bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Coupling and Coordinated Development of Carbon Emission Efficiency in Industrial Enterprises and the Digital Economy: Empirical Evidence from Anhui, China
Authors: Hu Fagang , Liu Hongjun , Guo Yuxia , Ding Heping , Wang Kun
Published: July 2024

To delve into the interrelationship between the green transformation of industry and the economy’s high-quality development, to promote the coordinated development of industrial carbon emission efficiency and digital economy, to expand the scope and research ideas related to economic and social sustainable development, and to provide scientific reference for the low-carbon sustainable development of regional economy, this article introduced a data-centric methodology for evaluating the collaborative advancement of both industrial enterprises’ carbon emission efficiency and the digital economy. To accurately gauge the carbon footprint of industrial enterprises, models focusing on carbon emissions as well as carbon emission intensity were employed. To enhance the precision of evaluation outcomes and mitigate biases stemming from subjective weighting factors, we employed the entropy weight method to objectively assign weights to each indicator. Furthermore, the super-efficient slack-based model (SBM) can solve the problem that the conclusions are biased, due to the different radial. Subsequently, a carbon-emission efficiency slack-based measure model, and models for coupling degree and coupling-coordination degree were formulated. Anhui, as a central province in China, is also an important province in the Yangtze River Delta integration development. Coordinated development of its carbon emission efficiency and digital economy has important implications for the sustainable economy advancements of other regions in China, and even other countries or regions in the world. Therefore, Anhui was selected to be the empirical research sample. The results showed that the comprehensive levels of these two systems followed an increasing trend, while the digital economy lagged. Their coupling degree fluctuated and reached its highest point in 2021, whereas their coupling-coordination degree increased, showing high coupling and low coordination overall. This study proposes specific countermeasures and suggestions for the relevant decision-makers.
Soiling, Adhesion, and Surface Characterization of Concentrated Solar Power Reflectors: Insights and Challenges in the MENA Region
Authors: El Baraka Ayoub , En-nadir Redouane , Basyooni-M. Kabatas Mohamed A. , Jorio Anouar , Khaldoun Asmae
Published: July 2024

Desert environments are prime locations for concentrated solar power (CSP) applications due to abundant direct normal irradiance. Despite this advantage, the accumulation and adhesion of dust on CSP mirror surfaces present significant challenges to plant efficiency. This paper comprehensively explores soiling phenomena and dust adhesion mechanisms, complemented by advanced measurement techniques tailored for CSP reflector mirrors. By elucidating the factors influencing dust accumulation and delving into the thermodynamics of self-cleaning coatings, alongside an analysis of various mirror materials, this study aims to enrich our understanding of soiling in CSP systems. This study aims to provide valuable insights that will help develop strategies to reduce dust-related efficiency losses in CSP plants, ultimately supporting the development of more reliable and sustainable solar energy solutions for the MENA region.
Irrigation Water Quality Assessment in Egyptian Arid Lands, Utilizing Irrigation Water Quality Index and Geo-Spatial Techniques
Authors: Fadl Mohamed E. , ElFadl Doaa M. Abou , Hussien Elhussieny A. Abou , Zekari Mohammedi , Shams Eltaher M. , Drosos Marios , Scopa Antonio , Megahed Hanaa A.
Published: July 2024

This study focused on assessing surface water quality in the northwest part of the Egyptian Nile Delta (El-Menoufia Governorate) and evaluated water suitability for irrigation purposes using the Irrigation Water Quality Index (IWQI), Permeability Index (PI), Wilcox, United State Salinity (USSL) diagram, and Piper trilinear diagrams categories, taking into consideration various water quality parameters. The results showed that, based on the IWQI, most of the water samples (61.8%) in the investigated area fell under the no restriction water (NR) category. Furthermore, the Wilcox diagram demonstrated that most of the investigated water samples (93.6%) are categorized as doubtful water; this shows that those samples have a higher sodium content material. According to the USSL diagram, most of the water samples (70.9%) fell into the high salinity (C) and moderate sodium (S) content (C3S2) class. According to the PI index, 8.2% of the tested water samples fell into class II (suitable for irrigation) and 91.8% fell into class III (unsuitable for irrigation). Based on the Piper trilinear, the water type is Na-Cl-HCO3. According to these results, most of the water samples require more water regulations, are categorized as doubtful water that causes plants’ augmentation sensitivity if used for irrigation, and fell into the high salinity (EC) and sodium absorption ratio (SAR) magnitude, which might have negative outcomes on soil and plant health if used for irrigation, have extensive obstacles, and are improper for irrigation. Therefore, proper management practices and treatments may be vital to mitigate the adverse effects of salinity and SAR on soil and plant health in this study area. Therefore, addressing water deficiency and quality in Egypt’s northwest Nile delta is crucial for suitable irrigation purposes.
Recycling Clay Waste from Excavation, Demolition, and Construction: Trends and Challenges
Authors: Hernández García Liliana Carolina , Monteiro Sergio Neves , Lopera Henry A. Colorado
Published: July 2024

