bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Might female patients benefit more from bariatric surgery with respect to inflammation
Authors: Zhou Qing , Yan Pingping , Shi Haiming , Yan Ping
Published: August 2022

Background

Bariatric surgery is an effective method for severe obesity and its related comorbidities, in which inflammation plays a crucial role. The aim of this study was to investigate the changes of Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and C-reactive protein (CRP) in patients undergoing laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) and to explore the related factors including gender.

Methods

We retrospectively included 72 patients undergoing LSG in our hospital from 2017 to 2020. Clinical information, laboratory investigations as well as parameters derived from traditional and 2D strain echocardiography were collected. Univariate logistic model was used in myocardial performance index (MPI) and E/E′ analysis. Univariate and Multivariate logistic model were used in NLR analysis.

Results

At baseline, all patients had normal left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). The myocardial performance index (MPI) (OR = 1.218 (95%CI 1.040, 1.426); p = 0.0142) and E/E′ (OR = 1.364 (95%CI 1.124, 1.655); p = 0.0017) were independently associated with CRP. LSG led to a significant decrease in inflammatory markers (NLR, 2.4 ± 1.59 vs.1.7 ± 0.86; CRP, 5.6 ± 3.17 vs. 2.1 ± 2.35 mg/L, respectively, both p < 0.001),which was more in NLR among female than male (OR = 3.14 (95%CI 1.112, 8.870); p = 0.031).

Conclusions

The present study indicated a significant correlation between subclinical cardiac dysfunction and CRP among obese patients. Furthermore, female patients might benefit more from bariatric surgery on inflammation.
Surgical treatment of severe thoracic kyphosis and neurological deficit in a patient with Gorham–Stout syndrome: A case report and literature review
Authors: Zhang Hanwen , Han Chaofan , Pang Daming , Yong Hai , Yang Jincai , Yin Peng , Zhou Lijin
Published: August 2022

Background

Gorham–Stout syndrome is an uncommon condition with a varied clinical presentation and unclear cause that is characterised by a proliferation of lymphatic capillaries and severe regional osteolysis. Spinal and visceral involvement increases the syndrome's morbidity and mortality rates. Here, we report about a male patient with Gorham's disease who developed local kyphosis and neurological disorders due to massive osteolysis.

Case presentation

A 13-year-old male patient presented with progressive kyphosis and massive osteolysis of the thoracic vertebrae. Halo-pelvic traction and vertebral column resection osteotomy were performed to reconstruct the spine and prevent disease progression. The entire lesion was resected, and an artificial vertebra filled with allograft bone was used to achieve temporary stability. Although the patient presented with chylothorax following surgery, which required thoracic drainage, the patient did achieve a satisfying outcome.

Conclusions

Limited by the number of GSS cases with spinal involvement and chylothorax manifestations, halo-pelvic distraction as a preoperative preparation and vertebral column resection osteotomy provide a novel avenue for managing this disease.
Solar Photovoltaic Integration in Monopolar DC Networks via the GNDO Algorithm
Authors: Montoya Oscar Danilo , Gil-González Walter , Grisales-Noreña Luis Fernando
Published: August 2022

This paper focuses on minimizing the annual operative costs in monopolar DC distribution networks with the inclusion of solar photovoltaic (PV) generators while considering a planning period of 20 years. This problem is formulated through a mixed-integer nonlinear programming (MINLP) model, in which binary variables define the nodes where the PV generators must be located, and continuous variables are related to the power flow solution and the optimal sizes of the PV sources. The implementation of a master–slave optimization approach is proposed in order to address the complexity of the MINLP formulation. In the master stage, the discrete-continuous generalized normal distribution optimizer (DCGNDO) is implemented to define the nodes for the PV sources along with their sizes. The slave stage corresponds to a specialized power flow approach for monopolar DC networks known as the successive approximation power flow method, which helps determine the total energy generation at the substation terminals and its expected operative costs in the planning period. Numerical results in the 33- and 69-bus grids demonstrate the effectiveness of the DCGNDO optimizer compared to the discrete-continuous versions of the Chu and Beasley genetic algorithm and the vortex search algorithm.
Optical Nanoparticles for Biomedicine
Authors: Solé José García
Published: August 2022

A great variety of particles of different compositions and shapes with typical sizes in the range 1–200 nm have been developed during the first years of this century [...]
Prognostic Significance of Pseudotime from Texture Parameters of FDG PET/CT in Locally Advanced Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer with Tri-Modality Therapy
Authors: Lee Hyunjong , Kim Hojoong , Choi Yong , Pyo Hong , Ahn Myung-Ju , Choi Joon
Published: August 2022

