bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interaction among Multiple Electric Vehicle Chargers: Measurements on Harmonics and Power Quality Issues
Authors: Mazza Andrea , Benedetto Giorgio , Bompard Ettore , Nobile Claudia , Pons Enrico , Tosco Paolo , Zampolli Marco , Jaboeuf Rémi
Published: October 2023

The electric vehicle (EV) market is growing rapidly due to the necessity of shifting from fossil fuel-based mobility to a more sustainable one. Smart charging paradigms (such as vehicle-to-grid (V2G), vehicle-to-building (V2B), and vehicle-to-home (V2H)) are currently under development, and the existing implementations already enable a bidirectional energy flow between the vehicles and the other systems (grid, buildings, or home appliances, respectively). With regard to grid connection, the increasingly higher penetration of electric vehicles must be carefully analyzed in terms of negative impacts on the power quality; and hence, the effects of electric vehicle charging stations (EVCSs) must be considered. In this work, the interactions of multiple electric vehicle charging stations have been studied through laboratory experiments. Two identical bidirectional DC chargers, with a rated power of 11 kW each, have been supplied by the same voltage source, and the summation phenomenon of the current harmonics of the two chargers (which leads to an amplification of their values) has been analyzed. The experiment consisted of 100 trials, which considered four different combinations of power set-points in order to identify the distribution of values and to find suitable indicators for understanding the trend of the harmonic interaction. By studying the statistical distribution of the Harmonic Summation Index, defined in the paper, the impact of the harmonic distortion caused by the simultaneous charging of multiple electric vehicles has been explored. Based on this study, it can be concluded that the harmonic contributions of the electric vehicle charging stations tend to add up with increasing degrees of similarity of the power set-points, while they tend to cancel out the more the power set-points differ among the chargers.
A Multi-Objective Collaborative Optimization Method for the Excavator Working Device to Support Energy Consumption Reduction
Authors: Lu Zhe , Lin Shuwen , Chen Jianxiong , Gu Tianqi , Xie Yu
Published: October 2023

To address the limitation of existing excavator optimization methods, which primarily focus on the force performance while neglecting energy consumption and fail to realize environmentally friendly and low-carbon designs, this paper proposes a new multi-objective collaborative optimization method for an excavator to reduce energy consumption during the working process while maintaining optimal performance. By formulating a mathematical model that quantifies the energy consumption during the working process, this paper optimizes the working conditions by analyzing the energy consumption characteristics under typical working conditions. To overcome the limitation of existing linear weighting methods in multi-objective optimization, such as imbalanced optimization quality among sub-objectives, this paper proposes a new modeling approach based on the loss degree of sub-objectives. A multi-objective collaborative optimization model for the excavator with reduced energy consumption is established, and a corresponding multi-objective collaborative optimization algorithm is developed and applied to achieve optimal solutions for sub-objectives. The optimization results demonstrate that applying the new multi-objective collaborative optimization method to the excavator achieves better optimization quality than traditional methods. It also provides a more balanced improvement in the optimization values of each sub-objective, resulting in a significant reduction in the energy consumption of the excavator during operation.
Evaluation of Model Predictions of the Unsteady Tidal Stream Resource and Turbine Fatigue Loads Relative to Multi-Point Flow Measurements at Raz Blanchard
Authors: Mullings Hannah , Draycott Samuel , Thiébot Jérôme , Guillou Sylvain , Mercier Philippe , Hardwick Jon , Mackay Ed , Thies Philipp , Stallard Tim
Published: October 2023

The next stage of development of the tidal stream industry will see a focus on the deployment of tidal turbines in arrays of increasing device numbers and rated power. Successful array development requires a thorough understanding of the resource within potential deployment sites. This is predictable in terms of flow speeds, based upon tidal constituents. However, the operating environment for the turbine is more complex than the turbine experiencing a uniform flow, with turbulence, shear and wave conditions all affecting the loading on the turbine components. This study establishes the accuracy with which several alternative modelling tools predict the resource characteristics which define unsteady loading—velocity shear, turbulence and waves—and assesses the impact of the model choice on predicted damage equivalent loads. In addition, the predictions of turbulence are compared to a higher fidelity model and the occurrence of flow speeds to a Delft3D model for currents and waves. These models have been run for a specific tidal site, the Raz Blanchard, one of the major tidal stream sites in European waters. The measured resource and predicted loading are established using data collected in a recent deployment of acoustic Doppler current profilers (ADCPs) as part of the Interreg TIGER project. The conditions are measured at three locations across the site, with transverse spacing of 145.7 m and 59.3 m between each device. Turbine fatigue loading is assessed using measurements and model predictions based on an unsteady blade element momentum model applied to near-surface and near-bed deployment positions. As well as across-site spatial variation of loading, the through life loading over a 5-year period results in an 8% difference to measured loads for a near-surface turbine, using conditions purely defined from a resource model and to within 3% when using a combination of modelled shear with measured turbulence characteristics.
A Robust Optimization Model of Aggregated Resources Considering Serving Ratio for Providing Reserve Power in the Joint Electricity Market
Authors: Cha Seong-Hyeon , Kwak Sun-Hyeok , Ko Woong
Published: October 2023