The recycling of clay waste from construction debris highly depends on the chemical and mineralogical composition of the waste. Clays and clay minerals are known to be among marginal construction waste, representing an interesting opportunity and platform to produce other low-cost and low-carbon materials due to their possibilities for functional material design, such as adsorbents, drug delivery, catalysts and photocatalysts, and nanocomposites. The present review analyzes a wide variety of mechanisms for encapsulating organic and inorganic species between the layers of clay minerals. Through the compilation of advances in acid activation, exchange of inorganic cations, intercalation, and pillarization, new applications for clay materials are generated, paving the way to a nanometric world with functional, magnetic, adsorption, and catalytic capabilities. New trends are consolidated in the reuse of recycled clays in infrastructure projects, such as hydraulic concrete, water purification, soil fertility, pigments and paints, food packaging and storage, and ceramic appliances. It is concluded that clay waste is suitable to reuse in many industrial products and construction materials, enabling a reduction in the consumption of raw materials.
Performance and Mechanism of Co and Mn Loaded on Fe-Metal-Organic Framework Catalysts with Different Morphologies for Simultaneous Degradation of Acetone and NO by Photothermal Coupling
Authors: Li Yuanzhen , Fan Yinming , Wang Yanhong , Zhu Yinian , Zhu Zongqiang , Mo Shengpeng , Zhou Xiaobin , Zhang Yanping
Published: July 2024

VOCs can be used instead of ammonia as a reducing agent to remove NO, achieving the effect of removing VOCs and NO simultaneously. Due to the high energy consumption and low photocatalytic efficiency required for conventional thermocatalytic purification, photothermal coupled catalytic purification can integrate the advantages of photocatalysis and thermocatalysis in order to achieve the effect of pollutants being treated efficiently with a low energy consumption. In this study, samples loaded with Co and Mn catalysts were prepared using the hydrothermal method on Fe-MOF with various morphologies. The catalytic performance of each catalyst was analyzed by studying the effects of their physicochemical properties through various characterizations, including XRD, SEM, BET, XPS, H2-TPR, TEM and O2-TPD. The characterization results demonstrated that the specific surface area, pore volume, high valence Co and Mn atoms, surface adsorbed oxygen and the abundance of oxygen lattice defects in the catalysts were the most critical factors affecting the performance of the catalysts. Based on the results of the performance tests, the catalysts prepared with an octahedral-shaped Fe-MOF loaded with Co and Mn showed a better performance than those loaded with Co and Mn on a rod-shaped Fe-MOF. The conversions of acetone and NO reached 50% and 64%, respectively, at 240 °C. The results showed that the catalysts were capable of removing acetone and NO at the same time. Compared with the pure Fe-MOF without Co and Mn, the loaded catalysts showed a significantly higher ability to remove acetone and NO simultaneously under the combination of various factors. The key reaction steps for the catalytic conversion of acetone and NO on the catalyst surface were investigated according to the Mars–van Krevelen (MvK) mechanism, and a possible mechanism was proposed. This study presents a new idea for the simultaneous removal of acetone and NOx by photothermal coupling.
One Health, One Future: A Unified Approach to a Balanced Ecosystem
Authors: Sasidharan Santanu , Standley Claire J.
Published: July 2024

In the past few decades, disease spillovers between humans and wildlife have increased in both frequency and severity [...]
Impact on Aedes aegypti Mosquitoes Exposed to Honey-Impregnated Flinders Technology Associates (FTA®) Cards
Authors: Guidez Amandine , Fontaine Albin , Cannet Arnaud , Dusfour Isabelle , Girod Romain , Briolant Sébastien
Published: July 2024

Programs to control viruses transmitted by mosquitoes requires the implementation of surveillance tools. Over the past decade, Flinders Technology Associates (FTA®) cards, which preserve nucleic acids, have emerged as an innovating surveillance system for collecting arboviruses expectorated during mosquito sugar feeding. In this study, we evaluate the survival rates of two strain of Aedes aegypti (New Orleans (NO) and Cayenne (CAY)) in the laboratory after exposing to either honey-impregnated FTA® cards or untreated filter paper (UFP) card. Experimental exposure of mosquitoes to FTA® cards during sugar feeding significantly negatively impacted their survival, as compared to untreated filter paper. The median survival time was 2 days (95% confidence interval [CI] 1 day, 3 days) for mosquitoes exposed to FTA cards from strain NO and 3 days (95% CI 2 days, 3 days) for mosquitoes exposed to FTA cards from strain CAY. Mosquitoes exposed to UFP did not survive until the end of the experiment (4 days for strain NO and 7 days for strain CAY). Although this finding does not preclude the use of FTA® cards in surveillance, it is crucial to consider and incorporate this factor into study designs.
NTB-A and 2B4 Natural Killer Cell Receptors Modulate the Capacity of a Cocktail of Non-Neutralizing Antibodies and a Small CD4-Mimetic to Eliminate HIV-1-Infected Cells by Antibody-Dependent Cellular Cytotoxicity
Authors: Marchitto Lorie , Tauzin Alexandra , Benlarbi Mehdi , Beaudoin-Bussières Guillaume , Dionne Katrina , Bélanger Étienne , Chatterjee Debashree , Bourassa Catherine , Medjahed Halima , Yang Derek , Chiu Ta-Jung , Chen Hung-Ching , III Amos B. Smith , Richard Jonathan , Finzi Andrés
Published: July 2024

