bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
BIBR1532 inhibits proliferation and enhances apoptosis in multiple myeloma cells by reducing telomerase activity
Authors: Zhang Yuefeng , Yang Xinxin , Zhou Hangqun , Yao Guoli , Zhou Li , Qian Chunyan
Published: November 2023

Background

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a rare haematological disorder with few therapeutic options. BIBR1532, a telomerase inhibitor, is widely used in cancer treatment and has promising outcomes. In this study, we investigated the efficacy and mechanism of action of BIBR1532 in MM.

Methods

K562 and MEG-01 cells were cultured with BIBR1532 at different concentrations. After 24 and 48 h, cell survival was analyzed. Next, these cells were cultured with 25 and 50 µM BIBR1532 for 48 h, then, cell proliferation, apoptosis, and the expression of the telomerase activity related markers were tested by 5-Ethynyl-2′-deoxyuridine (EdU) staining, flow cytometric analysis, western blot and quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), respectively. Expression of Bcl-xL, Bad, Survivin, phosphorylation of PI3K, AKT, mTOR, ERK1/2, and MAPK were tested via western blotting. Further experiments were conducted to evaluate the synergistic effects of BIBR1532 and doxorubicin (Dox) or bortezomib (Bor).

Results

BIBR1532 inhibited K562 and MEG-01 cell survival in a dose- and time-dependent manner. In addition, BIBR1532 hindered cell proliferation while promoting apoptosis, and this effect was enhanced by increasing the BIBR1532 concentration. Moreover, BIBR1532 inhibited TERT and c-MYC expression, PI3K, AKT, mTOR phosphorylation, and facilitated ERK1/2 and MAPK phosphorylation. Additionally, BIBR1532 combined with Dox or Bor showed synergistic effects in MM treatment.

Conclusion

BIBR1532 inhibits proliferation and promotes apoptosis in MM cells by inhibiting telomerase activity. Additionally, BIBR1532 combined with Dox or Bor exhibited synergistic effects, indicating that BIBR1532 may be a novel medicine for the treatment of MM.
Changes in Fish Flakes Prepared from Pangas (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus) Mince during Storage
Authors: Shikha Fatema Hoque , Hossain Md. Ismail , Shiropa Naima Tasnim , Hasan Muhammad Mehedi , Jahan Mst. Prianka , Binti Nafis Tasneem
Published: November 2023

Aims: This study was conducted to prepare fish flakes using Pangas (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus) mince with wheat flour and other ingredients and to determine the sensory and physicochemical changes of fish flakes during storage.

Place and Duration of Study: Fish Processing and quality control laboratory of the department of Fisheries Technology, Faculty of Fisheries, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh. Study duration was from June 2021-July 2022.

Methodology: Initially, fish flakes were prepared using 30%, 40% and 50% fish mince with other ingredients. Among the samples, fish flakes containing 50% fish mince (S3N) gained the highest score in the conducted panel test. During the storage of 9 months at room temperature (28° to 32°C) in polythene zipper packets, different properties of S3N was analyzed at 15- and 30-days of intervals.

Results: The changes in proximate composition of the sample during storage indicated that only minor alterations occurred in fish flakes. During this study period no remarkable changes observed in the color, flavor, texture of fish flakes. Mold growth on fish flakes samples was not found.

Conclusion:  The findings of this study can be concluded as, popular snack item like fish flakes can be prepared using pangas fish mince by incorporating with other ingredients which can be stored at room temperature (28° to 32°C) in polythene zipper packets for 270 days without any major changes in compositional and consumption quality.
Complicated Appendicitis-An Update : A Narrative Review
Authors: Kumar H, R.  , Soma M.  , Saw M. O.
Published: November 2023

Complicated Appendicitis is defined as perforated appendicitis with abscess or mass formation. Its diagnosis and management have been controversial with no consensus on its definition and treatment algorithm. The treatment was initially conservative management, but the current trend is immediate appendectomy by the laparoscopic method. Other areas of controversy include the need for interval appendectomy and the role of percutaneous drainage of appendicular abscess. We have conducted this review article to investigate the definition, diagnosis, and treatment of complicated appendicitis.
Hygienic Quality of Mbala-pinda, a Fermented Food Formulated from Local Products of Congo
Authors: Ryssie Miantoko Zébita Gedellevie , Michel Elenga , Aimé Lebonguy Augustin , Stève Moulengo Massamba , Vital Mananga
Published: November 2023