Texture analysis provides image parameters from F-18 fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (FDG PET/CT). Although some parameters are associated with tumor biology and clinical features, the types and implications of these parameters are complicated. We applied pseudotime analysis, which has recently been used to estimate changes in individual sample characteristics, to texture parameters from FDG PET/CT images of locally advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients undergoing neoadjuvant concurrent chemoradiation therapy (CCRT) followed by surgery. Our subjects were 303 NSCLC patients who underwent pretherapeutic FDG PET/CT and tri-modality therapy. Texture parameters of the primary tumor were calculated from FDG PET/CT images acquired before neoadjuvant CCRT. Pseudotime analysis was performed using the PhenoPath tool. Clinicopathologic features including survival data were collected and survival analysis was performed to compare the prognostic significances of pseudotime parameters with those of conventional PET parameters. Pseudotime was successfully estimated from texture parameters. Normalized co-occurrence homogeneity, normalized co-occurrence inverse difference moment, and black–white symmetry showed positive correlations with pseudotime, short run emphasis, normalized co-occurrence dissimilarity, and short zone emphasis negative correlation. The maximum standardized uptake value (SUV) and mean SUV were not associated with overall survival. Pseudotime, metabolic tumor volume (MTV), and total lesion glycolysis (TLG) showed significant associations with overall survival. In contrast to MTV and TLG, pseudotime was an independent prognostic factor for overall survival. Various metabolic texture parameters can be integrated into a single parameter using pseudotime analysis. Pseudotime of the primary tumor, estimated from FDG PET/CT images, better predicts overall survival in locally advanced NSCLC patients treated with tri-modality therapy than conventional PET parameters.
An Examination of the Anti-Cancer Properties of Plant Cannabinoids in Preclinical Models of Mesothelioma
Authors: Colvin Emily K. , Hudson Amanda L. , Anderson Lyndsey L. , Kumar Ramyashree Prasanna , McGregor Iain S. , Howell Viive M. , Arnold Jonathon C.
Published: August 2022

Mesothelioma is an aggressive cancer with limited treatment options and a poor prognosis. Phytocannabinoids possess anti-tumour and palliative properties in multiple cancers, however their effects in mesothelioma are unknown. We investigated the anti-cancer effects and potential mechanisms of action for several phytocannabinoids in mesothelioma cell lines. A panel of 13 phytocannabinoids inhibited growth of human (MSTO and H2452) and rat (II-45) mesothelioma cells in vitro, and cannabidiol (CBD) and cannabigerol (CBG) were the most potent compounds. Treatment with CBD or CBG resulted in G0/G1 arrest, delayed entry into S phase and induced apoptosis. CBD and CBG also significantly reduced mesothelioma cell migration and invasion. These effects were supported by changes in the expression of genes associated with the cell cycle, proliferation, and cell movement following CBD or CBG treatment. Gene expression levels of CNR1, GPR55, and 5HT1A also increased with CBD or CBG treatment. However, treatment with CBD or CBG in a syngeneic orthotopic rat mesothelioma model was unable to increase survival. Our data show that cannabinoids have anti-cancer effects on mesothelioma cells in vitro and alternatives of drug delivery may be needed to enhance their effects in vivo.
Human Leucocyte Antigens as Prognostic Markers in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Dyckhoff Gerhard , Herold-Mende Christel , Scherer Sabine , Plinkert Peter K. , Warta Rolf
Published: August 2022

Background: The induction and regulation of immune responses depend on human leucocyte antigen (HLA) molecules that present peptides derived from mutated neoantigens or tumor-associated antigens to cytotoxic T cells. The natural variation of HLA molecules might differ between tumor patients and the normal population. Thus, there might be associations between the frequencies of HLA alleles and the survival of tumor patients. Methods: This issue was studied in a cohort of 84 patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs) of different localizations. The cohort was followed up for more than 10 years. HLA-A/B/C CTS-PCR-SSP typing at 1 field level from blood samples was performed, and the results were correlated with survival. Results: HLA-A*02 was the most prevalent allele in our cohort and was present in 51.1% of patients. The HLA-A*25 and HLA-C*06 alleles exhibited a significantly higher frequency in cancer patients than in the normal population of 174 blood and kidney donors (p = 0.02 and p = 0.01, respectively, Fisher’s exact test). For HLA-C*04, a negative impact on overall survival in univariate analysis (p = 0.045) and a negative, but statistically insignificant effect on survival toward poorer survival in multivariate analysis (HR: 1.82; 95% CI: 0.99–3.34, p = 0.053) were observed. In addition, HLA-A*02 was also beneficial for overall survival and progression-free survival in multivariate analysis (HR 0.54; 95% CI: 0.31–0.92; p = 0.023). Conclusion: HLA-A*02 allele expression might not only predict better survival but might also indicate superior tumor antigen presentation and, thus, help to select patients who could benefit from T-cell-dependent immunotherapies.
Over-Detection of Melanoma-Suspect Lesions by a CE-Certified Smartphone App: Performance in Comparison to Dermatologists, 2D and 3D Convolutional Neural Networks in a Prospective Data Set of 1204 Pigmented Skin Lesions Involving Patients’ Perception
Authors: Jahn Anna Sophie , Navarini Alexander Andreas , Cerminara Sara Elisa , Kostner Lisa , Huber Stephanie Marie , Kunz Michael , Maul Julia-Tatjana , Dummer Reinhard , Sommer Seraina , Neuner Anja Dominique , Levesque Mitchell Paul , Cheng Phil Fang , Maul Lara Valeska
Published: August 2022