Natural Killer (NK) cells have the potential to eliminate HIV-1-infected cells by antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC). NK cell activation is tightly regulated by the engagement of its inhibitory and activating receptors. The activating receptor CD16 drives ADCC upon binding to the Fc portion of antibodies; NK cell activation is further sustained by the co-engagement of activating receptors NTB-A and 2B4. During HIV-1 infection, Nef and Vpu accessory proteins contribute to ADCC escape by downregulating the ligands of NTB-A and 2B4. HIV-1 also evades ADCC by keeping its envelope glycoproteins (Env) in a “closed” conformation which effectively masks epitopes recognized by non-neutralizing antibodies (nnAbs) which are abundant in the plasma of people living with HIV. To achieve this, the virus uses its accessory proteins Nef and Vpu to downregulate the CD4 receptor, which otherwise interacts with Env and exposes the epitopes recognized by nnAbs. Small CD4-mimetic compounds (CD4mc) have the capacity to expose these epitopes, thus sensitizing infected cells to ADCC. Given the central role of NK cell co-activating receptors NTB-A and 2B4 in Fc-effector functions, we studied their contribution to CD4mc-mediated ADCC. Despite the fact that their ligands are partially downregulated by HIV-1, we found that both co-activating receptors significantly contribute to CD4mc sensitization of HIV-1-infected cells to ADCC.
The Impact of SIV-Induced Immunodeficiency on SARS-CoV-2 Disease, Viral Dynamics, and Antiviral Immune Response in a Nonhuman Primate Model of Coinfection
Authors: Melton Alexandra , Rowe Lori A. , Penney Toni , Krzykwa Clara , Goff Kelly , Scheuermann Sarah E. , Melton Hunter J. , Williams Kelsey , Golden Nadia , Green Kristyn Moore , Smith Brandon , Russell-Lodrigue Kasi , Dufour Jason P. , Doyle-Meyers Lara A. , Schiro Faith , Aye Pyone P. , Lifson Jeffery D. , Beddingfield Brandon J. , Blair Robert V. , Bohm Rudolf P. , Kolls Jay K. , Rappaport Jay , Hoxie James A. , Maness Nicholas J.
Published: July 2024

The effects of immunodeficiency associated with chronic HIV infection on COVID-19 disease and viral persistence have not been directly addressed in a controlled setting. In this pilot study, we exposed two pigtail macaques (PTMs) chronically infected with SIVmac239, exhibiting from very low to no CD4 T cells across all compartments, to SARS-CoV-2. We monitored the disease progression, viral replication, and evolution, and compared these outcomes with SIV-naïve PTMs infected with SARS-CoV-2. No overt signs of COVID-19 disease were observed in either animal, and the SARS-CoV-2 viral kinetics and evolution in the SIVmac239 PTMs were indistinguishable from those in the SIV-naïve PTMs in all sampled mucosal sites. However, the single-cell RNA sequencing of bronchoalveolar lavage cells revealed an infiltration of functionally inert monocytes after SARS-CoV-2 infection. Critically, neither of the SIV-infected PTMs mounted detectable anti-SARS-CoV-2 T-cell responses nor anti-SARS-CoV-2 binding or neutralizing antibodies. Thus, HIV-induced immunodeficiency alone may not be sufficient to drive the emergence of novel viral variants but may remove the ability of infected individuals to mount adaptive immune responses against SARS-CoV-2.
Endogenous Fusarium Endophthalmitis after Bone Marrow Transplant: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Zhao Cindy S. , Wai Karen , Koo Eubee B. , Rahimy Ehsan , Mruthyunjaya Prithvi , Mahajan Vinit B. , DeBoer Charles M. T.
Published: July 2024

Purpose: We aim to present a case of disseminated fusariosis that occurred in the setting of immunosuppression and presented with bilateral endogenous endophthalmitis, along with a literature review of Fusarium endophthalmitis, highlighting management strategies. Observation: A 70-year-old male with acute myeloid leukemia who had recently undergone a bone marrow transplant noted bilateral floaters and decreased vision. He was found to have bilateral Fusarium endophthalmitis, with subsequent evidence of fungemia and fusariosis in his skin and joints. Despite aggressive local and systemic treatment, he succumbed to the disease. Endophthalmitis was initially stabilized with pars plana vitrectomy and intravitreal amphotericin and voriconazole until the patient transitioned to comfort measures. A review of 31 cases demonstrates that outcomes are poor and that the disease must be treated aggressively, often both systemically and surgically. Conclusion: This case highlights the recalcitrance of Fusarium bacteremia and Fusarium endophthalmitis.
Hydrochemical and Formation Mechanism Studies of Groundwater in Quaternary Aquifer in a Northern Plain of China: An Example of Beijing Plain
Authors: Camara Sarah Fatim , Zhou Jinjun , Zhang Yongxiang
Published: July 2024