As the share of distributed generation increases, so do the opportunities for aggregators to participate in the electricity market. In particular, aggregators participating in both the day-ahead and real-time markets contribute to improving the reliability of the power system. In addition, aggregators seeking additional revenue can benefit from providing reserves in a joint electricity market environment. However, aggregated resources with uncertainty are limited because of the uncertain nature of both reserve provision and the amount of reserves they can provide. Therefore, this study proposes a robust optimization model for an aggregator to formulate a strategy for participation in the day-ahead markets and deploys energy control in the real-time operation. The serving ratio reflects the availability of the aggregator’s reserve participation. Both the deployed up/down power and renewable energy in the real-time operation are considered as uncertain parameters to reflect the uncertainty. In the case study, we analyze the profit-maximization strategy of an aggregator that owns renewable energy resources and energy-storage systems under the variation interval for uncertain parameters and the serving ratio. The bidding strategies vary by the variation interval and the serving ratio.
Catalytic Cracking of Palm Oil: Effect of Catalyst Reuse and Reaction Time of the Quality of Biofuels-like Fractions
Authors: Machado Nélio Teixeira , Mota Andréia de Andrade Mancio da , Santanna Jhuliana da Silva , Gama Valtiane de Jesus Pantoja da , Zamian José Roberto , Borges Luiz Eduardo Pizarro , Mota Silvio Alex Pereira da
Published: October 2023

This work systematically investigated the influence of catalyst reuse and reaction time on the yield and quality of organic liquid products (OLP) obtained in a cracking pilot plant at 450 °C and 1.0 atm. The distillation of OLP produced 04 (four) distilled fractions (gasoline, kerosene, and green diesel). The biofuels-like fractions are liquid mixtures with high content of hydrocarbons (alkanes, alkenes, and aromatics) with potential application as substitutes for fossil fuels in internal combustion motors. The quality of the biofuels was certified by physical-chemical analysis and FT-IR and GC-MS analysis. The experimental results showed the feasibility of applying the spent sodium carbonate twice in the catalytic cracking of vegetable oils. The physical-chemical properties (density, viscosity, acid value, saponification value, and flash point) of OLP decrease as the reaction time increases. The distillation of OLP yields 62.35% (wt.), producing green-like gasoline, kerosene, and diesel fractions rich in hydrocarbons. Therefore, biofuel-like fractions produced by distillation of OLP have a great potential for replacing partially petroleum-derived fuels.
Efficient One-Class False Data Detector Based on Deep SVDD for Smart Grids
Authors: Habbak Hany , Mahmoud Mohamed , Fouda Mostafa M. , Alsabaan Maazen , Mattar Ahmed , Salama Gouda I. , Metwally Khaled
Published: October 2023

In the smart grid, malicious consumers can hack their smart meters to report false power consumption readings to steal electricity. Developing a machine-learning based detector for identifying these readings is a challenge due to the unavailability of malicious datasets. Most of the existing works in the literature assume attacks to compute malicious data. These detectors are trained to identify these attacks, but they cannot identify new attacks, which creates a vulnerability. Very few papers in the literature tried to address this problem by investigating anomaly detectors trained solely on benign data, but they suffer from these limitations: (1) low detection accuracy and high false alarm; (2) the need for knowledge on the malicious data to compute good detection thresholds; and (3) they cannot capture the temporal correlations of the readings and do not address the class overlapping issue caused by some deceptive attacks. To address these limitations, this paper presents a deep support vector data description (DSVDD) based unsupervised detector for false data in smart grid. Time-series readings are transformed into images, and the detector is exclusively trained on benign images. Our experimental results demonstrate the superior performance of our detectors compared to existing approaches in the literature. Specifically, our proposed DSVDD-based schemes have exhibited improvements of 0.5% to 3% in terms of recall and 3% to 9% in terms of the Area Under the Curve (AUC) when compared to existing state-of-the-art detectors.
Plastic Mulch Films in Agriculture: Their Use, Environmental Problems, Recycling and Alternatives
Authors: Salama Kotaiba , Geyer Martin
Published: October 2023

Agricultural plastic mulching is an important horticultural process for increasing crop yields because it preserves soil moisture, soil temperature, and nutrients, and avoids the need for weed herbicides. However, there are risks to using plastic mulch, since residual macroplastic (MaP), microplastic (MP), and nanoplastic (NP) in fields have a significant negative impact on the environment, causing damage to soil properties, harming microorganisms in the soil, and entering the human body via the food chain. Plastic mulch is often disposed of in landfills or used in techniques like the thermal process to gain energy or recycling to generate plastic granules for the plastic industry. Pretreatments are occasionally required before recycling, such as cleaning the mulch from the soil to fit the recycling process. This review provides an overview of the quantities and negative impacts of plastic, especially plastic mulch films after use, as well as their decomposition products, on the environment, soil, and human health, and presents alternatives. The possibilities and problems of collecting and recycling films are discussed in addition to the alternatives, for example, the use of biodegradable films. Overall, agricultural advancements to reduce plastic waste in the environment by using thicker films, collection after use, and recycling in developed countries are on a good path. However, NP poses a risk, as it is still completely unclear how it affects human health. Alternatives to plastic mulch have found little acceptance so far due to the significantly higher material costs.
The Gelatin-Coated Nanostructured Lipid Carrier (NLC) Containing Salvia officinalis Extract: Optimization by Combined D-Optimal Design and Its Application to Improve the Quality Parameters of Beef Burger
Authors: Malekmohammadi Maedeh , Ghanbarzadeh Babak , Hanifian Shahram , Samadi Kafil Hossein , Gharekhani Mehdi , Falcone Pasquale M.
Published: October 2023

