bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing the Impact of Atmospheric CO2 and NO2 Measurements From Space on Estimating City-Scale Fossil Fuel CO2 Emissions in a Data Assimilation System
Authors: Kaminski Thomas , Scholze Marko , Rayner Peter , Houweling Sander , Voßbeck Michael , Silver Jeremy , Lama Srijana , Buchwitz Michael , Reuter Maximilian , Knorr Wolfgang , Chen Hans W. , Kuhlmann Gerrit , Brunner Dominik , Dellaert Stijn , Denier van der Gon Hugo , Super Ingrid , Löscher Armin , Meijer Yasjka
Published: May 2022

The European Copernicus programme plans to install a constellation of multiple polar orbiting satellites (Copernicus Anthropogenic CO2 Monitoring Mission, CO2M mission) for observing atmospheric CO2 content with the aim to estimate fossil fuel CO2 emissions. We explore the impact of potential CO2M observations of column-averaged CO2 (XCO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and aerosols in a 200 × 200 km2 domain around Berlin. For the quantification of anticipated XCO2 random and systematic errors we developed and applied new error parameterisation formulae based on artificial neural networks. For the interpretation of these data, we further established a CCFFDAS modelling chain from parameters of emission models to XCO2 and NO2 observations to simulate the 24 h periods preceeding simulated CO2M overpasses over the study area. For one overpass in winter and one in summer, we present a number of assessments of observation impact in terms of the posterior uncertainty in fossil fuel emissions on scales ranging from 2 to 200 km. This means the assessments include temporal and spatial scales typically not covered by inventories. The assessments differentiate the fossil fuel CO2 emissions into two sectors, an energy generation sector (power plants) and the complement, which we call “other sector.” We find that combined measurements of XCO2 and aerosols provide a powerful constraint on emissions from larger power plants; the uncertainty in fossil fuel emissions from the largest three power plants in the domain was reduced by 60%–90% after assimilating the observations. Likewise, these measurements achieve an uncertainty reduction for the other sector that increases when aggregated to larger spatial scales. When aggregated over Berlin the uncertainty reduction for the other sector varies between 28% and 48%. Our assessments show a considerable contribution of aerosol observations onboard CO2M to the constraint of the XCO2 measurements on emissions from all power plants and for the other sector on all spatial scales. NO2 measurements onboard CO2M provide a powerful additional constraint on the emissions from power plants and from the other sector. We further apply a Jacobian representation of the CCFFDAS modelling chain to decompose a simulated CO2 column in terms of spatial emission impact. This analysis reveals the complex structure of the footprint of an observed CO2 column, which indicates the limits of simple mass balances approaches for interpretation of such observations.
A Scoping Review Exploring Whether a Free “Offer” Devalues or Widens Sport and Physical Activity Participation Amongst Children and Young Adults Aged 0–25?
Authors: Durden-Myers E. J. , Swaithes L.
Published: May 2022

Background

Socio-economic status continues to mediate physical activity engagement, despite a range of interventions aimed at reducing inequalities and widening sport and physical activity participation. As a result there has been increasing interest amongst policy makers, national governing bodies (NGB), county sports partnerships (CPS) and the sport and physical activity sector more broadly, in understanding how best to reduce inequalities and widen participation. The “price point” of offers and whether a “free offer” enables or devalues participation, has been a key area of interest. This scoping review aimed to explore this topic further by investigating whether “a free “offer” devalues or widens sport and physical activity participation amongst children and young adults aged 0-25?”.

Methods

This scoping review searched three electronic bibliographic databases (MEDLINE, PsycINFO, SPORTDiscus) using a structured search strategy to identify articles published between 2017 and January 2022. Studies were included using the PICO criteria of; Population: children and young adults aged 0-25; Intervention: free “offer” relating to physical activity; Context: areas of deprivation in the UK; Outcome: engagement, involvement, participation in sport and physical activity.

Results and Discussion

Five studies were eligible after screening 1301 titles and reviewing 14 full-text studies. Features reported included intervention design, outcomes, potential challenges and wider implications / future recommendations. Specifically, a narrative synthesis of the key themes of participation deprivation and cost effectiveness were outlined in more detail. A subsidized cost or free offer can improve participation generally and in attracting those from lower socio-economic backgrounds. However, the impact of such initiatives decrease with increasing deprivation highlighting that groups with the highest levels of deprivation have wider complexities affecting their participation. Competing priorities and potentially unrealistic expectations at stakeholders level was also identified.

Conclusion

Despite the paucity of current research exploring the impact of a “free offer” in children and young adults, recommendations for future research, practice and policy included the need for longitudinal, more holistic and participant centric approaches. Further research is required to explore the impact of a “free offer” from an individual, societal and policy-level perspective, in widening and increasing participation in sport and physical activity.
Effects of Comorbidities on Pain and Function After Total Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: Lan Pingwen , Chen Xi , Fang Zhi , Zhang Jianjun , Liu Shuping , Liu Yuehong
Published: May 2022

Background

The growing number of patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA) and postoperative outcomes receive increasing attention from doctors and patients. This study aimed to elucidate the effects of comorbidities on postoperative function, pain, complications, readmission rate, and mortality.