Beijing Plain is a very active part of Beijing city regarding the socio-economic and human activities of the region. Over the past four decades, Beijing’s economic development and the continuous drought for nearly 10 years in the 2000s have negatively impacted the groundwater quantity and quality. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate the present situation of groundwater chemistry in this region to develop a comprehensive database and orientation for future research on groundwater quality evaluation. Mathematical statistics, Piper’s trilinear diagram, Gibbs plots, the ion ratio method and PHREEQC software 3.7.3 were used to analyze the groundwater hydrogeochemical characteristics and formation mechanisms of the quaternary aquifers of the Beijing Plain area. Hydrogeochemical results indicated that the groundwater is slightly alkaline, with pH values ranging from 6.76 to 8.65 and an average value of 7.92. The order of major cations in groundwater was Ca2+ > Na+ > Mg2+ > K+ with average values of 66.54 mg/L, 50.58 mg/L, 23.78 mg/L, and 1.81 mg/L, respectively, while the order of major anions was HCO3− > SO42− > Cl− with average values of 284.89 mg/L, 52.1 mg/L and 35.5 mg/L, respectively. The groundwater chemical types are Mg-Ca-Cl-HCO3, Na-Ca-HCO3, Mg-Ca-HCO3 and Mg-Na-HCO3. Research on the main influencing factors and PHREEQC hydrogeochemical inverse simulations results along the four pathways selected confirmed that rock weathering with sulfate, silicate and carbonate rock mineral dissolution and Na+, Mg2+ and Ca2+ ion reaction exchange influenced groundwater hydrogeochemical characteristics of the quaternary aquifers of the Beijing Plain area. Understanding the formation mechanisms of hydrogeochemistry in quaternary plains provides guidance for future studies and, through suggestions and case studies, facilitates decision-making by policy-makers on the sustainable management of groundwater resources.
Principles and Optimization of China’s Unconventional Water Management: From a Brand-New Perspective of Responsibility Allocation
Authors: Wang Ruifang , Ji Yingwen , Feng Chen
Published: July 2024

Unconventional water includes reclaimed water, harvested rainwater, desalinated seawater, and mine water. Unconventional water use is considered more of a “mandatory responsibility” in China. The initial allocation of unconventional water emphasizes quantity-centered responsibility allocation while the minimum utilization reflects this responsibility. The unconventional water use responsibility (UWUR) should be tailored to the characteristics of each area, moving away from a ‘more is better’ mindset. However, there is a large research gap in this field. This paper first presented six fundamental principles for unconventional water allocation. Ensuring fairness in allocation involves aligning the allocated amount with urban water usage characteristics. Hence, based on four key features, this paper integrated various socioeconomic and environmental factors to build an initial allocation model. To enhance efficiency, an optimal allocation model was constructed using the zero-sum gains–data envelopment analysis (ZSG-DEA) method. The models were then applied to Jiangsu Province, China, to verify their applicability. The results showed that the projected minimum UWUR allocation (unit: 100 million m3) for each city in 2025 is 1.482 (Nanjing), 1.501 (Wuxi), 0.919 (Xuzhou), 1.029 (Changzhou), 2.977 (Suzhou), 1.497 (Nantong), 0.818 (Lianyungang), 0.766 (Huai’an), 0.875 (Yancheng), 0.920 (Yangzhou), 0.790 (Zhenjiang), 0.858 (Taizhou), and 0.766 (Suqian). The rational and feasible results indicated that the allocation framework proposed in this paper has a certain practicability. Lastly, this paper considered the differences in unconventional water utilization conditions across 13 cities and proposed corresponding measures to improve the utilization. This paper represents a tentative exploration of unconventional water allocation in China and offers theoretical and practical insights for policy-makers to improve territorial spatial planning and sustainable water management.
Transformation and Mitigation of Tar and Related Secondary Pollutants during Sewage Sludge Pyrolysis
Authors: Lin Qingyuan , Liu Yongxiao , Jiao Yimeng , Lv Pengzhao , Liu Yanbo , Zuo Wei , Tian Yu , Zhang Jun
Published: July 2024

Sewage sludge has long been perceived as the bottleneck of wastewater treatment plants in China, restraining the healthy development of sewage treatment for decades. In recent years, pyrolysis as a promising multifunctional platform has attracted increasing interest for converting sludge into valuable resources. However, the generation and presence of pyrolysis tar, one of the key by-products during sludge pyrolysis, limit the wide application of pyrolysis product resources. The efficient and selective conversion of tar is complicated by the inherent complexity of sludge and various pollutants (e.g., N-, S-, and Cl-containing organic pollutants, heavy metals) in pyrolysis products, which may either migrate into tar or be released into the environment, complicating the in-depth treatment of tar and posing environmental risks. This review systematically examines the transformation and migration of tar and related secondary pollutants during sludge pyrolysis in order to optimize the pyrolysis process for resource recovery. We provide an overview of the research progress on tar generation, transformation, and secondary pollutants during pyrolysis; discuss potential control strategies for pollution abatement; and highlight the importance of understanding tar transformation during pyrolysis. Additionally, we offer insights into future development trends and research hotpots in this field. This review aims to deliver valuable information on the mechanism of tar formation, the conversion pathways of secondary pollutants, and corresponding control strategies, thus guiding the design and optimization of sludge pyrolysis processes to achieve higher efficiency and selectivity, with minimal environmental pollution.
A Critical Review of Emerging Technologies for Flash Flood Prediction: Examining Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Internet of Things, Cloud Computing, and Robotics Techniques
Authors: Al-Rawas Ghazi , Nikoo Mohammad Reza , Al-Wardy Malik , Etri Talal
Published: July 2024