This study is part of the framework for the food safety of locally consumed products in Congo. The aim was to study the hygienic quality of Mbala-pinda, a food made from fermented cassava paste and peanut paste, formulated with maize, taro, and plantain banana. To this end, five (5) types of Mbala-pinda were developed in the laboratory by modifying the traditional process and then analyzed by enumeration of total aerobic mesophilic flora, total and fecal coliforms, Staphylococcus aureus, yeasts and molds using the serial dilution technique. (NF.V 08-051-Feb. (1999), AFNOR V 08 013 and directive 2005/2073/EC). The presence of Salmonella and Shigella was also checked on specific SS medium after enrichment of the cultures. The results showed a microbial load in FMAT of 3.5. 10-3, 3.1. 10-4 and 1.5. 10-3 CFU/g respectively for samples E1, E2 and E5. This microbial load is below the threshold set by Directive 106 While samples E3 and E4 have zero FMAT load. All Mbala-pinda samples were free of bacteria from the total and faecal coliform groups, Staphylococcus aureus species, yeasts and molds, as well as Salmonella and Shigella. Thus, the formulated Mbala-pinda has a satisfactory hygienic quality. It is therefore important to promote this food by popularizing it among the population.
Energy Consumption in Wheat Crop Production in Central Region of Uttar Pradesh, India
Authors: Chaudhari Anand , Moses Sheen C.
Published: November 2023

The research investigated energy usage in the production of wheat crops in the central region of Uttar Pradesh, India among different groups of farmers. The study involved surveying a total of 250 farmers from 59 villages, gathering data about various inputs utilized in wheat crop cultivation during the period of 2020-22. Using standard energy equivalents, the inputs required for wheat production were quantified in terms of energy. The findings indicated that the overall energy input for wheat production in the region amounted to 20497.1 MJ/ha, with fertilizers, fuel, and seeds contributing to 85% of this energy consumption. Specifically, fertilizers represented 50.2% of the total energy, followed by fuel at 22.6%. The study also revealed that larger and medium-scale farmers utilized more energy compared to those with smaller landholdings, but they also achieved higher grain yields. Among different farming operations, energy usage was highest in fertilizer application, followed by tillage. The average output-to-input energy ratio was calculated at 3.02. Additionally, this ratio differed among farmer categories: 3.26 for large farmers, 3.15 for medium farmers, 3.14 for semi-medium farmers, 3.11 for small farmers, and 2.95 for marginal category farmers. In conclusion, the research established a positive correlation between energy consumption and crop yield.
Effect of Herbigation on Weed Control and Yield of Drip Irrigated Cotton
Authors: Dharani M. , Rathika S. , Avudaithai S. , Baskar M. , Meena S. , Ramesh T.
Published: November 2023