Methods

We included consecutive patients who underwent primary unilateral THA between 2017 and 2019. The Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) and the WOMAC and SF-36 (physical function, body pain) scales were assessed preoperatively and at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months postoperatively. The complications, 30-day readmission, and mortality rates assessed the impact of comorbidities and their changes over time on the WOMAC and SF-36 scores during follow-up. We used mixed model linear regression to examine the association of worsening comorbidity post-THA with change in WOMAC and SF-36 scores in the subsequent follow-up periods, controlling for age, length of follow-up, and repeated observations.

Results

This study included 468 patients, divided into four groups based on comorbidity burden (CCI-0, 1, 2, and ≥3). The physiological function recovery and pain scores in the CCI ≥ 3 group were inferior to the other groups and took longer than the other groups (6 vs. 3 months) to reach their best level. The four groups preoperative waiting times were 2.41 ± 0.74, 2.97 ± 0.65, 3.80 ± 0.53, and 5.01 ± 0.71 days, respectively. The complications, 30-day readmission, and 1-year mortality rates for the overall and the CCI ≥ 3 group were 1.92% and 4.69%, 0.85% and 2.01%, and 0.43% and 1.34%, respectively, with no mortality in the other groups.

Conclusion

Patients with higher CCI were more susceptible to physical function and pain outcome deterioration, experienced longer waiting time before surgery, took longer to recover, and had higher rates of complications, 30-day readmission, and mortality after THA. Older age in the group led to a greater impact.
How Working Conditions, Socioeconomic Insecurity, and Behavior-Related Factors Mediate the Association Between Working Poverty and Health in Germany
Authors: Pförtner Timo-Kolja , Demirer Ibrahim
Published: May 2022

Objectives:Aims of this study were to Schmitt (Advances in Life Course Research, 2021, 47: 100402) analyze the association of working poverty with mental and physical health-related quality of life and (Wang and Ford, J Organ Behav, 2020, 41 (9): 895–914) to explain these associations by behavior-related factors (heavy drinking, smoking status, body mass index), socioeconomic insecurity (deprivation in living standards, economic worries), and mental working conditions (effort-reward imbalance, job insecurity).

Methods:A total of 11,500 employees aged 17–67 from the German Socioeconomic Panel (2014, 2015, and 2016) were used, and mediation analyses with inverse odds weighting stratified by gender were conducted.

Results:Working poverty was significantly associated with both outcomes for both genders. Deprivation in living standards contributed the most to differences in mental health, with a mediated proportion of 60.3% (men) and 44.4% (women). Differences in physical health were significantly mediated by inadequate living standards in women, with a mediated proportion of 73.7%, whereas none of the mediators considered were significant in men.

Conclusion:Indicators of socioeconomic insecurity contributed most to the association of working poverty with mental and physical health. Results highlight the relevance of policy initiatives to strengthen the socioeconomic living conditions of the working poor.
Exploring Cross-Sectoral Implications of the Sustainable Development Goals: Towards a Framework for Integrating Health Equity Perspectives With the Land-Water-Energy Nexus
Authors: Onabola Christiana O. , Andrews Nathan , Gislason Maya K. , Harder Henry G. , Parkes Margot W.
Published: May 2022

Objectives: To assess existing evidence and identify gaps in the integrative framework of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for their potential to advance cross-sectoral perspectives and actions that connect health equity with the land-water-energy nexus in a watershed context.

Methods: Five bibliographic databases were searched from 2016 to 2021. This yielded an initial 226 publications, which were screened for titles, abstracts, and full texts on DistillerSR; resulting in a final 30 publications that were studied. These keywords defined the search terms: “health equity,” “SDGs,” “watershed,” “resource nexus,” and “cross-sectoral.”

Results: Thematic syntheses of debates and gaps point to the relevance of the SDGs as a cross-sectoral, integrative platform for place-based programming of the land-water-energy nexus, and to account for negative externalities and cascaded impacts on human and environmental health.

Conclusion: For the purpose of monitoring health equity in the contexts of interactions of land, water, and energy in rural, remote, and Indigenous contexts, and on the basis of the SDGs, this paper generates evidence to inform health equity-oriented policies, programs and practices, and to enhance health for equity-seeking populations.
NTRK Fusions in a Sarcomas Series: Pathology, Molecular and Clinical Aspects
Authors: Siozopoulou Vasiliki , Marcq Elly , De Winne Koen , Norga Koen , Schmitz Gertjan , Duwel Valerie , Delvenne Philippe , Smits Evelien , Pauwels Patrick
Published: May 2022