The current study aims to synthesize the gelatin-coated nanostructured lipid carrier (NLC) to encapsulate sage extract and use this nanoparticle to increase the quality parameters of beef burger samples. NLCs were prepared by formulation of gelatin (as surfactant and coating biopolymer), tallow oil (as solid lipid), rosemary essential oil (as liquid lipid), sage extract (as active material or encapsulant), polyglycerol ester and Tween 80 (as low-molecular emulsifier) through the high-shear homogenization–sonication method. The effects of gelatin concentrations and the solid/liquid ratio on the particle size, polydispersity index (PDI), and encapsulation efficiency (EE%) of sage extract-loaded NLCs were quantitatively investigated and optimized using a combined D-optimal design. Design expert software suggested the optimum formulation with a gelatin concentration of 0.1 g/g suspension and solid/liquid lipid ratio of 60/40 with a particle size of 100.4 nm, PDI of 0.36, and EE% 80%. The morphology, interactions, thermal properties, and crystallinity of obtained NLC formulations were investigated by TEM, FTIR, DSC, and XRD techniques. The optimum sage extract-loaded/gelatin-coated NLC showed significantly higher antioxidant activity than free extract after 30 days of storage. It also indicated a higher inhibitory effect against E. coli and P. aeruginosa than free form in MIC and MBC tests. The optimum sage extract-loaded/gelatin-coated NLC, more than free extract, increased the oxidation stability of the treated beef burger samples during 90 days of storage at 4 and −18 °C (verified by thiobarbituric acid and peroxide values tests). Incorporation of the optimum NLC to beef burgers also effectively decreased total counts of mesophilic bacteria, psychotropic bacteria, S. aureus, coliform, E. coli, molds, and yeasts of treated beef burger samples during 0, 3, and 7 days of storage in comparison to the control sample. These results suggested that the obtained sage extract-loaded NLC can be an effective preservative to extend the shelf life of beef burgers.
Effects of Maltodextrin and Gum Arabic Composition on the Physical and Antioxidant Activities of Dewaxed Stingless Bee Cerumen
Authors: Iesa Nuha Binte , Chaipoot Supakit , Phongphisutthinant Rewat , Wiriyacharee Pairote , Lim Bee Gim , Sringarm Korawan , Burgett Michael , Chuttong Bajaree
Published: October 2023

Background: Cerumen is a mixture of beeswax and plant resin made by stingless bees. It has antimicrobial and antioxidant properties and is often used in biological and therapeutic treatments. However, its adhesive characteristic makes cerumen challenging to process into powder. Methods: This study investigated the physical characteristics and antioxidant activity of the encapsulated freeze-dried dewaxed cerumen of Tetragonula laevicpes. The combination of coating materials at concentrations of 20%, 30% and 40% and carrier ratios of maltodextrin to gum arabic of 9:1, 5:5 and 3:7 were used to encapsulate dewaxed cerumen when freeze-dried; the control was maltodextrin at a concentration of 31.25%. Results: All carrier matrices showed high yields of >80% and similar powder characteristics of low moisture content, low water activity, high glass transition temperature and water dispersibility. Overall, antioxidant activities ranged from 69–80%, while the encapsulation efficiency of total phenolic content ranged from 46–68%. All carrier matrices show higher antioxidant activities than 31.25% maltodextrin, with the lowest antioxidant at 57%. Conclusions: The carrier ratio of 5:5 resulted in better physical properties and retained 68% of polyphenolic activity in powders.
Fast Nondestructive Detection Technology and Equipment for Food Quality and Safety
Authors: Guo Zhiming , Jayan Heera
Published: October 2023

Fast nondestructive detection technology in food quality and safety evaluation is a powerful support tool that fosters informatization and intelligence in the food industry, characterized by its rapid processing, convenient operation, and seamless online inspection [...]
Sensory Flavor Profile of Split Gill Mushroom (Schizophyllum commune) Extract and Its Enhancement Effect on Taste Perception in Salt Solution and Seasoned Clear Soup
Authors: Laplamool Tanwarat , Suwonsichon Suntaree , Sittiketgorn Sarisuk , Soontrunnarudrungsri Aussama
Published: October 2023