A field experiment was conducted during Summer, 2023 at Anbil Dharmalingam Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tiruchirappalli to study the effect of herbigation on weed control and yield of drip irrigated cotton. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with nine treatments and replicated thrice. The treatments consisted of herbigation of pre emergence (PE) herbicides (Pendimethalin 1.0 kg ha-1 and Oxyfluorfen 0.2 kg  ha-1) combined with hand weeding at 45 DAS or manual spray or herbigation of post emergence (PoE) herbicide (Pyrithiobac Sodium + Quizalofop Ethyl 75 g ha-1 on 25 DAS) compared with recommended practice of manual spray of PE pendimethalin 1.0 kg ha-1 + HW at 45 DAS, HW twice on 20 and 40 DAS and unweeded control. The results revealed that among the different weed management practices manual spray of PE pendimethalin 1.0 kg ha-1 + HW at 45 DAS registered significantly lower total weed density (12.63 m-2), total weed dry weight (8.23 g m-2) and higher weed control efficiency (77%) at 20 DAS. This was followed by herbigation of PE pendimethalin 1.0 kg ha-1 + manual spray of PoE pyrithiobac sodium + quizalofop ethyl 75 g ha-1 on 25 DAS. Among the herbigation treatments, herbigation of PE pendimethalin 1.0 kg ha-1 + manual spray of PoE pyrithiobac sodium + quizalofop ethyl 75 g ha-1 on 25 DAS obtained lower total weed density (12.13 m-2), total weed dry weight (9.19 g m-2) and higher WCE (86%) at 40 DAS. This was followed by herbigation of PE oxyfluorfen 0.2 kg ha-1 + manual spray of PoE pyrithiobac sodium + quizalofop ethyl 75 g ha-1 on 25 DAS. At 60 DAS, application of manual spray of PE pendimethalin 1.0 kg ha-1 + HW at 45 DAS recorded lower total weed density (18.07 m-2), total weed dry weight (16.03 g m-2) and higher weed control efficiency (85%). However, this was comparable with herbigation of PE pendimethalin 1.0 kg ha-1 + manual spray of PoE pyrithiobac sodium + quizalofop ethyl 75 g ha-1 on 25 DAS and HW on 20 and 40 DAS. The highest seed cotton yield (2109 kg ha-1) was obtained with manual spray of PE pendimethalin 1.0 kg ha-1 + HW at 45 DAS and it was on par with herbigation of PE pendimethalin 1.0 kg ha-1 + manual spray of PoE pyrithiobac sodium + quizalofop ethyl 75 g ha-1 on 25 DAS and HW on 20 and 40 DAS. Hence, considering the labour scarcity, herbigation of PE pendimethalin1.0 kg ha-1 on 3 DAS followed by manual spray of PoE pyrithiobac sodium + quizalofop ethyl 75 g ha-1 on 25 DAS could be recommended for better weed control in drip irrigated cotton.
Cash Flow Management and Firm Performance: Moderating Effect of Corporate Governance Mechanism in the Era of Disruption in Emerging Economy
Authors: Emeka Omaliko , Kelvin Mordi , Okpala, Ngozi. E.
Published: November 2023

The moderating effect of corporate governance mechanism on the relationship between cash flow management and performance of listed manufacturing firms in the era of disruption in Nigeria was empirically investigated in this study. Operating, financing, and investing activities were used as proxies for cash flow management. Net assets per share (NAPS) was used to measure firm performance while board independence was used as a proxy for the corporate governance mechanism (moderating variable). Panel least squares regression model operated with E-View 12 was utilized to perform the statistical test of parameter estimates, and six hypotheses were formulated to direct the investigation. Ex Post Facto design was used, and the data for the study was collected from the published annual financial reports and accounts of companies listed on the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX) under the consumer goods sector, industrial goods sector, and oil and gas sector. The results of the study show that operating activities (OA) significantly affect firm performance (NAPS) at 5% significant level. Furthermore, it was discovered that, at 1% significant level, financing activities (FA) has a positive and significant effect on firm performance, whereas investing activities (FA) has the same effect on firm performance in Nigeria. Also, it was noted that, at 1-5% significant level, corporate governance mechanism (board independence) moderated the effect of cash flow management on firm performance in Nigeria. Thus, the study concludes that in this disruptive era in Nigeria, firms’ performance is determined by their ability to manage their cash flow effectively. Moreover, strong corporate governance practices ensure the success of the company. In light of the study's findings, the study recommends that businesses should review their approaches to managing cash flow so that they can produce enough cash to cover both their operating and investing needs. On the other hand, net cash flow from financing activities ought to be preserved because it has a substantial impact on the financial results of the Nigerian listed companies.
Potential anticancer activity of chemically characterized extract of Olea europaea (Olive) leaves
Authors: Mir Najibullah Shehla Nasar , Ahamad Javed , Sultana Shahnaz , Uthirapathy Subasini
Published: November 2023