Targeting molecular alterations has been proven to be an inflecting point in tumor treatment. Especially in recent years, inhibitors that target the tyrosine receptor kinase show excellent response rates and durable effects in all kind of tumors that harbor fusions of one of the three neurotrophic tyrosine receptor kinase genes (NTRK1, NTRK2 and NTRK3). Today, the therapeutic options in most metastatic sarcomas are rather limited. Therefore, identifying which sarcoma types are more likely to harbor these targetable NTRK fusions is of paramount importance. At the moment, identification of these fusions is solely based on immunohistochemistry and confirmed by molecular techniques. However, a first attempt has been made to describe the histomorphology of NTRK-fusion positive sarcomas, in order to pinpoint which of these tumors are the best candidates for testing. In this study, we investigate the immunohistochemical expression of pan-TRK in 70 soft tissue and bone sarcomas. The pan-TRK positive cases were further investigated with molecular techniques for the presence of a NTRK fusion. Seven out of the 70 cases showed positivity for pan-TRK, whereas two of these seven cases presented an NTRK3 fusion. Further analysis of the fused sarcomas revealed some unique histological, molecular and clinical findings. The goal of this study is to expand the histomorphological spectrum of the NTRK-fused sarcomas, to identify their fusion partners and to correlate these parameters with the clinical outcome of the disease. In addition, we evaluated the immunohistochemical expression pattern of the pan-TRK and its correlation with the involved NTRK gene.
Effects of Type of Concentrate and Timing of Supplementation on Feed Intake, Nitrogen Use, and Performance in Lactating Dairy Cows Grazing an Alfalfa-Ryegrass Sward
Authors: Dickhoefer Uta , Sainz-Sanchez Pedro Alan , Rojas Gustavo , Castro-Montoya Joaquín Miguel , Gomez Carlos
Published: May 2022

The aim was to analyze the effects of two cereal grains differing in nutritional composition and starch degradation characteristics and the timing of their supplementation on feed intake, rumen microbial protein synthesis (MPS), performance, and nitrogen use of lactating dairy cows grazing an alfalfa-ryegrass sward. Four dietary treatments were tested in 24 lactating Brown Swiss cows in an incomplete 4 × 3 Latin square design. Cows were supplemented with 3.5 kg/d (as-fed basis) of a corn-based or an oat-based concentrate mixture (CM), of which either the majority (2.5 vs. 1.0 kg/d) was offered before or after grazing. Feed intake was similar across diets, but the interaction between type of CM and timing of supplementation affected eating time (p = 0.010), milk protein (p = 0.013) and energy-corrected milk yields (p = 0.025), efficiency of rumen MPS (p = 0.094), and nitrogen use efficiency (p = 0.081). Most of these variables were greater when the majority of the corn-based CM was offered after grazing and the oat-based CM before grazing. Supplementing slowly degradable starch sources after and rapidly degradable starch sources before grazing may improve the efficiency of rumen MPS, milk performance, and nitrogen use efficiency in dairy cows grazing alfalfa-ryegrass swards.
In Situ Observations of Wind Turbines Wakes with Unmanned Aerial Vehicle BOREAL within the MOMEMTA Project
Authors: Alaoui-Sosse Sara , Durand Pierre , Médina Patrice
Published: May 2022

The MOMENTA project combines in situ and remote sensing observations, wind tunnel experiments, and numerical modeling to improve the knowledge of wake structure in wind farms in order to model its impact on the wind turbines and to optimize wind farm layout. In this context, we present the results of a first campaign conducted with a BOREAL unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) designed to measure the three wind components with a horizontal resolution as fine as 3 m. The observations were performed at a wind farm where six turbines were installed. Despite the strong restrictions imposed by air traffic control authorities, we were able to document the wake area of two turbines during two flights in April 2021. The flight patterns consisted of horizontal racetracks with various orientations performed at different distances from the wind turbines; thus, horizontal wind speed fields were built in which the wind reduction area in the wake is clearly displayed. On a specific day, we observed an overspeed area between the individual wakes of two wind turbines, likely resulting from the cumulative effect of the wakes generated behind two successive rows of turbines. This study demonstrates the potential of BOREAL to document turbine wakes.
Effect of Nitrogen Fertilization on Savvatiano (Vitis vinifera L.) Grape and Wine Composition
Authors: Miliordos Dimitrios Evangelos , Kanapitsas Alexandros , Lola Despina , Goulioti Elli , Kontoudakis Nikolaos , Leventis Georgios , Tsiknia Myrto , Kotseridis Yorgos
Published: May 2022

Nitrogen nutrition is one of the most effective cultural practices in vineyards. The vine nitrogen status influences the berries’ quality characteristics and the produced wines. The current study investigated the effect of traditional nitrogen fertilization in the form of ammonium sulfate compared to nitrogen fertilization coupled with the nitrification inhibitor 3,4-Dimethylpyrazole phosphate (DMPP) on the agronomic characteristics of grapes and the produced wines of the white variety Savvatiano from a productive vineyard in the Attiki region. Must and wine quality was evaluated by a chemical analysis and sensorial evaluation by trained panelists. The different forms of nitrogen fertilizers did not significantly affect the aroma and sensory profile in contrast to unfertilized grapevines. In addition, the applied fertilization increased some important aroma compounds in the wine, compared to no fertilization. The significance of this work is to add information about the effect of nitrogen fertilization on the wine volatile composition of the Greek white grapevine Savvatiano.
Eslicarbazepine, but Not Lamotrigine or Ranolazine, Shows Anticonvulsant Efficacy in Carbamazepine-Resistant Rats Developed by Window-Pentylenetetrazole Kindling
Authors: Zavala-Tecuapetla Cecilia , Manjarrez-Marmolejo Joaquín , Ramírez-Jarquín Josué Orlando , Rivera-Cerecedo Claudia Verónica
Published: May 2022