There has been growing interest in the application of smart technologies for hazard management. However, very limited studies have reviewed the trends of such technologies in the context of flash floods. This study reviews innovative technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI)/machine learning (ML), the Internet of Things (IoT), cloud computing, and robotics used for flash flood early warnings and susceptibility predictions. Articles published between 2010 and 2023 were manually collected from scientific databases such as Google Scholar, Scopus, and Web of Science. Based on the review, AI/ML has been applied to flash flood susceptibility and early warning prediction in 64% of the published papers, followed by the IoT (19%), cloud computing (6%), and robotics (2%). Among the most common AI/ML methods used in susceptibility and early warning predictions are random forests and support vector machines. However, further optimization and emerging technologies, such as computer vision, are required to improve these technologies. AI/ML algorithms have demonstrated very accurate prediction performance, with receiver operating characteristics (ROC) and areas under the curve (AUC) greater than 0.90. However, there is a need to improve on these current models with large test datasets. Through AI/ML, IoT, and cloud computing technologies, early warnings can be disseminated to targeted communities in real time via electronic media, such as SMS and social media platforms. In spite of this, these systems have issues with internet connectivity, as well as data loss. Additionally, Al/ML used a number of topographical variables (such as slope), geological variables (such as lithology), and hydrological variables (such as stream density) to predict susceptibility, but the selection of these variables lacks a clear theoretical basis and has inconsistencies. To generate more reliable flood risk assessment maps, future studies should also consider sociodemographic, health, and housing data. Considering future climate change impacts, susceptibility or early warning studies may be projected under different climate change scenarios to help design long-term adaptation strategies.
Projections on the Spatiotemporal Bioclimatic Change over the Phytogeographical Regions of Greece by the Emberger Index
Authors: Charalampopoulos Ioannis , Droulia Fotoula , Kokkoris Ioannis P. , Dimopoulos Panayotis
Published: July 2024

Unquestionably, the rapidly changing climate and, therefore, alterations in the associated bioclimate, constitute an alarming reality with implications for daily practice and natural capital management. This research displays the present and projected bioclimate evolution over Greece’s phytogeographical regions. For this purpose, ultrahigh-resolution computation results on the spatial distribution of the Emberger index’s Q2 classes of bioclimatic characterization are analyzed and illustrated for the first time. The assessments are performed over the reference period (1970–2000) and two future time frames (2021–2040; 2041–2060) under the RCP4.5 and RCP8.5 emission scenarios. By 2060 and under the extreme RCP8.5, intense xerothermic trends are demonstrated owing to the resulting significant spatial evolution mainly of the Arid–Hot, Semi-Arid–Very Hot, Semi-Arid–Hot, and Semi-Arid–Temperate Q2 classes, respectively, over the phytogeographical regions of Kiklades (up to 29% occupation), Kriti and Karpathos (up to 30%), West Aegean Islands (up to 26%), North East (up to 56%), and North Central (up to 31%). The RCP8.5 long-term period exhibits the strongest impacts over approximately the right half of the Greek territory, with the bioclimate appearing more dry–thermal in the future. In conclusion, the Emberger index provides an in-depth view of the Greek area’s bioclimatic regime and the potential alterations due to climate change per phytogeographical region.
Dynamic Obstacle Avoidance for Mobile Robots Based on 2D Differential Euclidean Signed Distance Field Maps in Park Environment
Authors: Zhong Jingze , Zhang Mengjie , Chen Zonghai , Wang Jikai
Published: July 2024

In this paper, a novel and complete navigation system is proposed for mobile robots in a park environment, which can achieve safe and stable navigation as well as robust dynamic obstacle avoidance. The navigation system includes a global planning layer and a local planning layer. The global planner plans a series of way-points using the A* algorithm based on an offline stored occupancy grid map and sends them to the local planner. The local planner incorporates a dynamic obstacle avoidance mechanism. In contrast to existing dynamic obstacle avoidance algorithms based on trajectory tracking, we innovatively construct a two-dimensional Difference ESDF (Euclidean Signed Distance Field) map to represent obstacle motion information. The local planner outputs control actions by scoring candidate paths. A series of simulation experiments and real-world tests are conducted to verify that the navigation system can safely and robustly accomplish navigation tasks. The safety distance of the simulation experiment group with the dynamic obstacle avoidance scoring item added increased by 1.223 compared to the group without the dynamic obstacle avoidance scoring item.
Dynamic Charging Optimization Algorithm for Electric Vehicles to Mitigate Grid Power Peaks
Authors: Aoun Alain , Adda Mehdi , Ilinca Adrian , Ghandour Mazen , Ibrahim Hussein
Published: July 2024

The rapid proliferation of electric vehicles (EVs) presents both opportunities and challenges for the electrical grid. While EVs offer a promising avenue for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and dependence on fossil fuels, their uncoordinated charging behavior can strain grid infrastructure, thus creating new challenges for grid operators and EV owners equally. The uncoordinated nature of electric vehicle charging may lead to the emergence of new peak loads. Grid operators typically plan for peak demand periods and deploy resources accordingly to ensure grid stability. Uncoordinated EV charging can introduce unpredictability and variability into peak load patterns, making it more challenging for operators to manage peak loads effectively. This paper examines the implications of uncoordinated EV charging on the electric grid to address this challenge and proposes a novel dynamic optimization algorithm tailored to manage EV charging schedules efficiently, mitigating grid power peaks while ensuring user satisfaction and vehicle charging requirements. The proposed “Proof of Need” (PoN) charging algorithm aims to schedule the charging of EVs based on collected data such as the state of charge (SoC) of the EV’s battery, the charger power, the number of connected vehicles per household, the end-user’s preferences, and the local distribution substation’s capacity. The PoN algorithm calculates a priority index for each EV and coordinates the charging of all connected EVs at all times in a way that does not exceed the maximum allocated power capacity. The algorithm was tested under different scenarios, and the results offer a comparison of the charging power demand between an uncoordinated EV charging baseline scenario and the proposed coordinated charging model, proving the efficiency of our proposed algorithm, thus reducing the charging demand by 40.8% with no impact on the overall total charging time.
PROGNOSTIC SIGNIFICANCE OF CERTAIN GROWTH FACTORS AND THEIR RECEPTORS IN BLOOD SERUM OF PATIENTS WITH DIFFUSE LARGE B-CELL LYMPHOMA
Authors: Kushtova Luiza Beslanovna , Frantsiyants Elena Mikhaylovna , Bandovkina Valeriya Akhtyamovna , Kozel' Yuliya Yur'evna , Dmitrieva Viktoriya Viktorovna , Kozyuk Ol'ga Vladimirovna
Published: July 2024