Olea europaea Linn. (Olive) is considered as essential component of Mediterranean diets. Olive leaves, fruits, and oil are traditionally known for several health benefits including diabetes, cardiac complications, cancer, etc. The objective of the present study is to determine the anticancer potential of chemically characterized O. europaea extract in MTT assay and EB/AO double staining method using Human lung cancer cell lines (A549). The chemical constituents present in the ethyl acetate extract of O. europaea leaves were characterized by GC-MS and its cytotoxic activity was assessed by MTT assay and EB/AO double staining method. The GC-MS analysis identified 63 chemical constituents, and neophytadiene (21.80%), zingiberenol (12.36%), and allohimachalol (5.49%) was found as major chemical constituents in ethyl acetate extract of O. europaea leaves. O. europaea produces a time and dose-dependent inhibition of cell proliferation of A549 cell lines. The cell viability of A549 cell lines after 24 hrs treatment with O. europaea ranged from 97.96±3.44 to 18.95±2.14 % for a concentration range of 0.5-500 μg/mL, respectively, with IC50 value of 21.91±1.8 μg/mL. EB/AO double staining shows significant apoptosis in early and late apoptotic, and necrotic cells with increased volume and showed uneven orange-red fluorescence at their periphery. The study outcome shows that O. europaea extract significantly inhibited cell proliferation and apoptosis in human lung cancer (A549) cell lines, and it also explores the chemical composition of O. europaea leaves extract.

Keywords: Apoptosis, A549 cell lines, Cancer, GC-MS, MTT assay, Olea europea, Olive.
A study of the effects of green stem syndrome on some quality parameters in soybean and the possibility of early detection
Authors: Vurarak Yasemin , Cubukcu Pinar , Korhan Sahar Ahmet , Aylin Oluk Celile
Published: November 2023

Green stem syndrome is one of the major problems encountered in soybean production in the world because it makes harvesting with a combine harvester difficult. Although the prevalence of the green stem syndrome Turkey is unknown, in recent years it has started to be observed frequently. Leaf color characters in the growing stages of some soybean varieties have been determined according to varieties in this study. Color changes in the leaves from V3 to R8 phase were monitored using L *, a *, b * color scale. Possibility of detecting changes in leaf color before the R8 stage was studied. Some quality parameters have been evaluated in seed samples obtained from plants with and without symptoms in the R8 stage. It was determined that the germination rate of the seeds obtained from the plants with the syndrome decreased by 61.4% on average compared to those from healthy plants. Furthermore, compared to non-symptomatic seeds, symptomatic seeds were larger, had a lower fat ratio, lower palmitic and linoleic fatty acid values, and higher oleic fatty acid values. At this study was determined that the most significant difference was manifested in terms of stem moisture values during germination and harvesting. In addition, detection of green stem syndrome can be used b* color value as a marker. The hypothesis of the study is that the syndrome can be diagnosed at early stage by following color values in the soybean leaves. In the future studies the color of the leaf can also be a parameter available for the machine learning models.

Keywords: Harvest stage, Glycine max (L.), green stem syndrome, leaf color, machine learning
Low‐Cost, High‐Efficiency Organic Solar Cells Based on Ecofriendly Processing Solvent
Authors: Qin Yunpeng , Tu Haoran , Woodward Nathan , Chauhan Mihirsinh , Thapa Gaurab J. , Amassian Aram , Neuf Justin , You Wei , Yin Haipeng , Ade Harald
Published: January 2025

Developing organic photovoltaic materials at low‐cost and processing with eco‐friendly solvents are promising strategies to solve the critical issues of organic photovoltaic. Key hurdles for commercialization are synthetic complexity of the donor and the prevalent casting from hazardous solvents. Herein, by choosing PTQ10 as a low‐complexity donor and optimizing PTQ10:BTP‐eC9 and PTQ10:Y6 devices cast from chloroform (CF) and o‐xylene (XY), we demonstrate excellent performance with the eco‐friendly solvent XY relative to the CF standard. We find the XY‐processed devices exhibit a PCE of 16.53%, which is higher than the CF‐processed OSCs (16.39%) and it is one of the highest values among PTQ10‐based binary systems. Furthermore, we investigated the adaptability in fabricating large‐area devices via the blade‐coating method. By using CF and XY solvents in 1 cm2 devices, a PCE of 14.94% for XY‐solvent and 12.86% for CF‐solvent was achieved. We further studied the aggregation kinetics by time‐resolved in situ UV‐Vis absorbance measurements to understand differences in bulk heterojunction formation. We observe an overall longer time with XY over CF that improves the reproducibility with XY. We successfully transitioned from toxic solvents to eco‐friendly alternatives without sacrificing efficiency, combined with a low‐cost donor polymer, advancing future practical and commercial applications.
On the Relevance of Static Cells for Fast Scale‐Up of New Redox Flow Battery Chemistries
Authors: Lubian Lara , Rubio‐Presa Ruben , Sanz Roberto , Ruiz Virginia , Ventosa Edgar
Published: January 2025