Edible mushroom has attracted increasing attention as a natural flavor enhancer. This research studied sensory flavor profiles and identified umami taste-related compounds in split gill mushroom extract (SGME) using descriptive analysis and chemical analysis, respectively. The effects of SGME on taste enhancement as perceived by trained descriptive panelists and general consumers were evaluated in salt solutions and clear chicken soups. The results showed that SGME had mushroom, bitter aromatic, dark brown, meaty, and musty flavor notes and salty and umami tastes. Glutamic acid, aspartic acids, adenosine 5′-monophosphate (5′-AMP), and guanosine 5′-monophosphate (5′-GMP) contributed to SGME’s umami taste. As perceived by trained panelists, saltiness enhancement caused by SGME in aqueous solutions occurred only at relatively low salt concentrations (0.3 and 0.5%), while its umami enhancement effect was more pronounced. When SGME was added into reduced-salt seasoned clear chicken soups, it helped to enhance both the salty and umami tastes of the soups. The 20–31.25% reduced-salt soups with 12.5% of SGME were rated as salty as (p > 0.05) the control soup with regular salt content as perceived by both trained panelists and general consumers. The results suggest that SGME could be used as a natural flavor enhancer in the development of reduced-salt foods.
Effects of Lentilactobacillus buchneri and Kazachstania bulderi on the Quality and Flavor of Guizhou Fermented Red Sour Soup
Authors: Liu Na , Li Xiuli , Hu Yue , Qin Likang , Bao Aiming , Qin Weijun , Miao Song
Published: October 2023

In this study, the effects of Lentilactobacillus buchneri (L. buchneri: CCTCC M 2023228) and Kazachstania bulderi (K. bulderi: CCTCC M 2023227) on the quality characteristics and volatile flavor substances in fermented red sour soup were explored based on natural fermentation. Compared to natural fermentation (nitrite: 5.5 mg/kg; amino acid nitrogen: 0.17 g/100 g; lycopene: 63.73 µg/mL), three fortified fermentation methods using L. buchneri, K. bulderi, and both strains together significantly reduced the concentrations of nitrite (2.62, 2.49, and 2.37 mg/kg), amino acid nitrogen (0.03 g/100 g, 0.02 g/100 g, and 0.05 g/100 g), and lycopene (26.64, 32.45, and 51.89 µg/mL). Total acid content (11.53 g/kg) and lactic acid bacteria count (285.9 ± 1.65 × 106 CFU/mL) were the elements most significantly increased by fortified fermentation with L. buchneri relative to other fermentation methods. A total of 99 volatile compounds were determined in red sour soup and could be roughly classified into alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, and esters. Fortified fermentation with two strains and fortified fermentation with K. bulderi increased the content of methyl butanoate and 3-hydroxybutan-2-one-acetoin (D). This study confirmed the effects of L. buchneri and K. bulderi on the quality and flavor of fermented red sour soup and provided a theoretical basis for the fortified fermentation of red sour soup.
Bioactive Functions of Lipids in the Milk Fat Globule Membrane: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Pan Junyu , Chen Meiqing , Li Ning , Han Rongwei , Yang Yongxin , Zheng Nan , Zhao Shengguo , Zhang Yangdong
Published: October 2023

The milk fat globule membrane (MFGM) is a complex tri-layer membrane that wraps droplets of lipids in milk. In recent years, it has attracted widespread attention due to its excellent bioactive functions and nutritional value. MFGM contains a diverse array of bioactive lipids, including cholesterol, phospholipids, and sphingolipids, which play pivotal roles in mediating the bioactivity of the MFGM. We sequentially summarize the main lipid types in the MFGM in this comprehensive review and outline the characterization methods used to employ them. In this comprehensive review, we sequentially describe the types of major lipids found in the MFGM and outline the characterization methods employed to study them. Additionally, we compare the structural disparities among glycerophospholipids, sphingolipids, and gangliosides, while introducing the formation of lipid rafts facilitated by cholesterol. The focus of this review revolves around an extensive evaluation of the current research on lipid isolates from the MFGM, as well as products containing MFGM lipids, with respect to their impact on human health. Notably, we emphasize the clinical trials encompassing a large number of participants. The summarized bioactive functions of MFGM lipids encompass the regulation of human growth and development, influence on intestinal health, inhibition of cholesterol absorption, enhancement of exercise capacity, and anticancer effects. By offering a comprehensive overview, the aim of this review is to provide valuable insights into the diverse biologically active functions exhibited by lipids in the MFGM.
Editorial for the Special Issue: “Aerogel Hybrids and Nanocomposites”
Authors: Lázár István , Menelaou Melita
Published: October 2023

Aerogel materials are porous ultralight solid materials obtained from gels, wherein a gas, commonly air, replaces the liquid component [...]
Relationship between Optimism, Self-Efficacy and Quality of Life: A Cross-Sectional Study in Elderly People with Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Wojcieszek Agata , Kurowska Anna , Majda Anna , Kołodziej Kinga , Liszka Henryk , Gądek Artur
Published: October 2023

