuong Nancy N. , Hammond Danielle , Kontoyiannis Dimitrios P.
Published: April 2023

The role of inhaled antifungals for prophylaxis and treatment of invasive fungal pneumonias remains undefined. Herein we summarize recent clinically relevant literature in high-risk groups such as neutropenic hematology patients, including those undergoing stem cell transplant, lung and other solid transplant recipients, and those with sequential mold lung infections secondary to viral pneumonias. Although there are several limitations of the available data, inhaled liposomal amphotericin B administered 12.5 mg twice weekly could be an alternative method of prophylaxis in neutropenic populations at high risk for invasive fungal pneumonia where systemic triazoles are not tolerated. In addition, inhaled amphotericin B has been commonly used as prophylaxis, pre-emptive, or targeted therapy for lung transplant recipients but is considered as a secondary alternative for other solid organ transplant recipients. Inhaled amphotericin B seems promising as prophylaxis in fungal pneumonias secondary to viral pneumonias, influenza, and SARS CoV-2. Data remain limited for inhaled amphotericin for adjunct treatment, but the utility is feasible.
The Use of Certainty in COVID-19 Reporting in Two Austrian Newspapers
Authors: Scherling Johannes , Foltz Anouschka
Published: April 2023

Over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic, in many parts of the Global North, the public has looked to the media as an important source of information about new developments and measures to combat the spread of the virus. The main measure propagated by governments in this respect was the mass vaccination program. In this context, two important concepts in the media coverage were herd immunity and vaccine efficacy, both of which had to be reevaluated over time. In this study, we looked at the discursive construction of “the science” in the discourse on herd immunity and vaccine efficacy in two Austrian broadsheet newspapers. Our corpus-based analysis showed a tendency to overuse linguistic items implying certainty in the face of a very fast-changing, and thus uncertain, situation. We also found evidence that these two Austrian media outlets no longer function as corrective of power, but have taken on the role of mediators of sanctioned government narratives. We argue that the uncritical reporting of government narratives in such a fluid situation has led to unresolved and unreflected inconsistencies in the reporting, arguably decreasing the public’s trust in the accuracy of the COVID-19 information presented in the media.
Elucidating the Potential Inhibitor against Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Associated Gene of GLUT4
Authors: Aldahish Afaf , Balaji Prasanalakshmi , Vasudevan Rajalakshimi , Kandasamy Geetha , James Jainey P. , Prabahar Kousalya
Published: April 2023

Diabetes is a chronic hyperglycemic disorder that leads to a group of metabolic diseases. This condition of chronic hyperglycemia is caused by abnormal insulin levels. The impact of hyperglycemia on the human vascular tree is the leading cause of disease and death in type 1 and type 2 diabetes. People with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) have abnormal secretion as well as the action of insulin. Type 2 (non-insulin-dependent) diabetes is caused by a combination of genetic factors associated with decreased insulin production, insulin resistance, and environmental conditions. These conditions include overeating, lack of exercise, obesity, and aging. Glucose transport limits the rate of dietary glucose used by fat and muscle. The glucose transporter GLUT4 is kept intracellular and sorted dynamically, and GLUT4 translocation or insulin-regulated vesicular traffic distributes it to the plasma membrane. Different chemical compounds have antidiabetic properties. The complexity, metabolism, digestion, and interaction of these chemical compounds make it difficult to understand and apply them to reduce chronic inflammation and thus prevent chronic disease. In this study, we have applied a virtual screening approach to screen the most suitable and drug-able chemical compounds to be used as potential drug targets against T2DM. We have found that out of 5000 chemical compounds that we have analyzed, only two are known to be more effective as per our experiments based upon molecular docking studies and virtual screening through Lipinski’s rule and ADMET properties.
Investigating Object Recognition Memory Using Sensory Enrichment with a North American River Otter (Lontra canadensis)
Authors: Wegman Jessica J. , DeLong Caroline M.
Published: April 2023