The search for organic electroactive molecules suitable in aqueous organic flow batteries requires great efforts not only from an electrochemical perspective (weeks of testing) but also from an organic synthesis viewpoint. In this work, the relevance of static cells for accelerating the search and helping understand degradation mechanisms is focused on. First an easy‐to‐make and reliable static cell is validated. A simple but effective approach is proposed to investigate active species in the absence of air, which is based on the use of a cheap lunch box (Ar‐box) in contrast to the expensive Ar‐filled glove box. The relevance of the proposed strategy is demonstrated by investigating two case studies. The 2,6‐dihydroxantraquinone/K4Fe(CN)6 in alkaline is studied with and without Ar‐box. The air leakage in the static cell in the Ar‐box is neglectable, so an Ar‐filled glove box is not needed. Interestingly, the use of Ar‐box leads to higher capacity fading (1.3% vs 2.5% day−1) since a very small leakage of air prevents the formation of dimers. In neutral pH, the total absence of air using 1,1‐bis[3‐sulfonatopropyl]‐4,4‐bipyridinium/K4Fe(CN)6 static cell in the Ar‐box leads to an increase in capacity fading (0.2% day−1) compared to reported values using Ar‐filled glove box.
A Comparative Study of Mineral Carbonation Using Seawater for CO2 Utilization: Magnesium‐Based System Versus Calcium‐Based System with Low Energy Input
Authors: Ho Hsing‐Jung , Iizuka Atsushi
Published: January 2025

Mineral carbonation is promising for CO2 utilization and sequestration via capturing CO2 into stable solid carbonates. However, the effectiveness and price of the solvents, as well as the energy consumption of CO2 purification and pressurization of industrial flue gas, are hindering the development of this technology. Therefore, this study integrates two important concepts of seawater utilization and direct use of CO2 gas without purification and pressurization, investigating the mineral carbonation using seawater as an alternative solvent with low energy input. Carbonation of magnesium‐ and calcium‐based systems is investigated, and the behaviors as well as mechanisms of using seawater and distilled water are compared. The kinetics, conversion progress of compounds, and carbonation behavior are determined. The CO2 uptake capacities of seawater carbonation are higher in the Mg‐based system (1.16 g‐CO2/g‐MgO) than in the Ca‐based system (0.68 g‐CO2/g‐CaO); however, most CO2 in the Mg‐based system is captured in the solution phase. Insights into reaction optimization are provided. The potential assessment of mineral carbonation using seawater is provided. This study aims to facilitate the development of CO2 utilization and provide opportunities for mineral carbonation using seawater, through applying various alkaline wastes containing Ca and Mg from diverse industries.
Health Crises, Community Health Habits, and Pandemic‐Driven Food Sentiments: A Twitter‐Based Study in the United States
Authors: Fakhreddine Lara Bou , Sánchez Mercedes , Pindado Emilio
Published: January 2025

This study analyzes how Twitter users' characteristics (the number of followers and followings) and their context (crisis conditions, community healthy eating, and exercise habits) determine food attitudes during health crises. We analyzed 72,067 US tweets discussing food and COVID‐19 from January 20, 2020 to March 20, 2021. The analysis examines tweets mentioning together the topics “food” and “COVID‐19” to grasp the sentiments of users regarding food amidst this health crisis. Using sentiment analysis and multilevel modeling, our results show that users with a high number of followings tend to express fewer positive sentiments, whereas the opposite is the case for users with a high number of followers. We found that a worsening of the epidemic conditions increased the propensity to express fewer positive sentiments and that the relationship of community healthy habits with pandemic‐driven food sentiments is contingent on these conditions. At low levels of COVID‐19 cases, users in healthy‐eating communities tend to express positive sentiments, but at high levels, they express more negative sentiments. Regarding community exercise habits, people in these contexts often express fewer positive sentiments. However, as the pandemic worsened, individuals in these communities tended to express more positive sentiments. This study advises policymakers to counter misinformation and develop targeted communication strategies for different communities.
Service capacity and disability resource integration: A strategic survey of immigrant and refugee‐serving agencies in Illinois
Authors: Hasnain Rooshey , Hounmenou Charles E. , Smith Adrienne B. , Johnson Timothy P. , Kondratowicz Diane M. , Taradash Jamie M. , Shinde Akash Rohidas , Alvarado Francisco
Published: January 2025