Background: Due to the presence of numerous problems in osteoarthritis, e.g., the presence of one or more chronic diseases, reduced self-esteem and reduced ability to cope, patients must undertake readaptation activities. In such circumstances, resources that are necessary for optimal adaptation become of particular importance. This cross-sectional study aimed to assess the impact of behavioral resources, namely self-efficacy and optimism, on quality of life perception in early-old-age patients with knee osteoarthritis. Methods: An anonymous survey was conducted using recognized research tools: the Index of Severity for Knee Disease, Life Orientation Test, General Self-Efficacy Scale and World Health Organization Quality of Life BEFF. The study involved 300 people aged between 60 and 75 years old, including 150 patients diagnosed with gonarthrosis and 150 people without diagnosed joint and muscular diseases of the lower limbs. Non-parametric tests (e.g., Mann–Whitney U test, Kruskal–Wallis test, Spearman’s correlation coefficient) were used for the statistical analysis of the results, assuming a significance level of p < 0.05. Results: The level of the examined personal resources was significantly lower in the group of people with gonarthrosis (p < 0.001), among whom low self-efficacy and a tendency toward pessimism prevailed. The results in terms of the level of lower limb joints impairment among the respondents correlated significantly and negatively with self-efficacy (r = −0.239; p = 0.003) and dispositional optimism (r = −0.318; p < 0.001). A higher level of the studied psychosocial resources led to a more favorable assessment of quality of life (p < 0.001) and own health (p < 0.001). In addition, a higher sense of self-competence was associated with better quality of life in the psychological (p = 0.044), social (p < 0.001) and environmental (p < 0.001) domains, while a tendency toward optimism was associated with higher quality of life perception in the social domain (p < 0.001). Conclusions: It would seem to be reasonable to introduce a routine diagnosis, assessing the level of personal capabilities of elderly people with knee osteoarthritis, which may have a beneficial effect on their perception of their quality of life and their own health.
The Purloined Letters of Elizabeth Bishop
Authors: Nesme Axel
Published: October 2023

In this paper I propose to examine several poems by Elizabeth Bishop through the prism of the concept of letter delineated in “Lituraterre”, where Lacan explores the connection between the literal and the littoral in order to draw a key distinction between signifiers which are the semblances involved in ordinary communication, and the letter as a precipitate resulting from their breakdown. Insofar as the letter causes “writing effects that are structured around moments of vacillation of semblances” (M-H Roche), such effects may be traced in poems where Bishop focuses on how meaning is set adrift by eliding, displacing or transforming graphemes and phonemes. Her observation that “the names of seashore towns run out to sea” points to the littoral/liminal space of the poetic signifier that straddles enjoyment and meaning. I analyze Bishop’s painterly treatment of mist through the prism of Lacan’s discussion of Japanese calligraphy where the unary brush stroke, which “is the means to clear original Chaos” (E. Laurent), operates as the equivalent of the median void, often represented by fog in Chinese painting, i.e., as an avatar of the littoral that separates knowledge from enjoyment. I conclude with a reading of a poem where the semiosis of mortality hinges on the (dis-)appearance of certain phonemes, inviting us to question the literal/literary destiny of letters when they turn into Joycean litter, and prompting us to revisit Lacan’s familiar aphorism that “a letter always reaches its destination”.
The Road Ahead and Challenges of Revenue Cycle Management in Saudi Governmental Hospitals
Authors: Alradhi Zainab , Alanazi Abdullah
Published: October 2023

Healthcare providers use revenue cycle management (RCM) to track patient billing and revenue. The revenue cycle collects data from various systems and compiles it into a single RCM system connected to payers. Effective system integration improves revenue and financial stability. The aim is to assess RCM feasibility in Saudi Arabia’s governmental hospitals, examine financial management, and recommend practical implementation. In this study, healthcare leaders were interviewed face-to-face and via audio recording to collect qualitative data in response to semi-structured questions. Key informants from seven main hospitals were interviewed. Respondents understood RCM and identified internal and external challenges in hospital financial management. Government hospitals face accountability obstacles. Two of the seven surveyed hospitals operate business clinics using a fee-for-service model. The billing system is not integrated with the information system. The RCM system faces challenges such as unclear vision, lack of accountability, staff resistance, process redesign, and importance of project management. Despite these challenges, respondents still value RCM and recognize its importance in improving hospital revenue management. Effective implementation of RCM requires significant transformational processes, including vision, governance, accountability, proper training, and effective monitoring and evaluation processes. Communication should also be emphasized, and the patient’s perspective must be brought into focus. Involving all stakeholders can create direct and holistic patient benefits; therefore, bringing them on board is crucial. New approaches are required to enhance healthcare in Saudi Arabia, addressing gaps in revenue optimization and RCM. Future research should evaluate the move from government-funded to self-operated hospitals, providing a better understanding of the challenges and opportunities.
Opinion of Polish Patients with Epilepsy on Generic Medications
Authors: Swakowska Katarzyna , Religioni Urszula , Staniszewska Anna
Published: October 2023

Aim: The majority of medicines used in Poland are generic drugs and substitutions of the originals. The objective of this study was to obtain information on the current knowledge about generic medicines among Polish patients with epilepsy. Material and Methods: The conducted study was based on a self-developed questionnaire. The questionnaire consisted of 26 questions, including the questions regarding the respondents’ knowledge about generics, their previous experience, and the factors behind these choices. Results: Overall, 1220 questionnaires were analyzed. Among all patients, 66.4% reportedly had heard about generics. Of these, 61.5% of patients had used generic drugs in the past. A significant proportion of participants had never been recommended to switch to a generic medicine by their healthcare professional (23% physicians and 13.9% pharmacists). Statistically, relevant differences were observed regarding the respondents’ kind and level of education, place of residence, and net income per household. Conclusions: Significant gaps were identified in the knowledge and perceptions among patients regarding generic medicines, especially in relation to their efficacy and safety. Efforts must be directed towards increasing public awareness of generic medicines and there should also be a focus on educating patients about generic medicines.
Multiple-Perspective Data-Driven Analysis of Online Health Communities
Authors: Alnashwan Rana , O’Riordan Adrian , Sorensen Humphrey
Published: October 2023