Research studies that shed light on cognitive and perceptual abilities in otters can utilize tasks that provide environmental, structural, food-based, sensory, or cognitive enrichment. The current study examined the use of the novel object recognition task, a task commonly used to study memory in non-human animals, as a form of sensory enrichment. The subject of the current study was an adult male otter that resided at the Seneca Park Zoo in Rochester, NY, USA. The stimulus pairs for this task were multisensory (3D objects and odorants). In this study, three memory intervals were investigated: 10 min, 1 h, and 24 h (each memory interval included 10 sessions). The otter spent only 15% of his time near the stimulus pairs and engaged in very few explorations, suggesting that this was not an effective form of sensory enrichment and did not provide any evidence for long-term memory. These results contrast strongly with our previous studies with otters using a two-alternative forced-choice task that provided engaging cognitive enrichment. We suggest that cognitive enrichment, including enrichment via training (and food-based enrichment), may be more effective for otters than sensory enrichment. Future research should further investigate cognitive phenomena in otters using tasks involving cognitive enrichment. These types of studies can improve enrichment practices and promote positive welfare for otters in zoos, inform conservation efforts, and grow our limited knowledge of otter perception and cognition.
Land Cover Mapping with Convolutional Neural Networks Using Sentinel-2 Images: Case Study of Rome
Authors: Cecili Giulia , De Fioravante Paolo , Dichicco Pasquale , Congedo Luca , Marchetti Marco , Munafò Michele
Published: April 2023

Land cover monitoring is crucial to understand land transformations at a global, regional and local level, and the development of innovative methodologies is necessary in order to define appropriate policies and land management practices. Deep learning techniques have recently been demonstrated as a useful method for land cover mapping through the classification of remote sensing imagery. This research aims to test and compare the predictive models created using the convolutional neural networks (CNNs) VGG16, DenseNet121 and ResNet50 on multitemporal and single-date Sentinel-2 satellite data. The most promising model was the VGG16 both with single-date and multi-temporal images, which reach an overall accuracy of 71% and which was used to produce an automatically generated EAGLE-compliant land cover map of Rome for 2019. The methodology is part of the land mapping activities of ISPRA and exploits its main products as input and support data. In this sense, it is a first attempt to develop a high-update-frequency land cover classification tool for dynamic areas to be integrated in the framework of the ISPRA monitoring activities for the Italian territory.
Phytochemicals: A Promising Alternative for the Prevention of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Koul Bhupendra , Farooq Usma , Yadav Dhananjay , Song Minseok
Published: April 2023

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurological condition that worsens with ageing and affects memory and cognitive function. Presently more than 55 million individuals are affected by AD all over the world, and it is a leading cause of death in old age. The main purpose of this paper is to review the phytochemical constituents of different plants that are used for the treatment of AD. A thorough and organized review of the existing literature was conducted, and the data under the different sections were found using a computerized bibliographic search through the use of databases such as PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Scopus, CAB Abstracts, MEDLINE, EMBASE, INMEDPLAN, NATTS, and numerous other websites. Around 360 papers were screened, and, out of that, 258 papers were selected on the basis of keywords and relevant information that needed to be included in this review. A total of 55 plants belonging to different families have been reported to possess different bioactive compounds (galantamine, curcumin, silymarin, and many more) that play a significant role in the treatment of AD. These plants possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticholinesterase, and anti-amyloid properties and are safe for consumption. This paper focuses on the taxonomic details of the plants, the mode of action of their phytochemicals, their safety, future prospects, limitations, and sustainability criteria for the effective treatment of AD.
Morphology of Penicillium rubens Biofilms Formed in Space
Authors: Hupka Megan , Kedia Raj , Schauer Rylee , Shepard Brooke , Granados-Presa María , Vande Hei Mark , Flores Pamela , Zea Luis
Published: April 2023