Immigrants and refugees in the United States often face significant barriers in accessing social services, including mental health support, legal assistance, ESL or related education, housing, vocational training, workforce resources, transportation, and citizenship support. This article explores the strengths and challenges of community‐based organizations welcoming centers (CBO WC) in Illinois that serve these populations, including people with disabilities, in culturally appropriate and inclusive ways. The Immigrant and Refugee‐Led Capacity Development Network of Illinois, based at the University of Illinois Chicago, collaborated with the state's Office of Welcoming Centers to explore the service capacities of 17 CBO grantees. Thirty‐three CBO staff members and 13 CBO leaders participated in online surveys designed to identify organizational strengths, assess needs, and explore opportunities to advance their missions. The findings show a range of strengths and abilities to assist immigrant and refugee communities and the limitations they face in addressing critical needs. Implications and future research approaches are discussed.
A Qualitative Analysis of Immigrant Latinx Housecleaners' Experiences of How Power Relations With “Employers” Influence Working Conditions in New York City: The Safe and Just Cleaners Study
Authors: Cuervo Isabel , Baron Sherry L. , Flores Deysi , Gonzalez Ana , Harari Homero
Published: January 2025

Background

Housecleaning work has been characterized as precarious employment with unstable work hours, arbitrary and low pay and benefits, and exposures to chemical, physical, and psychosocial stressors. Understanding how interpersonal power dynamics between workers and clients, a component of precarious work, contributes to work exposures can inform and improve prevention programs.

Methods

We used reflexive thematic analysis of data from seven focus groups with Latinx immigrant housecleaners in New York City to explore workers' experience of interpersonal power dynamics with their clients—whom they referred to as their “employers”—and its influences on working conditions.

Results

Employer direction and monitoring varied and mostly reduced workers' autonomy to choose products, sometimes leading workers to complete tasks in more hazardous ways. Housecleaners reported using larger quantities of products, products with stronger scents, and more physical exertion to increase the efficiency of their cleaning, to complete tasks quickly, and to please their clients. Allotted time, tasks, and pay were interconnected, often resulting in negative reports about health and well‐being. As immigrants, they also experienced discrimination and intimidation, which compounded their anxiety due to their employment insecurity. Nevertheless, participants learned and navigated high variance in employers' cleaning preferences and attempted to take control over the conduct of their work, when possible, and sometimes expressed self‐advocacy.

Conclusions

Housecleaners' precarious employment arrangements affect how they navigate interpersonal relationships with employers, which impairs their working conditions and occupational exposures. Improvements in labor and social protections, such as designing supportive policies and training for workers and employers, are needed to improve working conditions.
Incidence of Occupational Injuries Among Military Working Dog Handlers, 2016–2023
Authors: Mabila Sithembile L. , Murray Jessica H. , Stahlman Shauna L. , McQuistan Alexis A. , Sheriff Edward A.
Published: January 2025

Objective

This study examines the incidence of injuries among active component service members in Military Working Dog (MWD) handler occupations compared to three other active component occupational groups.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted with a total of 2,524,092 active component service members including, 3935 MWD handlers, 2025 veterinary personnel, 113,413 military police, and 2,404,719 all other active component service members (ACSM). Incidence rate and incident rate ratios of injuries were determined.

Results

MWD handlers had the second highest rates of injuries (14,194.42 injuries per 10,000 p‐yrs.) with veterinary personnel having the highest rate of injuries (17,320.11 injuries per 10,000 p‐yrs.). Military police (11,521.71 injuries per 10,000 p‐yrs.) and other ACSM (11,708.60 injuries per 10,000 p‐yrs.) had similar incidence rates. Risk for injury was highest among women and older service members.