The heterogeneity of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the reason for an unfavorable response to therapy in 40 % of patients. Thus, the search for prognostic markers is relevant.
Цель. Изучить содержание в сыворотке крови больных ДВКЛ некоторых факторов роста и их рецепторов для выявления прогностической значимости в течении заболевания.
The aim of the study is to examine the content of some growth factors and their receptors in the blood serum of patients with DLBCL and to identify prognostic significance during the disease progression.
Materials and methods. The ELISA method was used to determine the level of growth factors VEGF-A, VEGF-C, EGF, TGFβ1, IGF-I, IGF-II and their soluble receptors sVEGFR3, sEGFR, sTGFβR2 in the blood serum of patients with DLBCL after 4 courses of polychemotherapy, R-CHOP regimen. Thirty-two men and thirty-one women were enrolled in the study, average age 55.6 years. The parameters of healthy donors were considered the norm. STATISTICA 10.0 was used for data processing.
Results. Before treatment, VEGF-A, IGF-I, IGF-II and TGFβ1 levels in the blood serum of all patients exceeded the norm by 2.1–4.3 times; the content of soluble receptors sEGFR and sTGFβR2 was lower by 1.4 and 3 times, respectively; EGF/ sEGFR and TGFβ1/ sTGFβR2 increased by 1.8 and 6.1 times, respectively. After 4 cycles of R-CHOP VEGF-A and sEGFR levels normalized in patients with subsequent remission; IGF-I, IGF-II, EGF/sEGFR and TGFβ1/sTGFβR2 decreased by 1.6, 1.8, 1.6 and 2.7 times, respectively, compared with the parameters before treatment; sTGFβR2 increased by 2.4 times. Normalization of indicators was not observed in patients with an unfavorable outcome.
Conclusion. Minimally invasive and effective method for determining the content of certain growth factors and their receptors, in particular TGFβ1, sTGFβR2, VEGF-A, EGF, and sEGFR, in patients with DLBCL can be effective for predicting the disease progression.
EFFECT OF TOBACCO AND ELECTRONIC CIGARETTES ON HEART RATE AND CARDIOVASCULAR SYSTEM IN SMOKERS
Authors: Uryadova Galina Timofeevna , Rusetskaya Natal'ya Yur'evna
Published: July 2024

Smoking is widespread among the young working population in Russia. Moreover, e-cigarettes are very popular among smokers as an alternative to traditional ones.
The purpose of the study was to establish the effect of traditional cigarettes and modern e-cigarettes on the physiological characteristics of smokers, namely young people aged 18–21.
Materials and Methods. The study involved young people agd 18–21 with at least 1 year of smoking experience and non-smokers. The trial participants were organized into three groups: a control group (non-smokers) and two experimental groups (traditional cigarette smokers and e-cigarette smokers). The research methods included physical tests, such as a breathing test, pressure measurements at rest, at load and after smoking, and calculation of cardiovascular state parameters.
Results. During the experiment, no changes in blood pressure were observed in e-cigarette smokers.In traditional cigarette smokers, an increase in systolic blood pressure was observed at load. However, diastolic blood pressure was normal. It indicated a decrease in the distensibility of arterial vessels. An increase in heart rate was noted in both cigarette and e-cigarette smokers at load and immediately after smoking. The predominance of the sympathetic influence on the cardiovascular system was determined in all trial subjects. The obtained data indicated a violation in cardiovascular system activity in all subjects before and after exercise, and after smoking. At the same time, cardiovascular system activity deteriorated in the experimental groups after smoking. Under normal conditions and after exercise, all trial subjects showed tension in their adaptation mechanisms. After smoking in both experimental groups cardiovascular system adaptation potential was unsatisfactory.
Conclusion. An assessment of physical parameters in smokers revealed a negative impact of tobacco and e-cigarettes on the cardiovascular system, namely on heart rate, regulation of cardiovascular system activity, adaptation mechanisms, which was likely to increase with smoking history.
FUNCTIONAL FOOD PROSPECTS FOR INCREASED EXERCISE
Authors: Andriyanov Anton Igorevich , Kravchenko Elena Vladimirovna , Smirnova Galina Alekseevna , Mikhaylov Andrey Andreevich
Published: July 2024

The article analyzes Russian and foreign publications from Medline, the US National Library of Medicine, and PubMed, a biomedical and life sciences database. It is indicated that people under increased physical activity can improve their diet by taking functional foods. The paper describes the impact of functional foods on the health of people whose occupation is associated with increased physical activity. Functional foods are supposed to reduce fatigue and restore physical performance under excessive physical exertion. Functional foods are recognized to be beneficial if included in the military nutrition. It has been proven that functional foods boost the immune system, improve stamina, adaptive processes under extreme conditions, physical and cognitive performance under combat stress.
EFFECT OF STATIC PHYSICAL ACTIVITY ON CENTRAL HEMODYNAMICS AND ARTERIAL DISTENSIBILITY IN ADOLESCENT ATHLETES INVOLVED IN SWIMMING AND CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING
Authors: Komlyagina Tamara Grigor'evna , Gul'tyaeva Valentina Vladimirovna , Zinchenko Margarita Ivanovna , Uryumtsev Dmitriy Yur'evich , Bryzgalova Ekaterina Alekseevna , Mel'nikov Vladimir Nikolaevich
Published: July 2024