Approximately 30% of epileptic patients develop Drug-Resistant Epilepsy. Based on evidence that shows a loss of efficacy in some sodium channel blocker antiseizure drugs in epilepsy, we focus our study on assessing the anticonvulsant efficacy of different sodium channel blockers on carbamazepine (CBZ)-resistant seizures generated using the window-pentylenetetrazole (PTZ) kindling model to verify whether one of these drugs presents some anticonvulsant effect that could have potential therapeutic use. Wistar rats were treated with a subthreshold dose of PTZ (35 mg/kg) three times/week. Fully kindled rats were then treated with a single dose of CBZ (40 mg/kg i.p.) at 2, 9 and 16 days after their last kindling stimulation to obtain CBZ-resistant rats. Right after, sodium channel blockers were tested for anticonvulsant action (lamotrigine, 30 mg/kg i.p.; eslicarbazepine, 150 or 300 mg/kg i.p.; ranolazine, 10, 20 or 40 mg/kg i.p.). Behavioral parameters included severity, latency or duration of convulsions. Our data showed for the first time directly that eslicarbazepine does have an anticonvulsant effect over CBZ-resistant seizures, while lamotrigine shows drug resistance and ranolazine demonstrates severe seizure worsening. It is of potential therapeutic relevance that eslicarbazepine could be useful to control seizures resistant to common sodium channel blockers such as CBZ.
External Validation of Two Established Clinical Risk Scores Predicting Outcome after Local Treatment of Colorectal Liver Metastases in a Nationwide Cohort
Authors: Bolhuis Karen , Wensink G. Emerens , Elferink Marloes A. G. , Bond Marinde J. G. , Dijksterhuis Willemieke P. M. , Fijneman Remond J. A. , Kranenburg Onno W. , Rinkes Inne H. M. Borel , Koopman Miriam , Swijnenburg Rutger-Jan , Vink Geraldine R. , Hagendoorn Jeroen , Punt Cornelis J. A. , Elias Sjoerd G. , Roodhart Jeanine M. L.
Published: May 2022

Optimized surgical techniques and systemic therapy have increased the number of patients with colorectal liver metastases (CRLM) eligible for local treatment. To increase postoperative survival, we need to stratify patients to customize therapy. Most clinical risk scores (CRSs) which predict prognosis after CRLM resection were based on the outcome of studies in specialized centers, and this may hamper the generalizability of these CRSs in unselected populations and underrepresented subgroups. We aimed to externally validate two CRSs in a population-based cohort of patients with CRLM. A total of 1105 patients with local treatment of CRLM, diagnosed in 2015/2016, were included from a nationwide population-based database. Survival outcomes were analyzed. The Fong and more recently developed GAME CRS were externally validated, including in pre-specified subgroups (≤70/>70 years and with/without perioperative systemic therapy). The three-year DFS was 22.8%, and the median OS in the GAME risk groups (high/moderate/low) was 32.4, 46.7, and 68.1 months, respectively (p < 0.005). The median OS for patients with versus without perioperative therapy was 47.6 (95%CI [39.8, 56.2]) and 54.9 months (95%CI [48.8, 63.7]), respectively (p = 0.152), and for below/above 70 years, it was 54.9 (95%CI [49.3–64.1]) and 44.2 months (95%CI [37.1–54.3]), respectively (p < 0.005). The discriminative ability for OS of Fong CRS was 0.577 (95%CI [0.554, 0.601]), and for GAME, it was 0.596 (95%CI [0.572, 0.621]), and was comparable in the subgroups. In conclusion, both CRSs showed predictive ability in a population-based cohort and in predefined subgroups. However, the limited discriminative ability of these CRSs results in insufficient preoperative risk stratification for clinical decision-making.
Encapsulation of Hydrophobic Porphyrins into Biocompatible Nanoparticles: An Easy Way to Benefit of Their Two-Photon Phototherapeutic Effect without Hydrophilic Functionalization
Authors: Shi Limiao , Nguyen Christophe , Daurat Morgane , Richy Nicolas , Gauthier Corentin , Rebecq Estelle , Gary-Bobo Magali , Cammas-Marion Sandrine , Mongin Olivier , Paul-Roth Christine O. , Paul Frédéric
Published: May 2022

Star-shaped hydrophobic porphyrins, acting as powerful fluorescent two-photon photosensitizers for oxygen in organic solvents, can easily be loaded into PMLABe polymeric nanoparticles at various concentrations. In this contribution, the performance of these porphyrin-containing nanoparticles in terms of photodynamic therapy (PDT) is compared to those of the corresponding water-soluble porphyrin analogues when irradiated in MCF-7 cancer cells. While quite promising results are obtained for performing PDT with these nanoparticles, validating this approach as a mean for using more easily accessible and less expensive photosensitizers, from a synthetic perspective, we also show that their luminescence can still be used for bioimaging purposes in spite of their confinement in the nanoparticles, validating also the use of these nano-objects for theranostic purposes.
Epidemiological, Clinical, Ultrasonographic and Cytological Characteristics of Thyroid Nodules in an Afro-Caribbean Population: A Series of 420 Patients
Authors: Rano Elodie , Lin Lucien , Molinie Vincent , Sulpicy Caroline , Dorival Marie-Josée , Drak Alsibai Kinan , Nacher Mathieu , Drame Moustafa , Sabbah Nadia
Published: May 2022