The exponential increase in algorithm-based mobile health (mHealth) applications (apps) for melanoma screening is a reaction to a growing market. However, the performance of available apps remains to be investigated. In this prospective study, we investigated the diagnostic accuracy of a class 1 CE-certified smartphone app in melanoma risk stratification and its patient and dermatologist satisfaction. Pigmented skin lesions ≥ 3 mm and any suspicious smaller lesions were assessed by the smartphone app SkinVision® (SkinVision® B.V., Amsterdam, the Netherlands, App-Version 6.8.1), 2D FotoFinder ATBM® master (FotoFinder ATBM® Systems GmbH, Bad Birnbach, Germany, Version 3.3.1.0), 3D Vectra® WB360 (Canfield Scientific, Parsippany, NJ, USA, Version 4.7.1) total body photography (TBP) devices, and dermatologists. The high-risk score of the smartphone app was compared with the two gold standards: histological diagnosis, or if not available, the combination of dermatologists’, 2D and 3D risk assessments. A total of 1204 lesions among 114 patients (mean age 59 years; 51% females (55 patients at high-risk for developing a melanoma, 59 melanoma patients)) were included. The smartphone app’s sensitivity, specificity, and area under the receiver operating characteristics (AUROC) varied between 41.3–83.3%, 60.0–82.9%, and 0.62–0.72% according to two study-defined reference standards. Additionally, all patients and dermatologists completed a newly created questionnaire for preference and trust of screening type. The smartphone app was rated as trustworthy by 36% (20/55) of patients at high-risk for melanoma, 49% (29/59) of melanoma patients, and 8.8% (10/114) of dermatologists. Most of the patients rated the 2D TBP imaging (93% (51/55) resp. 88% (52/59)) and the 3D TBP imaging (91% (50/55) resp. 90% (53/59)) as trustworthy. A skin cancer screening by combination of dermatologist and smartphone app was favored by only 1.8% (1/55) resp. 3.4% (2/59) of the patients; no patient preferred an assessment by a smartphone app alone. The diagnostic accuracy in clinical practice was not as reliable as previously advertised and the satisfaction with smartphone apps for melanoma risk stratification was scarce. MHealth apps might be a potential medium to increase awareness for melanoma screening in the lay population, but healthcare professionals and users should be alerted to the potential harm of over-detection and poor performance. In conclusion, we suggest further robust evidence-based evaluation before including market-approved apps in self-examination for public health benefits.
Spatial and Temporal Variability in Parrotfish Assemblages on Bahamian Coral Reefs
Authors: Sherman Krista D. , Gomez Maya I. , Kemenes Thomas , Dahlgren Craig P.
Published: August 2022

Because herbivory is a critical component of resilient reefs, there is a need to investigate the dynamics of herbivorous fish assemblages over various spatiotemporal scales. During the period of 2011–2019, 483 belt transect surveys were conducted across 26 sites around New Providence to assess the status of parrotfish populations across different reefs. Non-metric multidimensional scaling revealed two distinct parrotfish assemblages around New Providence temporally, differing between 2019 and earlier surveys, and spatially between fore and patch reef zones. Temporal analysis showed a significant decrease (59%) in parrotfish densities across reef sites and significant changes in mean density over time for three species Scarus iseri, Sparisoma aurofrenatum and Sp. atomarium. Changes in the size frequency distribution of parrotfish—particularly reductions in individuals ≥31 cm in size and the complete loss of fish >40 cm across all sites were found. Interactions between reef zone and size class were significant with the greater frequencies of larger individuals (≥21 cm) driving patterns (positive associations) on forereefs. These patterns also appear to be partly driven by variability in the abundance and size composition of Sparisoma viride, which is one of the species primarily targeted by Bahamian fishers, as well as one of the most common parrotfish across reef zones.
MIGAN: Mutual-Interaction Graph Attention Network for Collaborative Filtering
Authors: Drif Ahlem , Cherifi Hocine
Published: August 2022

Many web platforms now include recommender systems. Network representation learning has been a successful approach for building these efficient recommender systems. However, learning the mutual influence of nodes in the network is challenging. Indeed, it carries collaborative signals accounting for complex user-item interactions on user decisions. For this purpose, in this paper, we develop a Mutual Interaction Graph Attention Network “MIGAN”, a new algorithm based on self-supervised representation learning on a large-scale bipartite graph (BGNN). Experimental investigation with real-world data demonstrates that MIGAN compares favorably with the baselines in terms of prediction accuracy and recommendation efficiency.
On the Water-Oil Relative Permeabilities of Southern Algerian Sandstone Rock Samples
Authors: Yahyaoui Sami , Akkal Rezki , Khodja Mohammed , Ahmed Zaid Toudert
Published: August 2022