The purpose of the paper is to compare arterial distensibility in endurance sports atheletes (track and field athletes and swimmers), in whom adaptation to muscle activity is formed in interaction with various environmental factors.
Materials and methods. Qualified athletes (adolescents aged 13–17) performed a 5-minute isometric handgrip exercise, corresponding to 20 % of the maximum compression force. The authors assessed athletes’ hemodynamics, arterial elasticity and cardiac parameters using the SphygmoCor technology.
Results. At rest, swimmers demonstrated increased systolic blood pressure, lower values of heart rate, augmentation index and relative systole duration. Immediately after load, swimmers showed an increase in blood pressure, augmentation pressure, and left ventricular contractility as a consequence of sympathoadrenal system activation during exercise. In skiers the answers were reduced. After 20-minute recovery, diastolic pressure and augmentation index in swimmers dropped below the baseline. It was probably due to the vasodilatory effect of acidic metabolic products washed out after exercise from isometrically contracted ischemic forearm muscles.
Conclusion. The characteristic aspects of aquatic training influence background hemodynamic parameters, arterial distensibility and responsiveness to local isometric load.
SYNAPTIC MECHANISMS OF EPILEPSY: CONTEMPORARY VIEW
Authors: Mukhamedzyanov Ramil' Davletzyanovich , Martynov Aleksandr Vladimirovich
Published: July 2024

The purpose of the paper is to analyze possible mechanisms of ictal activity at the synaptic level in epilepsy.
Materials and Methods. The search for literature sources was carried out in Pubmed, CyberLeninka, and Google Scholar.
Results. The diversity of pathophysiological mechanisms of epilepsy makes it difficult to treat approximately one third of patients, whose ictal activity is not suppressed by traditional pharmacological agents.
The increased glutamate effect may be a consequence of its increased concentration in the intercellular space due to impaired reuptake caused by dysfunction of the EAATs transporters. Excitatory influences can also be enhanced by reduced connexin 43 (Cx43) expression in the synaptic cleft and downregulation of Kir4.1 inward rectifying potassium channel, which increases the extracellular concentration of K+ and glutamate causing neuron hyperexcitability.
Disturbances in neuronal, glial or neuronal-glial interactions have a similar effect. This is caused by malfunctioning of ionotropic or metabotropic receptors due to abnormal expression of astrocytic glutamate transporters and/or malfunction of neuronal or astrocytic enzymes.
One of the proteins involved in epileptogenesis is aquaporin (AQP4). Altered AQP4 expression potentially affects potassium reuptake by Kir 4.1 and glutamate reuptake and reduces glutamate transporter EAAT2 expression. AQP4 can also interact with glutamate receptor mGluR5.
Decreased GABAergic signaling may result from decreased numbers of GABAergic neurons in glial diseases and tumors. Besides, due to a decrease in plasmalemmal expression of the chloride cotransporter KCC2 and an increase in the expression of NKCC1 (Na-K-2Cl cotransporter), the intracellular concentration of CI– ions increases. As a result, GABA performs a depolarizing, excitatory role.
Conclusion. The pathophysiological mechanisms of epilepsy may become a target in the development of new drugs with anticonvulsant effects.
PSYCHOPATHOLOGY OF EMOTIONAL SPHERE IN PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC CEREBRAL ISCHEMIA AND OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA
Authors: Punina Anna Aleksandrovna , Gribova Natal'ya Pavlovna
Published: July 2024

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most common sleep disorder globally. OSA affects 2–6 % of the adult population and 15–26 % of those aged over 70. The main daytime OSA symptoms are daytime sleepiness, decreased mood and concentration. Patients with chronic cerebral ischemia (CCI) often have the same complaints. Although such symptoms characterize emotional and affective disorders, the patients are usually treated by neurologists.
The purpose of the study is to identify the characteristics of emotional and affective disorders in patients with chronic cerebral ischemia and obstructive sleep apnea.
Materials and Methods. The study involved 45 patients aged 50–78 with CCI, type 1–2. Patients were examined for OSA and underwent cardiorespiratory monitoring. The psychoemotional status of individuals with CCI and OSA was assessed according to HADS, SHAPS, and ESS. Statistical analysis of cardiorespiratory monitoring parameters determined the critical level of average night saturation, at which depressive symptoms are detected.
Results. It was found that patients with severe OSA had more severe depressive symptoms and anhedonia, but lower anxiety levels compared with CCI patients without severe OSA. The authors determined critical levels of mean night saturation for development of depression (SpO2avrg<89 %) and clinically significant depression (SpO2avg<87 %).
Conclusion. Depression is proved to be the most common emotional disorder in patients with CCI and concomitant OSA. The authors determined critical levels of average night saturation for depressive disorders in patients with CCI type 1–2.
FUNCTIONAL CHANGES IN THE HEPATOBILIARY SYSTEM IN PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC CORONARY SYNDROME DURING ANTIFUNGAL THERAPY
Authors: Ermolaeva Irina Yur'evna , Razin Vladimir Aleksandrovich , Nesterov Aleksey Sergeevich
Published: July 2024