The incidence of thyroid cancer is increasing worldwide. The aim of this study is to describe the epidemiological, clinical and ultrasound characteristics of malignancy in thyroid nodules and to evaluate the predictive value of the Bethesda system for thyroid cytology in the diagnosis of malignancy in an Afro-Caribbean population. We conducted a retrospective study in Martinique involving 420 patients with a diagnosis of thyroid nodules between 2011 and 2014. Of the 192/420 (45.7%) patients operated on for thyroid nodules, 9% had thyroid cancer. All patients with thyroid cancer were obese women with a mean age of 50 years. The final histological examination revealed papillary microcarcinomas in 61% of cases and papillary carcinomas in 39% of cases. Thyroid cytology alone had a low sensitivity (22.2%) and positive predictive value (15.4%) for the diagnosis of malignancy, with a good specificity (91.1%) and negative predictive value (94.2%). None of the standard ultrasound criteria of malignancy were significantly predictive of cancer, but hypoechogenicity and central vascularity were frequently found in malignant nodules. These epidemiological, clinical and ultrasound results could increase awareness and guide practitioners in their diagnostic approach and management of thyroid nodules in an Afro-Caribbean population. Bethesda system-based cytology revealed lower sensitivity in analyzing the risk of malignancy in this population. The high prevalence of papillary microcarcinomas may explain the inconclusive ultrasound and cytological results.
lncRNAs UC.145 and PRKG1-AS1 Determine the Functional Output of DKK1 in Regulating the Wnt Signaling Pathway in Gastric Cancer
Authors: Yoon Jung-ho , Byun Hyojoo , Ivan Cristina , Calin George A. , Jung Dahyun , Lee Sangkil
Published: May 2022

DKK1 inhibits the canonical Wnt signaling pathway that is known to be involved in various cancers. However, whether DKK1 acts as an oncogene or tumor suppressor gene remains controversial. Furthermore, the DKK1-regulating mechanism in gastric cancer has not yet been defined. The aim of this study was to explore whether the ultraconserved region UC.145 regulates epigenetic changes in DKK1 expression in gastric cancer. Microarray analysis revealed that UC.145 exhibited the highest binding affinity to EZH2, a histone methyltransferase. The effects of UC.145 inactivation were assessed in gastric cancer cell lines using siRNA. The results indicated that UC.145 triggers DKK1 methylation via interaction with EZH2 and is involved in the canonical Wnt signaling pathway. Additionally, interaction between UC.145 and another long non-coding RNA adjacent to DKK1, PRKG1-AS1, induced a synergistic effect on Wnt signaling. The regulation of these three genes was closely associated with patient overall survival. Inactivation of UC.145 induced apoptosis and inhibited the growth and migratory, invasive, and colony-forming abilities of gastric cancer cells. The study findings provide insights into Wnt signaling in gastric cancer and support UC.145 as a potential novel predictive biomarker for the disease.
Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer: A Genetic Update and Future Perspectives
Authors: Zambrano-Román Marianela , Padilla-Gutiérrez Jorge R. , Valle Yeminia , Muñoz-Valle José F. , Valdés-Alvarado Emmanuel
Published: May 2022

Skin cancer is one of the main types of cancer worldwide, and non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) is the most frequent within this group. Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) are the most common types. Multifactorial features are well-known for cancer development, and new hallmarks are gaining relevance. Genetics and epigenetic regulation play an essential role in cancer susceptibility and progression, as well as the variety of cells and molecules that interact in the tumor microenvironment. In this review, we provide an update on the genetic features of NMSC, candidate genes, and new therapies, considering diverse perspectives of skin carcinogenesis. The global health situation and the pandemic have been challenging for health care systems, especially in the diagnosis and treatment of patients with cancer. We provide innovative approaches to overcome the difficulties in the current clinical dynamics.
Long-Term Evaluation of Intranigral Transplantation of Human iPSC-Derived Dopamine Neurons in a Parkinson’s Disease Mouse Model
Authors: Brot Sébastien , Thamrin Nabila Pyrenina , Bonnet Marie-Laure , Francheteau Maureen , Patrigeon Maëlig , Belnoue Laure , Gaillard Afsaneh
Published: May 2022

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder associated with loss of dopaminergic (DA) neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc). One strategy for treating PD is transplantation of DA neuroblasts. Significant advances have been made in generating midbrain DA neurons from human pluripotent stem cells. Before these cells can be routinely used in clinical trials, extensive preclinical safety studies are required. One of the main issues to be addressed is the long-term therapeutic effectiveness of these cells. In most transplantation studies using human cells, the maturation of DA neurons has been analyzed over a relatively short period not exceeding 6 months. In present study, we generated midbrain DA neurons from human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) and grafted these neurons into the SNpc in an animal model of PD. Graft survival and maturation were analyzed from 1 to 12 months post-transplantation (mpt). We observed long-term survival and functionality of the grafted neurons. However, at 12 mpt, we observed a decrease in the proportion of SNpc DA neuron subtype compared with that at 6 mpt. In addition, at 12 mpt, grafts still contained immature neurons. Our results suggest that longer-term evaluation of the maturation of neurons derived from human stem cells is mandatory for the safe application of cell therapy for PD.
Reverting TP53 Mutation in Breast Cancer Cells: Prime Editing Workflow and Technical Considerations
Authors: Abuhamad Asmaa Y. , Mohamad Zamberi Nurul Nadia , Sheen Ling , Naes Safaa M. , Mohd Yusuf Siti Nur Hasanah , Ahmad Tajudin Asilah , Mohtar M. Aiman , Amir Hamzah Amir Syahir , Syafruddin Saiful Effendi
Published: May 2022

Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in women. The aggressive breast cancer subtype is commonly linked to the genetic alterations in the TP53 tumor suppressor gene, predominantly the missense mutations. Robust experimental models are needed to gain better insights into these mutations’ molecular properties and implications in tumorigenesis. The generation of such models harboring the alterations is feasible with the CRISPR-based gene editing technology. Moreover, the development of new CRISPR applications, particularly DNA base and prime editing, has considerably improved the precision and versatility of gene editing. Here, we employed the prime editing tool to revert a TP53 missense C > T mutation (L194F) in a T47D luminal A breast cancer cell line. In parallel, this prime editing tool was also utilized to introduce the L194F mutation in HEK293T cells. To assess the prime editing efficiency in both cell lines, we first performed Sanger sequencing in the prime-edited cells pool and single cell-derived clones. However, the Sanger sequencing approach did not detect any base substitution in these cell lines. Next, by employing the more sensitive amplicon target sequencing, we managed to identify the expected substitution in these T47D and HEK293T cells, albeit the editing efficiency was low. In light of these findings, we discussed the technical aspects and provided suggestions for improve the prime editing workflow and efficiency for future experiments.
Evaluation on Thermal Protection Performance of TiO2@ATO Coated Aramid Nonwoven
Authors: Liu Wanwan , Sun Qilong , Xue Chao , Long Xiaoyun , Zhang Wei
Published: May 2022

Aramid nonwoven (AN), with lightweight and flexible features, is highly attractive as a thermal insulation material to prevent or minimize skin burn damage. However, it has a finite protective effect due to the restriction of the polymer material and the surface hairiness of nonwoven fabrics. This study aimed to introduce different shapes of TiO2 particles coated with Sn(Sb)O2 (ATO) so as to promote protective performance by taking advantage of the high refraction of TiO2@ATO in the visible light (Vis) and near-infrared (NIR) range. It is demonstrated that, compared with AN, the thermal protection effect of the obtained TiO2@ATO-coated AN (TiO2@ATO/AN) was significantly improved owing to the excellent radiation and conduction heat-shielding performance of the TiO2@ATO coating. The micro-morphology, Vis–NIR spectral features, heat-shielding performances, and thermal protective performance (TPP) values of different composite nonwovens were measured to explore their thermal insulation mechanisms and performances. Compared with pristine AN and AN coated with commercial nano-ATO (ATO/AN), the heating rate of TiO2@ATO/AN heated using an alcohol lamp was much lower. The maximum TPP values of TiO2@ATO/AN were enhanced to 1457.874 kW·s/m2, while the values for AN and ATO/AN were only 432.23 kW·s/m2 and 945.054 kW·s/m2, respectively. This study proposes an attractive solution for protecting fabrics against heat damage and opens up tremendous possibilities for heat-resistant nonwoven materials applied in the thermal protection field.
Bacterial and Archaeal Water and Sediment Communities of Two Hot Spring Streams in Tengchong, Yunnan Province, China
Authors: Li Jinshan , Zhang Zhufeng , Liu Tao , Xiong Hui , Zhao Shumiao , Mei Yuxia , Peng Nan , Liang Yunxiang
Published: May 2022

In Tengchong County, springs with wide physicochemical diversity provide a multitude of niches for extremophilic microorganisms. In this study, eight middle-low temperature spring sites along two continuous small streams with low water flow and slow speed in the fourth geothermal experience area of Rehai scenic spot were chosen, and geochemical characteristics and HTS of the 16S rRNA V4 region were used to analyze the prokaryotic community structure and diversity in the water and sediment of these sites. The effect of environmental factors on the microbial communities was explored via redundancy analysis (RDA). All sediment samples had higher alpha diversity values than the corresponding water samples. Twenty-five phyla were annotated; Euryarchaeota, Crenarchaeota, Aquificae, Thermotogae and Proteobacteria were the dominant phyla, accounting for 95.31% of all prokaryotes, with relative abundances above 5%. Aquificae dominated in water samples, while Euryarchaeota dominated in sediment samples. RDA indicated that temperature was the main factor influencing the microbial communities in the two streams. The study expands the current understanding of the microbiology of Tengchong hot springs and provides a basis for further mining of hot spring microbial and functional gene resources.
Smart Home IoT Network Risk Assessment Using Bayesian Networks
Authors: Flores Miguel , Heredia Diego , Andrade Roberto , Ibrahim Mariam
Published: May 2022