The water–oil relative permeability behavior of different plugs from the Hassi Messaoud reservoir in south Algeria has been investigated to understand the fundamental processes of two-phase flow taking place within the macro-structure of rock samples. The experiments were conducted on cylindrical reservoir samples (plugs) using the unsteady-state method to measure the oil–water relative permeabilities due to operational simplicity. The impact of factors such as wettability, overburden pressure and rock characteristics based on the relative permeability curves have been carefully assessed. During this test, temperature was kept in the range of 95 to 100 °C and pressure was maintained at 100 bar. Large variations in relative permeability curve trends have been experimentally observed for different rock samples under investigation, which can be explained by the heterogeneous nature of the studied reservoir. Results showed an intermediate alteration of wettability and for all studied samples, and the intersection point of the relative permeability values for oil and water is less than 50%, showing that these samples exhibit oil-wet behavior. Our results also show that displacement pressure increases from 0.13 to 2 psi, promoting a gradual displacement of oil relative permeability (Kro) toward higher saturations in water (45% to 60%). The results show that the oil recovery rate at breakthrough is approximately 16% to 28% of the initial oil in place (IOP), with an average of 23%. The final oil recovery rate, obtained by moving at constant pressure, ranges from 43% to 55% of the initial oil in place (IOP), with an average value of around 49%. The forced displacement at the end of the performed tests increased the average recovery rate by about 4%. These rates vary from 46% to 61% of the initial oil in place (IOP). The residual oil saturation (Sor) varies from 33.7% to 47.8% relative to pore volume (Vp); the average is about 42%. The residual oil saturation (Sor) is about 30% to 45% Vp after forced displacement at the end of the test, the average is about 38.5%, and the relative permeabilities Krw and Kro are equal to the water saturations of 33% to 50%; the average value is about 41%.
Measuring Pollution Control and Environmental Sustainable Development in China Based on Parallel DEA Method
Authors: Feng Ying , Yang Chih-Yu , Lu Ching-Cheng , Tang Pao-Yu
Published: August 2022

The purpose of this study is to explore the impact of pollution control on industrial production efficiency in 31 provinces and cities in the Yellow River and Non-Yellow River basins in China from 2013 to 2017, using the methods of the directional distance function (hereinafter referred to as DDF) and the technology gap ratio (hereinafter referred to as TGR) in parallel, while taking the industrial production sector (labor force, total capital formation, energy consumption and industrial water consumption) and the pollution control sector (wastewater treatment funds and waste gas treatment funds) as input variables. Undesirable outputs (total wastewater discharge, lead, SO2 and smoke and dust in wastewater) and an ideal output variable (industrial output value) are taken as output variables. It is found that the total efficiency of DDF in the Non-Yellow River Basin is 0.9793, which is slightly better than 0.9688 in the Yellow River Basin. Among the 17 provinces and cities with a total efficiency of 1, only Shandong and Sichuan are located in the Yellow River Basin. The TGR values of 31 provinces, cities and administrative regions are less than 1, and the average TGR value of the Yellow River Basin is 0.3825, which is lower than the average TGR value of the Non-Yellow River Basin of 0.5234. We can start by improving the allocation of manpower and capital, implementing the use of pollution prevention and control funds, improving the technical level of industrial production, improving pollutant emission, and increasing output value to improve overall efficiency performance. This study uses the parallel method, taking the industrial production department and the pollution control department as inputs, to objectively evaluate the changes in industrial production efficiency and technology gap in the Yellow River and Non-Yellow River basins, which is conducive to mastering the situation of pollution control and industrial production efficiency, and provides the reference for SDG-6- and SDG-9-related policy making.
Big-Data Analysis and Machine Learning Based on Oil Pollution Remediation Cases from CERCLA Database
Authors: Li Hangyu , Zhou Ze , Long Tao , Wei Yao , Xu Jianchun , Liu Shuyang , Wang Xiaopu
Published: August 2022

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Superfund—the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) database—has collected and built an open-source database based on nearly 2000 US soil remediation cases since 1980, providing detailed information and references for researchers worldwide to carry out remediation work. However, the cases were relatively independent to each other, so the whole database lacks systematicness and instructiveness to some extent. In this study, the basic features of all 144 soil remediation projects in four major oil-producing states (California, Texas, Oklahoma and Alaska) were extracted from the CERCLA database and the correlations among the pollutant species, pollutant site characteristics and selection of remediation methods were analyzed using traditional and machine learning techniques. The Decision Tree Classifier was selected as the machine learning model. The results showed that the growth of new contaminated sites has slowed down in recent years; physical remediation was the most commonly used method, and the probability of its application is more than 80%. The presence of benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene and xylene (BTEX) substances and the geographical location of the site were the two most influential factors in the choice of remediation method for a specific site; the maximum weights of these two features reaches 0.304 and 0.288.
Growth and Distribution of Coal-Measure Source Rocks in Mixed Platform: A Case Study of Carboniferous in Bamai Area, Southwest Tarim Basin, China
Authors: Su Siyu , Zhao Yongqiang , Pu Renhai , Chen Shuo , Ji Tianyu , Yao Wei
Published: August 2022