The growth of online health communities and socially generated health-related content has the potential to provide considerable value for patients and healthcare providers alike. For example, members of the public can acquire medical knowledge and interact with others online. However, the volume of information—and the consequent ‘noise’ associated with large data volumes—can create difficulties for users. In this paper, we present a data-driven approach to better understand these data from multiple stakeholder perspectives. We utilise three techniques—sentiment analysis, content analysis, and topic analysis—to analyse user-generated medical content related to Lyme disease. We use a supervised feature-based model to identify sentiments, content analysis to identify concepts that predominate, and latent Dirichlet allocation strategy as an unsupervised generative model to identify topics represented in the discourse. We validate that applying three different analytic methods highlights differing aspects of the information different stakeholders will be interested in based on the goals of different stakeholders, expert opinion, and comparison with patient information leaflets.
The Application of Historic Building Information Modelling (HBIM) to Cultural Heritage: A Review
Authors: Lovell Lucy J. , Davies Richard J. , Hunt Dexter V. L.
Published: October 2023

Historic Building Information Modelling (HBIM) is the application of BIM, a digital modelling and information management technique, to assets of historical significance, otherwise known as Cultural Heritage (CH). The adoption of BIM for CH is justified by government mandates and acknowledgement by leading heritage institutions that there is a need to utilise digital tools for heritage management. This paper establishes the current state of HBIM implementation within CH as well as research trends to date via a review of the existing literature. Geometric modelling was found to be the topic of very early research into HBIM, with particular focus given to improving the accuracy and efficiency of modelling. Thus, methods for improving modelling were evaluated. HBIM as an information management tool is discussed including the issues encountered, such as data storage and insufficient existing tools, as well as key information requirements proposed in the literature. An evaluation of key HBIM case studies found limited evidence of the created models being used in practice and an overall lack of consideration of the information needs. It was determined that the implementation of HBIM is limited by a lack of defined information requirements, and standardisation regarding the method of implementation.
Interspecific Hybridization between Ganoderma lingzhi and G. resinaceum by PEG-Induced Double-Inactivated Protoplast Fusion
Authors: Li Jintao , Liu Linling , Xu Lin , Wang Sheng , Zhang Nan , Sun Changwei , Yan Meixia
Published: October 2023

Ganoderma lingzhi is an important medicinal fungus, and it is particularly important to select strains with high yields and active substance contents. In this study, protoplasts of G. lingzhi were thermally inactivated to destroy intracellular enzyme proteins and preserve DNA. The DNA of G. resinaceum was damaged by ultraviolet (UV) radiation, and other components of the protoplasm except DNA were preserved. Then, the protoplast was induced using polyethylene glycol (PEG) for fusion. The results showed that the optimal thermal inactivation conditions for G. lingzhi were 30 min in a 45 °C water bath, and the optimal UV inactivation conditions for G. resinaceum were 70 s of irradiation using a 20 W UV lamp at a vertical distance of 15 cm. Antagonistic tests, internal transcribed space (ITS) and mitochondrial DNA identification, intersimple sequence repeat (ISSR) molecular markers and morphology were used to distinguish the parents from the fusants. Four true fusants were obtained, and the yield was 2.5%. The fruiting body yield of the fusants was significantly higher than that of G. lingzhi, and the polysaccharide and triterpene contents of the RAD-64 fusant were significantly higher than those of G. lingzhi. The results presented in this paper show that protoplast fusion technology can effectively improve G. lingzhi varieties and support the breeding of new varieties.
Sex-Related Disparities in the Resting State Functional Connectivity of the Locus Coeruelus and Salience Network in Preclinical Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Um Yoo Hyun , Wang Sheng-Min , Kang Dong Woo , Kim Sunghwan , Lee Chang Uk , Kim Donghyeon , Choe Yeong Sim , Kim Regina E. Y. , Lee Soyoung , Lim Hyun Kook
Published: October 2023

Recent studies have demonstrated the pivotal role of locus coeruleus (LC) and salience network (SN) resting state functional connectivity (rsFC) changes in the early stage of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Moreover, sex has been a crucial point of discussion in understanding AD pathology. We aimed to demonstrate the sex-related disparities in the functional connectivity (FC) of the SN and LC in preclinical AD. A total of 89 cognitively normal patients with evidence of amyloid beta (Aβ) accumulation ([18F] flutemetamol +) were recruited in the study. A seed-to-voxel analysis was conducted to measure the LC and SN rsFC differences between sexes. In addition, sex by Aβ interactive effects on FC values were analyzed with a general linear model. There were statistically significant sex by regional standardized uptake value ratio (SUVR) interactions in the LC FC with the parietal, frontal, and occipital cortices. Moreover, there was a significant sex by global SUVR interaction in the SN FC with the temporal cortex. The findings suggest that there are differential patterns of LC FC and SN FC in males and females with preclinical AD, which interact with regional Aβ deposition.
Development of a New Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) for Measuring the Content of PACAP in Mammalian Tissue and Plasma
Authors: Obara Elisabeth Anne Adanma , Georg Birgitte , Hannibal Jens
Published: October 2023

Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) is a naturally occurring neuropeptide found in both the central and peripheral nervous systems of vertebrates. Recent studies have revealed the presence of PACAP and its corresponding receptors, namely, the pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide type I receptor (PAC1R), vasoactive intestinal peptide receptor 1 (VIPR1), and vasoactive intestinal peptide receptor 2 (VIPR2), in various structures implicated in migraine pathophysiology, including sensory trigeminal neurons. Human studies have demonstrated that when infused, PACAP can cause dilation of cranial vessels and result in delayed migraine-like attacks. In light of this, we present a novel ELISA assay that has been validated for quantifying PACAP in tissue extracts and human plasma. Using two well characterized antibodies specifically targeting PACAP, we successfully developed a sandwich ELISA assay, capable of detecting and accurately quantifying PACAP without any cross-reactivity to closely related peptides. The quantification range was between 5.2 pmol/L and 400 pmol/L. The recovery in plasma ranged from 98.2% to 100%. The increasing evidence pointing to the crucial role of PACAP in migraine pathophysiology necessitates the availability of tools capable of detecting changes in the circulatory levels of PACAP and its potential application as a reliable biomarker.
Why Are There So Few FDA-Approved Therapeutics for Wound Healing?
Authors: Chen Mei , Chang Cheng , Levian Brandon , Woodley David T. , Li Wei
Published: October 2023

Since the only and the milestone FDA approval of becaplermin gel (RegranexTM, 0.01% human recombinant PDGF-BB) as a (diabetic) wound healing therapeutic more than 25 years ago, no new therapeutic (excluding physical therapies, devices, dressings, anti-microbial agents, or other preventive treatments) for any type of wound healing has advanced to clinical applications. During the same period of time, the FDA has approved additional 250 new drugs for various human tumors, which were famously described as “wounds that do not heal”. Two similar pathological conditions have experienced such a dramatic difference in therapeutics. More surprisingly, few in the wound healing community seem to be alarmed by this mysterious deficit. As it is often said, “damaging is far easier than re-building”. In contrast to the primary duty of a cancer drug to damage a single molecule of the signaling network, a wound healing drug must be able to re-build the multi-level damages in the wound. No known single molecule alone is capable of repairing multi-cell-type and multi-pathway damages all at once. We argue that the previous single molecule-based strategy for developing wound healing therapeutics is profoundly flawed in theory. The future success of effective wound healing therapeutics requires a fundamental change in the paradigm.
Identifying MicroRNAs Suitable for Detection of Breast Cancer: A Systematic Review of Discovery Phases Studies on MicroRNA Expression Profiles
Authors: Padroni Lisa , De Marco Laura , Fiano Valentina , Milani Lorenzo , Marmiroli Giorgia , Giraudo Maria Teresa , Macciotta Alessandra , Ricceri Fulvio , Sacerdote Carlotta
Published: October 2023

The analysis of circulating tumor cells and tumor-derived materials, such as circulating tumor DNA, circulating miRNAs (cfmiRNAs), and extracellular vehicles provides crucial information in cancer research. CfmiRNAs, a group of short noncoding regulatory RNAs, have gained attention as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers. This review focuses on the discovery phases of cfmiRNA studies in breast cancer patients, aiming to identify altered cfmiRNA levels compared to healthy controls. A systematic literature search was conducted, resulting in 16 eligible publications. The studies included a total of 585 breast cancer cases and 496 healthy controls, with diverse sample types and different cfmiRNA assay panels. Several cfmiRNAs, including MIR16, MIR191, MIR484, MIR106a, and MIR193b, showed differential expressions between breast cancer cases and healthy controls. However, the studies had a high risk of bias and lacked standardized protocols. The findings highlight the need for robust study designs, standardized procedures, and larger sample sizes in discovery phase studies. Furthermore, the identified cfmiRNAs can serve as potential candidates for further validation studies in different populations. Improving the design and implementation of cfmiRNA research in liquid biopsies may enhance their clinical diagnostic utility in breast cancer patients.
Design, Synthesis, and Biological Evaluation of N′-Phenylhydrazides as Potential Antifungal Agents
Authors: Zhu Panpan , Zheng Jinshuo , Yan Jin , Li Zhaoxia , Li Xinyi , Geng Huiling
Published: October 2023