Modern medicine is faced with the global challenge of multimorbidity. It is a combination of various visceral diseases, which affect the development and manifestation of the underlying disease. In elderly patients, pathologies are often combined with cardiovascular diseases, such as coronary artery disease.
Coronary artery disease is usually treated with several drugs or their combinations, such as antianginal, antithrombotic, lipid-lowering, and cardiac metabolic drugs. However, these drugs are metabolized in the liver and may have a direct effect on it. Besides, combined treatment of two pathologies has a pronounced negative effect on the liver.
The purpose of the study was to examine functional changes in the liver while treating patients with onychomycosis and coronary artery disease.
Materials and Methods. The study involved 68 people who consulted a dermatologist due to toenail changes. All patients were divided into 2 groups: patients with stable coronary artery disease (20 middle-aged and 14 elderly ones) and patients without coronary artery disease (24 middle-aged and 10 elderly ones). in both groups underwent systemic antifungal therapy (terbinafine, 250 mg once a day). Patients with stable coronary artery disease underwent the following therapy: antiplatelet agent (acetylsalicylic acid), HMG-CoA inhibitor (atorvastatin, 40 mg), beta-blocker (82 % of patients, bisoprolol) and ACE inhibitor (enalapril or lisinopril).
The effectiveness of therapy was assessed according to the dynamics of clinical manifestations and the results of mycological nail tests. Control microscopic tests of the material from the nails were carried out three times after clinical recovery with a 3-month interval.
Conclusion. When treated with antifungal drugs, patients demonstrated elevated liver enzymes. This is because the hepatobiliary system, which is already under high stress during the coronary artery disease treatment, also processes antifungal drugs. Therefore, it is necessary to take into account liver state when prescribing antifungal drugs.
It is important to develop an algorithm for onychomycosis diagnosis and treatment in patients with coronary artery disease in order to prevent polypharmacy and impaired liver function.
CHARACTERISTICS OF DYSPEPTIC SYNDROME IN HEMODIALYSIS PATIENTS
Authors: Sosnina Valentina Sergeevna , Simonova Zhanna Georgievna
Published: July 2024

The goal of the paper is to study characteristics of dyspeptic syndrome in hemodialysis patients receiving renal replacement therapy.
Materials and Methods. During an open clinical trial, we formed a group of hemodialysis patients (n=50) with end-stage chronic kidney disease (CKD C5). All patients were assessed for the clinical manifestations, dyspeptic syndrome severity, and laboratory data. All patients underwent esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGDS).
Results. All 50 (100 %) patients included in the study had dyspeptic syndromes. The most common symptoms were nausea (46 %), belching (44 %), and heartburn (38 %). At the same time, 56 % of patients had high dyspepsia index. When analyzing the correlation between dyspepsia index and dialysis therapy,a direct connection was established (ρ=0.281, p=0.048). It was revealed that the dialysis therapy duration impacted the dyspepsia index. The most common pathology of the upper gastrointestinal tract was chronic gastritis, diagnosed in 84 % of patients. Chronic duodenitis was found in 50 % of patients, and gastroduodenal ulcer was observed in 6 % of patients.
Conclusion. Hemodialysis patients receiving renal replacement therapy are at risk for dyspeptic syndrome accompanying upper gastrointestinal tract organic pathology. Early detection of dyspeptic syndrome in hemodialysis patients is of great importance for the timely diagnostic and corrective therapeutic measures.
PURULENT-INFLAMMATORY COMPLICATIONS AND POSTOPERATIVE HERNIAS AFTER CESAREAN SECTION
Authors: Ivachev Aleksandr Semenovich , Mitroshin Aleksandr Nikolaevich , Boyarchenko Evgeniya Mikhaylovna , Ivacheva Natal'ya Andreevna
Published: July 2024

Any surgical intervention on the abdominal cavity, including caesarean section, is accompanied by several postoperative purulent-inflammatory complications, especially in patients with concomitant diseases. The most common purulent complications occur in the laparotomy area. They are suppuration of surgical wounds, necrotizing fasciitis, phlegmon and abdominal abscess.
There are different opinions on the predictors of purulent complications. The most frequently mentioned are leukocyte count, C-reactive protein, procalcitonin, ferritin, and endocervical culture. Unfortunately, peritonitis and sepsis rates have not reduced recently. Still, these complications negatively affect treatment outcome.
The paper discisses the effectiveness of drainage and lavage of the abdominal cavity during cesarean section. In this regard, preventive measures reducing the number and severity of purulent-inflammatory complications becomes relevant. First of all, this concerns intraoperative antibiotic prophylaxis, which should be carried out taking into account risk factors and the individual sensitivity of genital tract microorganisms to antimicrobial drugs. Obstetricians do not have a particular pattern to follow this technique. There is also ambiguous opinion on choosing an operative approach to reduce the number of postoperative ventral hernias. Both longitudinal and transverse laparotomies have certain advantages and disadvantages. Until now, the choice of postoperative ventral hernia repair, especially in the hypogastrium, is determined by many factors, which should be taken into account. These problems reveal the need for optimal measures aimed at reducing negative consequences of cesarean delivery.
Articles from Cyberleninka, e-Library, disserCat, ResearchGate, JSTOR, PubMed, and Google Scholar were analyzed for the study.