Coal-measure source rocks are generally developed in marsh facies under a humid climate and are rarely reported in a carbonate platform or a mixed platform. Carboniferous seawater intruded from west to east in the Tarim Basin, and mixed platform deposits of interbedded mudstone and carbonate developed in the southwest of the basin. In recent years, with the deepening of the exploration, nearly 20 m coal seams and carbonaceous mudstone source rocks have been found in the Carboniferous lagoon’s tidal-flat background. The hydrocarbon generation potential, development, and distribution of these coal-measure source rocks have become an important issue for oil and gas exploration. Coal seams and carbonaceous mudstones were found in the Carboniferous formation of wells BT5, BT10, and Lx2. The hydrocarbon prospect, development, and distribution characteristics of these coal formations have become an important research topic. The authors conducted organic geochemical tests and analyses of core and samples drill cuttings from multiple wells in the study area, combined with research focused on the identification and distribution of coal seams, dark mudstones, and depositional facies via logging cross plots of different lithology and 3D seismic inversion. The results show that coal-measure source rocks in the BT5 well are related to the set of delta-lagoon sedimentary systems widely developed in the Carboniferous Karashayi Formation. The maximum cumulative thickness of coal-measure source rocks is about 20 m, with total organic carbon (TOC) contents of 0.15–60%, kerogen types II2-III, and vitrinite reflectance (Ro) values of 0.78–1.65%. The rocks have generally low maturity in the northwestern area and high maturity in the southeastern area, and the maturity changes as the burial depth changes. The effective hydrocarbon source rocks such as coal, carbonaceous mudstone, and dark mudstone all show acoustic time (AC) greater than 300 µs/m, and density (DEN) less than 2.3 g/cm3, but possess different gamma ray (GR) values. The GR value is less than 75 API for coal, between 75–100 API for carbonaceous mudstone, and greater than 100 API for dark mudstones. The distribution of source rocks can be identified in the area between the wells according to a 3D seismic inversion impedance (IMP) of less than 7333 m/s·g/cm3. The development and controlled factors of coal-measure source rocks of delta facies in the mixed platform have a significant role for oil and gas exploration of Upper Paleozoic in this area. The coal measure and sandstones of delta in the Carboniferous are expected to form self-generation and self-storage pools in this area.
Synthesis and Mechanical Properties of Polyacrylamide Gel Doped with Graphene Oxide
Authors: Zhang Hai-Peng , Cao Jing-Jing , Jiang Wen-Bing , Yang Yu-Qi , Zhu Bo-Yuan , Liu Xiao-Yu , Wu Yang , Sun Xin , Essouma Ariane Felicite Bibiche Essouma , Liu Jian , Xing Ting-Yan
Published: August 2022

Polyacrylamide (PAM)/polyethyleneimine (PEI) gels doped with graphene oxide (GO) were prepared. Their structure and properties were systematically studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transition infrared spectrum (FT-IR), Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and rheological experiments. The results showed that the graphene oxide (GO) nanosheets were significantly involved in the cross-linking reaction between the main agent (PAM) and the cross-linker (PEI), serving as multi-functional cross-linker and effective reinforcing nanofillers. Increasing the main agent and cross-linker content, the strength of gels was enhanced effectively. The GO could effectively adjust the strength and the gelation time to exhibit characteristics of weak gel, thanks to the improved three-dimensional honeycombed structure with controllable pore size. The DSC confirmed that the PAM/PEI/GO gel exhibited excellent thermal stability and did not dehydrate above 170 °C. This work provides theoretical support for further optimization of polyacrylamide gel used in ultra-deep and high-temperature reservoirs for water control.
Current CO2 Capture and Storage Trends in Europe in a View of Social Knowledge and Acceptance. A Short Review
Authors: Koukouzas Nikolaos , Christopoulou Marina , Giannakopoulou Panagiota P. , Rogkala Aikaterini , Gianni Eleni , Karkalis Christos , Pyrgaki Konstantina , Krassakis Pavlos , Koutsovitis Petros , Panagiotaras Dionisios , Petrounias Petros
Published: August 2022

Carbon dioxide (CO2) has reached a higher level of emissions in the last decades, and as it is widely known, CO2 is responsible for numerous environmental problems, such as climate change. Thus, there is a great need for the application of CO2 capture and storage, as well as of CO2 utilization technologies (CCUS). This review article focuses on summarizing the current CCUS state-of-the-art methods used in Europe. Special emphasis has been given to mineralization methods/technologies, especially in basalts and sandstones, which are considered to be suitable for CO2 mineralization. Furthermore, a questionnaire survey was also carried out in order to investigate how informed about CO2 issues European citizens are, as well as whether their background is relative to their positive or negative opinion about the establishment of CCUS technologies in their countries. In addition, social acceptance by the community requires contact with citizens and stakeholders, as well as ensuring mutual trust through open communication and the opportunity to participate as early as possible in the development of actions and projects related to CO2 capture and storage, at all appropriate levels of government internationally, as citizens need to understand the benefits from such new technologies, from the local to the international level.
Energy Efficiency Evaluation and Revenue Distribution of DC Power Distribution Systems in Nearly Zero Energy Buildings
Authors: Jiang Keteng , Li Haibo , Ye Xi , Lei Yi , Lao Keng-Weng , Zhang Shuqing , Hu Xianfa
Published: August 2022