Fifty-two kinds of N′-phenylhydrazides were successfully designed and synthesized. Their antifungal activity in vitro against five strains of C. albicans (Candida albicans) was evaluated. All prepared compounds showed varying degrees of antifungal activity against C. albicans and their MIC80 (the concentration of tested compounds when their inhibition rate was at 80%), TAI (total activity index), and TSI (total susceptibility index) were calculated. The inhibitory activities of 27/52 compounds against fluconazole-resistant fungi C. albicans 4395 and 5272 were much better than those of fluconazole. The MIC80 values of 14/52 compounds against fluconazole-resistant fungus C. albicans 5122 were less than 4 μg/mL, so it was the most sensitive fungus (TSIB = 12.0). A11 showed the best inhibitory activity against C. albicans SC5314, 4395, and 5272 (MIC80 = 1.9, 4.0, and 3.7 μg/mL). The antifungal activities of B14 and D5 against four strains of fluconazole-resistant fungi were better than those of fluconazole. The TAI values of A11 (2.71), B14 (2.13), and D5 (2.25) are the highest. Further exploration of antifungal mechanisms revealed that the fungus treated with compound A11 produced free radicals and reactive oxygen species, and their mycelium morphology was damaged. In conclusion, the N′-phenylhydrazide scaffold showed potential in the development of antifungal lead compounds. Among them, A11, B14, and D5 demonstrated particularly promising antifungal activity and held potential as novel antifungal agents.
Iron, Ferroptosis, and Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Teng Yong , Gao Lixia , Mäkitie Antti A. , Florek Ewa , Czarnywojtek Agata , Saba Nabil F. , Ferlito Alfio
Published: October 2023

Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent regulatory form of cell death characterized by the accumulation of intracellular reactive oxygen species and lipid peroxidation. It plays a critical role not only in promoting drug resistance in tumors, but also in shaping therapeutic approaches for various malignancies. This review aims to elucidate the relationship between ferroptosis and head and neck cancer treatment by discussing its conceptual framework, mechanism of action, functional aspects, and implications for tumor therapy. In addition, this review consolidates strategies aimed at improving the efficacy of head and neck cancer treatment through modulation of ferroptosis, herein serving as a valuable reference for advancing the treatment landscape for this patient population.
Prospects for Expansion of Universal Newborn Screening in Bulgaria: A Survey among Medical Professionals
Authors: Iskrov Georgi , Angelova Vyara , Bochev Boyan , Valchinova Vaska , Gencheva Teodora , Dzhuleva Desislava , Dichev Julian , Nedkova Tanya , Palkova Mariya , Tyutyukova Anelia , Hristova Maria , Hristova-Atanasova Eleonora , Stefanov Rumen
Published: October 2023

Determining the scope of a newborn screening program is a challenging health policy issue. Our study aimed to explore the attitudes of specialists in pediatrics, neonatology, medical genetics, and biochemistry regarding the prospects for expanding the panel of diseases for universal newborn screening in Bulgaria. We conducted an online survey in March–May 2022. The questionnaire listed 35 disorders that could potentially be included in the Bulgarian panel for universal newborn screening. If endorsing a specific condition, participants had to justify their position by judging its performance against the ten principles of Wilson and Jungner. We found a high degree of knowledge about the current universal newborn screening program in Bulgaria. An overwhelming majority (97.4%) supported the expansion of the panel to include more conditions. Four disorders obtained more than 50% approval for inclusion: cystic fibrosis (87.0%), thalassemia (72.7%), spinal muscular atrophy (65.6%), and classical galactosemia (59.1%). The perception of the condition as an important health problem was the most significant factor in this support. The costs of diagnosis and treatment appeared to be the main source of concern. We recommend country-specific economic evaluations and research on the views of other stakeholders, including the government, payers, and patient organizations, to better understand and manage the complex nature of newborn screening policymaking.
Delving into Earth Dam Dynamics: Exploring the Impact of Inner Impervious Core and Toe Drain Arrangement on Seepage and Factor of Safety during Rapid Drawdown Scenarios
Authors: Utepov Yelbek Bakhitovich , Mkilima Timoth , Aldungarova Aliya Kairatovna , Shakhmov Zhanbolat Anuarbekovich , Akhazhanov Sungat Berkinovich , Saktaganova Nargul Amanovna , Abdikerova Uliya Baktybaevna , Budikova Aigul Moldashevna
Published: October 2023

The study examined the intricate relationships between embankment slope configurations, toe drain designs, and drawdown scenarios. It utilized a unique combination of numerical, physical, and mathematical models. The investigation involved 16 numerical models and 8 physical models with distinct characteristics. The research explored the correlations of key parameters: matric suction, horizontal water conductivity, time, and factor of safety. The factor of safety values varied from 0.62 to 1.03 as a result of the different investigated combinations. For instance, a 1:2 embankment slope without a toe drain under instantaneous drawdown led to the factor of safety values ranging from 1.22 to 1.57. Additionally, incorporating elements like a 30 m toe drain and a 1 m per day drawdown rate influenced these values, with extremes recorded from 1.337 to 2.21, shedding light on embankment stability under diverse conditions and configurations. When subjected to a 1 m per day drawdown, water flow rates decreased significantly at the upstream face and increased downstream, accompanied by an increase in water mass flux at the upstream face and a decrease at the downstream toe, suggesting dynamic changes in water behavior in response to drawdown. Moreover, the findings unveiled significant correlations between matric suction and time (correlation coefficient of 0.950) and factor of safety and water conductivity (correlation coefficient of 0.750). Conversely, a distinct negative correlation emerged between matric suction and factor of safety (correlation coefficient of −0.864). The study’s distinctive insights contribute to our understanding of seepage behavior and dam stability across varied scenarios, offering valuable input for resilient dam construction approaches that will ensure the longevity and effectiveness of these essential structures.