Fungi biofilms have been found growing on spacecraft surfaces such as windows, piping, cables, etc. The contamination of these surfaces with fungi, although undesirable, is highly difficult to avoid. While several biofilm forming species, including Penicillium rubens, have been identified in spacecraft, the effect of microgravity on fungal biofilm formation is unknown. This study sent seven material surfaces (Stainless Steel 316, Aluminum Alloy, Titanium Alloy, Carbon Fiber, Quartz, Silicone, and Nanograss) inoculated with spores of P. rubens to the International Space Station and allowed biofilms to form for 10, 15, and 20 days to understand the effects of microgravity on biofilm morphology and growth. In general, microgravity did not induce changes in the shape of biofilms, nor did it affect growth in terms of biomass, thickness, and surface area coverage. However, microgravity increased or decreased biofilm formation in some cases, and this was incubation-time- and material-dependent. Nanograss was the material with significantly less biofilm formation, both in microgravity and on Earth, and it could potentially be interfering with hyphal adhesion and/or spore germination. Additionally, a decrease in biofilm formation at 20 days, potentially due to nutrient depletion, was seen in some space and Earth samples and was material-dependent.
Addressing Current Challenges in OSL Dosimetry Using MgB4O7:Ce,Li: State of the Art, Limitations and Avenues of Research
Authors: Bossin Lily , Plokhikh Igor , Christensen Jeppe Brage , Gawryluk Dariusz Jakub , Kitagawa Yuuki , Leblans Paul , Tanabe Setsuhisa , Vandenbroucke Dirk , Yukihara Eduardo Gardenali
Published: April 2023

The objective of this work is to review and assess the potential of MgB4O7:Ce,Li to fill in the gaps where the need for a new material for optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) dosimetry has been identified. We offer a critical assessment of the operational properties of MgB4O7:Ce,Li for OSL dosimetry, as reviewed in the literature and complemented by measurements of thermoluminescence spectroscopy, sensitivity, thermal stability, lifetime of the luminescence emission, dose response at high doses (>1000 Gy), fading and bleachability. Overall, compared with Al2O3:C, for example, MgB4O7:Ce,Li shows a comparable OSL signal intensity following exposure to ionizing radiation, a higher saturation limit (ca 7000 Gy) and a shorter luminescence lifetime (31.5 ns). MgB4O7:Ce,Li is, however, not yet an optimum material for OSL dosimetry, as it exhibits anomalous fading and shallow traps. Further optimization is therefore needed, and possible avenues of investigation encompass gaining a better understanding of the roles of the synthesis route and dopants and of the nature of defects.
Influence of Laser Surface Texture on the Anti-Friction Properties of 304 Stainless Steel
Authors: Li Xiashuang , Li Guifeng , Lei Yuesui , Gao Lei , Zhang Lin , Yang Kangkang
Published: April 2023

To enhance the anti-friction properties of 304 stainless steel, friction experiments were conducted on it after laser surface texturing. The influences of laser scanning speed, repetition frequency, processing times, laser beam line spacing, and lattice spacing on the friction properties of 304 stainless steel were investigated by contrast tests under annular filling mode. The results revealed that laser texturing improved the anti-friction properties of 304 stainless steel. The friction coefficient of the sample surface decreased first and then increased with the increase in scanning speed, repetition frequency, processing times, laser beam line spacing, and lattice spacing. Based on this, process optimization found that a stainless steel surface with good anti-friction properties could be obtained when the laser power was 0.3 W, the repetition frequency was 50 kHz, the scanning speed was 80 mm/s, the laser beam line spacing was 1 μm, the lattice spacing was 200 μm, and the number of processing times was two. Finally, scanning electron microscope (SEM) characterization of wear morphology on the sample surface showed that the laser textured surface could collect debris during effective friction, which reduced the occurrence of abrasive and adhesive wear. Meanwhile, the actual contact area of the friction pair was effectively reduced, thereby reducing friction force and wear. This study provided experimental data and a theoretical basis for improving the friction properties of the 304 stainless steel surface and laid the foundation for its reliable use under friction and wear conditions.