With the advantage of integrating distributed energy, storage and DC load with high efficiency, the DC distribution network recently attracted wide attention in the field of nearly zero energy buildings. Considering the large number of buildings and the enormous energy-saving potential, the distribution form and the revenue distribution are key factors affecting energy efficiency and operational economy. Aiming at the characteristics of AC and DC distribution topologies in nearly zero energy buildings, an energy efficiency evaluation method is proposed based on time-sequential power flow simulation, where the piecewise linear efficiency function of converters and dynamic line power loss model are established. Based on a DC distribution demonstration project, an AC power distribution system with the same boundary conditions is designed. The results show that the efficiency of DC distribution topology is about 6% higher than the AC system, while the efficiency advantage in office, hotel, commercial, educational and residential buildings in Beijing, Shenzhen and Shanghai varies from 0.6–4.96%, which shows a high correlation with the proportion of a high-power load, with Pearson correlation coefficient of 0.794. With the increase of DC load ratio and distributed power supply access capacity, the efficiency of the system will be improved accordingly. On the basis of this, a method to equalize DC distribution income in the nearly zero energy buildings power market is proposed. In addition, 15 typical scenarios of different cities were selected to evaluate efficiency and influencing factors. Finally, assessing the multi-stakeholder impact of DC retrofitting to balance the revenue generated by the DC distribution model suggests that transport costs should be raised by 8.2–13.1% to balance revenue with the equipment prices decreased by about 0.1 yuan/W.
Variable Incremental Controller of Permanent-Magnet Synchronous Motor for Voltage-Based Flux-Weakening Control
Authors: Lee Hyunjae , Lee Gunbok , Kim Gildong , Shon Jingeun
Published: August 2022

This study presents a variable incremental controller for flux-weakening control in the high-speed operation area of a permanent-magnetic synchronous motor (PMSM). In general, voltage-based flux-weakening control utilizes a reference voltage and a PI controller to generate a flux component current. In this paper, the voltage-based flux-weakening control is performed using the variable incremental controller instead of the PI controller. The variable incremental controller can control the flux component current using only the maximum speed and maximum current of the motor. A method for properly setting an appropriate variable incremental controller using acceleration is additionally presented. A variable incremental controller is applied and, accordingly, the overshoot of the motor speed can be reduced and the speed error of the motor can be minimized by reducing the difference between the actual motor and targeted accelerations. This method can simplify the design of a controller that utilizes flux-weakening control and can be applied to railroad cars whose acceleration does not alter frequently to increase the effect of motor control.
Double Impedance-Substitution Control of DFIG Based Wind Energy Conversion System
Authors: Zhang Yu , Liu Jiahong , Zhou Meilan , Li Chen , Lv Yanling
Published: August 2022

In a doubly-fed induction generator (DFIG)-based wind energy conversion system (WECS), when the grid voltage sags severely, the rotor side converter (RSC) suffers from overvoltage and overcurrent owing to the large electromotive force (EMF). To ensure that the converter operates within a safe range when grid faults occur, this paper proposes a double impedance-substitution control (DISC) strategy to improve the system’s low-voltage ride through (LVRT) capability. When the grid voltage sag is detected, the grid side converter (GSC) and RSC are connected in parallel to the rotor circuit by changing the topology of the system. In the new topology, GSC and RSC are equivalent to inductive impedance by controlling, which can not only suppress the overvoltage and overcurrent at the rotor side, but also effectively reduce the torque ripple. Additionally, the DISC strategy can provide reactive power support to the grid during LVRT. Finally, the simulation results show that the DISC strategy can maintain the current flowing through the RSC within ±1 p.u., and compared with the existing control strategy, the effectiveness of the proposed method was further demonstrated.
Spatio-Temporal Dynamic Evolution and Simulation of Dike-Pond Landscape and Ecosystem Service Value Based on MCE-CA-Markov: A Case Study of Shunde, Foshan
Authors: Wang Chunxiao , Huang Shuyu , Wang Junjie
Published: August 2022

Dike-pond is a unique agricultural landscape type in the Pearl River Delta region of China, which has significance for the maintenance of ecological balance. In recent years, urbanization in China has developed rapidly, and dike-ponds have been extensively occupied, reducing their ecological regulation ability and threatening regional ecological security. Taking the Shunde District of Foshan as an example, based on remote sensing images from 1979 to 2020, using a CA-Markov model with the multi-criteria evaluation method (MCE), firstly the spatial and temporal evolution characteristics of the dike-pond landscape pattern were analyzed, then the dike-pond landscape in 2030 was simulated. At last, the spatio-temporal evolution of ecosystem service value (ESV) in Shunde was visualized. The results show that: (1) In the past four decades, the landscape types in Shunde have changed significantly. This mainly manifested as dike-pond, cultivated land, and forest land transforming into construction land. (2) At the class level, the degree of dike-pond landscape fragmentation increased, and the degree of dominance and agglomeration decreased. At the landscape level, the regional degree of dominance showed an upward trend, whereas the overall landscape showed an unbalanced trend distribution. It is predicted that from 2020 to 2030, the landscape pattern of dike-pond will not change significantly, and the overall landscape richness will increase. (3) The ESV in Shunde decreased continuously from 1979 to 2020. The dike-pond ESV accounts for the largest proportion and is the main landscape type that maintains ecological balance. It is predicted that the ESV decline will slow in the future. (4) The optimized MCE-CA-Markov model has greater precision and produces better simulations. The dike-pond development model proposed in this study can provide a scientific basis for delimiting the scope of regional ecological protection and sustainable development.
Spatiotemporal Distribution Patterns of Climbers along an Abiotic Gradient in Jhelum District, Punjab, Pakistan
Authors: Majeed Muhammad , Lu Linlin , Haq Sheikh Marifatul , Waheed Muhammad , Sahito Hakim Ali , Fatima Sammer , Aziz Robina , Bussmann Rainer W. , Tariq Aqil , Ullah Israr , Aslam Muhammad
Published: August 2022