A risk assessment model for a smart home Internet of Things (IoT) network is implemented using a Bayesian network. The directed acyclic graph of the Bayesian network is constructed from an attack graph that details the paths through which different attacks can occur in the IoT network. The parameters of the Bayesian network are estimated with the maximum likelihood method applied to a data set obtained from the simulation of attacks, in five simulation scenarios. For the risk assessment, inferences in the Bayesian network and the impact of the attacks are considered, focusing on DoS attacks, MitM attacks and both at the same time to the devices that allow the automation of the smart home and that are generally the ones that individually have lower levels of security.
Correction: Stuckey et al. Why the Tsirelson Bound? Bub’s Question and Fuchs’ Desideratum. Entropy 2019, 21, 692
Authors: Stuckey William , Silberstein Michael , McDevitt Timothy , Kohler Ian
Published: May 2022

The authors wish to make the following correction to this paper [...]
The Cuts Selection Method Based on Histogram Segmentation and Impact on Discretization Algorithms
Authors: Ognjenovic Visnja , Brtka Vladimir , Stojanov Jelena , Brtka Eleonora , Berkovic Ivana
Published: May 2022

The preprocessing of data is an important task in rough set theory as well as in Entropy. The discretization of data as part of the preprocessing of data is a very influential process. Is there a connection between the segmentation of the data histogram and data discretization? The authors propose a novel data segmentation technique based on a histogram with regard to the quality of a data discretization. The significance of a cut’s position has been researched on several groups of histograms. A data set reduct was observed with respect to the histogram type. Connections between the data histograms and cuts, reduct and the classification rules have been researched. The result is that the reduct attributes have a more irregular histogram than attributes out of the reduct. The following discretization algorithms were used: the entropy algorithm and the Maximal Discernibility algorithm developed in rough set theory. This article presents the Cuts Selection Method based on histogram segmentation, reduct of data and MD algorithm of discretization. An application on the selected database shows that the benefits of a selection of cuts relies on histogram segmentation. The results of the classification were compared with the results of the Naïve Bayes algorithm.
A Transformer-Based Capsule Network for 3D Part–Whole Relationship Learning
Authors: Chen Yu , Zhao Jieyu , Qiu Qilu
Published: May 2022

Learning the relationship between the part and whole of an object, such as humans recognizing objects, is a challenging task. In this paper, we specifically design a novel neural network to explore the local-to-global cognition of 3D models and the aggregation of structural contextual features in 3D space, inspired by the recent success of Transformer in natural language processing (NLP) and impressive strides in image analysis tasks such as image classification and object detection. We build a 3D shape Transformer based on local shape representation, which provides relation learning between local patches on 3D mesh models. Similar to token (word) states in NLP, we propose local shape tokens to encode local geometric information. On this basis, we design a shape-Transformer-based capsule routing algorithm. By applying an iterative capsule routing algorithm, local shape information can be further aggregated into high-level capsules containing deeper contextual information so as to realize the cognition from the local to the whole. We performed classification tasks on the deformable 3D object data sets SHREC10 and SHREC15 and the large data set ModelNet40, and obtained profound results, which shows that our model has excellent performance in complex 3D model recognition and big data feature learning.
Study on the Optimal Dispatching Strategy of a Combined Cooling, Heating and Electric Power System Based on Demand Response
Authors: Zhao Ye , Dou Zhenhai , Yu Zexu , Xie Ruishuo , Qiao Mengmeng , Wang Yuanyuan , Liu Lianxin
Published: May 2022

This paper proposes a combined cooling, heating and electric power (CCHP) system based on demand side response. In order to improve the economy of the system, a two-stage optimal scheduling scheme is proposed with the goal of minimizing the total operating cost of the system and maximizing user satisfaction. The optimal operation of the system was divided into two optimization problems, including the demand side and the supply side. In the first stage, combined with user satisfaction, from the new point of view that users are prone to excessive behavior due to time-of-use electricity prices, the cooling, heating and power load curves are optimized. In the second stage, an economic dispatch model that includes operating costs in terms of energy, maintenance and environment is established. An improved artificial bee colony (IABC) algorithm is used to solve the optimal energy production scheme based on the demand curves optimized in the first stage. Case studies are conducted to verify the efficiency of the proposed method. Compared with the CCHP system that does not consider demand response, this method reduced operation cost on typical days in summer and winter by 5.20% and 5.76%, respectively.
Monitoring the Microseismicity through a Dense Seismic Array and a Similarity Search Detection Technique: Application to the Seismic Monitoring of Collalto Gas-Storage, North Italy
Authors: Scala Antonio , Adinolfi Guido Maria , Picozzi Matteo , Scotto di Uccio Francesco , Festa Gaetano , De Landro Grazia , Priolo Enrico , Parolai Stefano , Riccio Rosario , Romanelli Marco
Published: May 2022

Seismic monitoring in areas where induced earthquakes could occur is a challenging topic for seismologists due to the generally very low signal to noise ratio. Therefore, the seismological community is devoting several efforts to the development of high-quality networks around the areas where fluid injection and storage and geothermal activities take place, also following the national induced seismicity monitoring guidelines. The use of advanced data mining strategies, such as template matching filters, auto-similarity search, and deep-learning approaches, has recently further fostered such monitoring, enhancing the seismic catalogs and lowering the magnitude of completeness of these areas. In this framework, we carried out an experiment where a small-aperture seismic array was installed within the dense seismic network used for monitoring the gas reservoir of Collalto, in North Italy. The continuous velocimetric data, acquired for 25 days, were analysed through the application of the optimized auto-similarity search technique FAST. The array was conceived as a cost-effective network, aimed at integrating, right above the gas storage site, the permanent high-resolution Collalto Seismic Network. The analysis allowed to detect micro-events down to magnitude Ml = −0.4 within a distance of ~15 km from the array. Our results confirmed that the system based on the array installation and the FAST data analysis might contribute to lowering the magnitude of completeness around the site of about 0.7 units.
RLS-Based Algorithm for Detecting Partial Demagnetization under Both Stationary and Nonstationary Conditions
Authors: Jiang Ze , Huang Xiaoyan , Cao Wenping
Published: May 2022

An algorithm was developed detect the partial demagnetization of permanent-magnet synchronous motors (PMSMs) under both stationary and nonstationary conditions. On the basis of the recursive least-squares (RLS) method, the vital component of fault-related harmonics in the current could be extracted on the line, and its proportion to fundamental component could be regarded as the indicator of partial demagnetization faults. The proposed algorithm is fairly easy to realize and could substitute conventional and complicated signal processing methods such as Fourier transform and wavelet transform when detecting partial demagnetization. Experiments with inverter-fed healthy and partially demagnetized PMSMs are carried out to substantiate the effectiveness of proposed algorithm under both stationary and nonstationary conditions. At the end, a way to eliminate the impact of eccentricity fault on the partial demagnetization diagnosis is given.
The Impact of Uncertainties on Crude Oil Prices: Based on a Quantile-on-Quantile Method
Authors: Ding Yan , Liu Yue , Failler Pierre
Published: May 2022

There has always been a complex relationship between uncertainty and crude oil prices. Three types of uncertainty, i.e., economic policy uncertainty, geopolitical risk uncertainty, and climate policy uncertainty (EPU, GPR, and CPU for short), have exacerbated abnormal fluctuations in the energy market, making crude oil prices volatile more and more frequently, especially from the perspective of the financial attribute of crude oil. Based on the time-series data related to uncertainties and crude oil prices from December 2001 to March 2021, this paper uses the quantile-on-quantile regression (QQR) method to explore the overall impact of various uncertainties on crude oil prices. Moreover, this paper adopts the QQR method based on the wavelet transform to investigate the heterogeneous effects of various uncertainties on crude oil prices at different time scales. The following conclusions are obtained. First, there are significant differences in the overall impact of the three types of uncertainties on crude oil prices, and this heterogeneity is reflected in quantiles of the peak impact intensity, the impact direction, and the fluctuation change. Second, the impact intensities of the three types of uncertainties on crude oil prices are significantly different at different time scales. This is mainly reflected in the different periods of significant impact of the three uncertainties on crude oil prices. Third, the impact directions and fluctuations of the three types of uncertainties on crude oil prices are heterogeneous at different time scales.
Prony Method Estimation for Motor Current Signal Analysis Diagnostics in Rotor Cage Induction Motors
Authors: Trujillo Guajardo Luis Alonso , Platas Garza Miguel Angel , Rodríguez Maldonado Johnny , González Vázquez Mario Alberto , Rodríguez Alfaro Luis Humberto , Salinas Salinas Fernando
Published: May 2022

This article presents an evaluation of Prony method and its implementation considerations for motor current signal analysis diagnostics in rotor cage induction motors. The broken rotor bar fault signature in current signals is evaluated using Prony method, where its advantages in comparison with fast Fourier transform are presented. The broken rotor bar fault signature could occur during the life cycle operation of induction motors, so that is why an effective early detection estimation technique of this fault could prevent an insulation failure or heavy damage, leaving the motor out of service. First, an overview of cage winding defects in rotor cage induction motors is presented. Next, Prony method and its considerations for the implementation in current signature analysis are described. Then, the performance of Prony method using numerical simulations is evaluated. Lastly, an assessment of Prony method as a tool for current signal analysis diagnostics is performed using a laboratory test system where real signals of an induction motor with broken rotor bar operated with/without a variable frequency drive are analyzed. The summary results of the estimation (amplitudes and frequencies) are presented in the results and discussion section.
Hardware Implementation of Novel Shade Dispersion PV Reconfiguration Technique to Enhance Maximum Power under Partial Shading Conditions
Authors: Chavan Vinaya Chandrakant , Mikkili Suresh , Senjyu Tomonobu
Published: May 2022

Partial shade condition is a significant factor contributing to the PV panel performance in mismatch losses and power generation. The technique suggested in this study allows the physical rearrangement of the PV panel to distribute the shade on the entire PV array. MPPT, selecting suitable inverter topology, or PV panel reconfiguration enhances the performance of the PV panel. This study proposes a new shade dispersing method, novel shade dispersion (NSD). It compares the performance of the NSD method with conventional configurations (CCs). This research article models and simulates 6 × 6 PV array configurations such as Series-Parallel (SP), Total-Cross-Tide (TCT), Bridge-Linked (BL), Honey-Comb (HC), and the newly proposed NSD method under non-shading and nine different partial shading cases. The performance indices used for comparative analysis are global maximum power points, efficiency, power enhancement, open circuit voltage, short circuit current, and number of crests. The Soltech 1 STH-215-P PV module was selected in the MATLAB/Simulink environment to simulate PV array arrangements. Hardware experiments validate the performance of the NSD method.