Climber–abiotic parameter interactions can have important ramifications for ecosystem’s functions and community dynamics, but the extent to which these abiotic factors influence the spatial distributions of climber communities in the western Himalayas is unknown. The purpose of this study was to examine the taxonomic diversity, richness, and distribution patterns of climbers in relation to abiotic variables in the Jhelum District. The data were collected from 120 random transects between 2019 and 2021, from 360 sites within triplet quadrats (1080 quadrats), and classification and ordination analyses were used to categorize the sample transects. A total of 38 climber species belonging to 25 genera and 11 families were recorded from the study area. The Convolvulaceae were the dominant family (26.32%), followed by the Apocynaceae (21.05%), and Leguminosae (15.79%). The majority of the climbers were herbaceous in nature (71.05%), followed by woody (23.68%). Based on the relative density, the most dominant species was Vicia sativa (12.74). The majority of the species flowered during the months of March–April (28.04%), followed by August–September (26.31%). Abiotic factors have a significant influence on the distribution pattern and structure of climbers in the study area. The results show that the climbers react to the biotic environment in different ways. The findings will serve as the foundation for future botanical inventories and will be crucial for understanding the biological, ecological, and economic value of climbers in forest ecosystems. This will help forest management, conservation, and ecological restoration in the Himalayas.
Effects of Litter Input on Temperature Sensitivity of Soil Organic Carbon Mineralization along a Forest Elevation Gradient
Authors: Wei Junlan , Zhang Qianqian , Wang Qingkui , Tian Peng
Published: August 2022

The mineralization of soil organic carbon (SOC) is generally stimulated under global warming, known as temperature sensitivity (Q10), which is critical for predicting terrestrial C-climate feedback. However, how Q10 varies in different elevations, particularly with litter input, constraining the establishment of accurate models remains poorly understood. Here, the soil samples of three elevations (750, 950, and 1150 m) were collected from the transition zone of subtropical and warm temperate forests in China for incubation. Soils were incubated with and without 13C-labeled Cunninghamia lanceolata litter at 15 °C and 17.4 °C for 97 days. Incubation process was divided into two stages (0–37 days and 38–97 days) according to the dynamics of CO2 emission. The results showed that Q10 did not change significantly with elevation in the first stage, but Q10 at 950 m was significantly higher than that at 1150 m in the second stage. The variations in Q10 with elevation were regulated by pH in the first stage, while soil C/N was the primary factors that regulated Q10 in the second stage. Q10 showed no response to litter input at 750 m, while it decreased at 950 m in both stages. Following litter input, Q10 at 1150 m increased in the first stage but kept stable in the second stage. The change in Q10 with litter input was mainly affected by the restriction of soil P availability. Overall, our findings emphasized the importance of vertical spatial heterogeneity of Q10 of SOC mineralization in order to improve the prediction accuracy of C dynamics in terrestrial ecosystems.
Molecular Factors and Mechanisms Driving Multidrug Resistance in Uropathogenic Escherichia coli—An Update
Authors: Rozwadowski Marcin , Gawel Damian
Published: August 2022

The rapid emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria indisputably constitutes a major global health problem. Pathogenic Escherichia coli are listed among the most critical group of bacteria that require fast development of new antibiotics and innovative treatment strategies. Among harmful extraintestinal Enterobacteriaceae strains, uropathogenic E. coli (UPEC) pose a significant health threat. UPEC are considered the major causative factor of urinary tract infection (UTI), the second-most commonly diagnosed infectious disease in humans worldwide. UTI treatment places a substantial financial burden on healthcare systems. Most importantly, the misuse of antibiotics during treatment has caused selection of strains with the ability to acquire MDR via miscellaneous mechanisms resulting in gaining resistance against many commonly prescribed antibiotics like ampicillin, gentamicin, cotrimoxazole and quinolones. Mobile genetic elements (MGEs) such as transposons, integrons and conjugative plasmids are the major drivers in spreading resistance genes in UPEC. The co-occurrence of various bacterial evasion strategies involving MGEs and the SOS stress response system requires further research and can potentially lead to the discovery of new, much-awaited therapeutic targets. Here, we analyzed and summarized recent discoveries regarding the role, mechanisms, and perspectives of MDR in the pathogenicity of UPEC.
Quality of Life in Pediatric Patients with Continent Urinary Diversion—A Single Center Experience
Authors: Ciongradi Carmen Iulia , Benchia Diana , Stupu Cătălina Alexandra , Iliescu Halițchi Codruța Olimpiada , Sârbu Ioan
Published: August 2022

Background and Objectives: The advancement of surgical strategies in various types of urological conditions has resulted in improved functional outcomes, but the issues of patient perception and life quality remain difficult to assess, particularly in pediatric populations. We aimed to critically analyze the outcomes of urinary continent diversion in pediatric patients treated in our institution for various bladder conditions. Materials and Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study, reviewing the records of patients treated for bladder evacuation problems between 2003 and 2014, and analyzing the data of those with continent urinary diversion. We used two types of questionnaires to assess the impact on life quality: the Qualiveen-30 and the SF-36 Health Survey. Results: The study included one hundred thirty-four patients with bladder conditions, and eight underwent urinary diversion, at a median age of 6.5 years. Seven of them, aged 10–23 years, completed questionnaires, with all seven scoring high on physical functioning scale but low on the social functioning scale. Conclusions: Continent urinary diversion remains the treatment of choice in well selected patients, but the results must be considered both in terms of functional outcomes and the impact on these patients’ emotional and mental health.
The Situation of Hazardous Materials Accidents during Road Transportation in China from 2013 to 2019
Authors: Zhu Shengxue , Zhang Shiwen , Lang Hong , Jiang Chenming , Xing Yingying
Published: August 2022

The safety situation of hazardous materials (hazmat) accidents during road transportation in China is severe and very serious accidents occurred frequently. Such accidents not only have a huge impact on the environment but also have serious consequences for people and the economy, such as fires and explosions. Therefore, it is necessary to understand the characteristics and laws of road transport accidents of hazmat systematically. This paper investigated 2777 hazmat transportation accidents in China from 2013 to 2019 to identify the characteristics, consequences, and causes of the accident. The results show that August (10.05%) and December (9.76%) are the peak periods of hazmat transportation accidents, while most hazmat transportation accidents occurred in the early morning (6:00–9:00 a.m.) and at noon (9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.) hours. For the geographical location, the accidents mainly occurred in the east China (34.35%) and the northwest China areas (14.87%). The main types of hazmat transportation accidents were rollover (35.36%), rear-end (22.58%), and collision (14.87%), where the probability of a major leak was high. The most common hazmat transportation accidents involve gas (17.79%), flammable liquid (56.07%), and corrosive substance (12.28%). The most common consequences of the hazmat transportation accidents were leakage (80.34%), followed by fire release (8.32%) and explosion release (2.34%). Human factor (26.74%) is the main cause of hazmat transportation accidents. These findings could help hazmat transportation managers and planners develop appropriate measures for improving hazmat transportation safety.
Tobacco Screening Practices and Perceived Barriers to Offering Tobacco Cessation Services among Texas Health Care Centers Providing Behavioral Health Treatment
Authors: Siddiqi Ammar D. , Britton Maggie , Chen Tzuan A. , Carter Brian J. , Wang Carol , Martinez Leal Isabel , Rogova Anastasia , Kyburz Bryce , Williams Teresa , Patel Mayuri , Reitzel Lorraine R.
Published: August 2022

Tobacco use, and thus tobacco-related morbidity, is elevated amongst patients with behavioral health treatment needs. Consequently, it is important that centers providing health care to this group mandate providers’ use of tobacco screenings to inform the need for tobacco use disorder intervention. This study examined the prevalence of mandated tobacco screenings in 80 centers providing health care to Texans with behavioral health needs, examined key factors that could enhance screening conduct, and delineated providers’ perceived barriers to tobacco use intervention provision. The results indicated that 80% of surveyed centers mandated tobacco use screenings; those that did were significantly more likely than those that did not to have a hard stop for tobacco use status in health records and were marginally more likely to make training on tobacco screening available to providers. The most widespread barriers to tobacco use disorder care provision were relative perceived importance of competing diagnoses, lack of community resources to refer patients, perceived lack of time, lack of provider knowledge or confidence, and belief that patients do not comply with cessation treatment. Overall, the results suggest that there are opportunities for centers providing care to Texans with behavioral health needs to bolster their tobacco screening and intervention capacity to better address tobacco-related health disparities in this group. Health care centers can support their providers to intervene in tobacco use by mandating screenings, streamlining clinical workflows with hard stops in patient records, and educating providers about the importance of treating tobacco with brief evidence-based intervention strategies while providing accurate information about patients’ interest in quitting and providers’ potential impacts on a successful quit attempt.
How Do Patients Understand Questions about Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms? A Qualitative Study of Problems in Completing Urological Questionnaires
Authors: Schlatmann Florine W. M. , van Balken Michael R. , de Winter Andrea F. , de Jong Igle-Jan , Jansen Carel J. M.
Published: August 2022

Lower urinary tract symptoms are common complaints in ageing people. For a urological evaluation of such complaints in men, the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) is used worldwide. Previous quantitative studies have revealed serious problems in completing this questionnaire. In order to gain insight into the nature and causes of these problems, we conducted a qualitative study. Not only the purely verbal IPSS was studied but also two alternatives, including pictograms: the Visual Prostate Symptom Score (VPSS) and the Score Visuel Prostatique en Image (SVPI). Men aged 40 years and over with an inadequate level of health literacy (IHL; n = 18) or an adequate level of health literacy (AHL; n = 47) participated. Each participant filled out one of the three questionnaires while thinking aloud. The analysis of their utterances revealed problems in both health literacy groups with form-filling tasks and subtasks for all three questionnaires. Most noticeable were the problems with the IPSS; the terminology and layout of this form led to difficulties. In the VPSS and SVPI, the pictograms sometimes raised problems. As in previous research on form-filling behavior, an overestimation by form designers of form fillers’ knowledge and skills seems to be an important explanation for the problems observed.