Conclusion

This study is among the first investigations into MWD handlers' occupational health outcomes. These results suggest the importance of continued MWD handler health assessment.
Chopper‐Based Capacitor Voltage Equalization in Four‐Switch Split Capacitor Distribution Static Compensator With a Zig‐Zag Transformer
Authors: Arun Kumar Gajangi , Siva Kumar Ganjikunta , Srinivasa Rao Koyyana , Karasala Chinna
Published: January 2025

A three‐phase four‐switch split capacitor distribution static compensator (FSSC‐DSTATCOM) with a zig‐zag transformer is used to mitigate current‐related power quality issues in the distribution system. In conventional DSTATCOM, a significant dc component of current diverges voltages across split capacitors, degrading the current tracking performance and increasing the source current THD. The proposed FSSC‐DSTATCOM with chopper circuit equalizes the voltages across split capacitors, improves the current tracking performance, and reduces the source current THD. Moreover, FSSC‐DSTATCOM reduces the switch count compared to conventional approaches that use more switches. In FSSC‐DSTATCOM, switching pulses for each switch are generated using hysteresis current control based on the reference filter currents derived from instantaneous symmetrical component theory (ISCT). The generation of switching pulses of chopper circuit is achieved by employing logical relational operator circuitry at the dc input side of DSTATCOM. Simulation and hardware implementation are used to verify the proposed FSSC‐DSTATCOM with the chopper circuit.
Power Sharing of Different Distributed Generator Sets in Microgrid Based on Consensus Control
Authors: Li Fangyuan , Zuo Xuke , Cheng Zixia , Liu Yanhong
Published: January 2025

Microgrids incorporate renewable energy sources, battery energy storage systems (BESS), and local loads to operate either with the main grid or independently. In microgrids, virtual synchronous generators (VSGs) and droop control are commonly used to regulate renewable energy sources, providing frequency and voltage control. The VSG and droop control adjust active power based on frequency deviation. However, their effectiveness depends on parameters and does not fully address power‐sharing issues. Traditionally, power sharing is handled by secondary control via the microgrid central controller (MGCC), introducing a centralized, hierarchical approach. To enhance decentralization in microgrids, this paper proposes a consensus based power sharing scheme and its corresponding control for the distributed generators (DGs). The output power levels of DG units are determined by their capacities, ensuring efficient operation. Unlike existing approaches using a hierarchical framework, this work integrates primary and secondary control into a unified distributed control framework. Building on VSG control for microgrid voltage regulation, consensus control is added to manage the distribution of active power. A rigorous theoretical analysis is conducted to validate the proposed method. The method is capable of ensuring active power sharing without relying on an MGCC, and the sharing is also based on the ratio of rated capacities. The controller proposed in this paper achieves the expected control performance, effectively distributing active power sharing in the microgrid. Finally, the effectiveness and performance of the proposed method are verified through comprehensive case studies.
Coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) and Carob (Ceratonia siliqua L.) Flours Dietary Fibers Differentially Impact Fecal Microbiota Composition and Metabolic Outputs In Vitro
Authors: Arioglu‐Tuncil Seda , Deemer Dane , Lindemann Stephen R. , Tunçil Yunus E.
Published: January 2025

Alternative flours can reveal beneficial health effects. The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the effects of dietary fibers (DFs) of coconut and carob flours on colonic microbiota compositions and function. Coconut flour DFs were found to be dominated by mannose‐containing polysaccharides by gas chromatography (GC)/MS and spectrophotometer, whereas glucose and uronic acid were the main monosaccharide moieties in carob flour DFs. In vitro fecal fermentation analysis revealed that coconut flour DFs result in the generation of microbial butyrate as much as inulin does, which is known to be a butyrogenic prebiotic, but at a slower rate. Supportingly, coconut flour DFs promoted butyrate‐producing bacteria including Roseburia and Coprococcus, whereas carob flour DFs stimulated Prevotella‐related OTUs. In addition, higher microbial diversity was achieved at the end of the fermentation of coconut flour DFs by the fecal microbiota. This study clearly shows that alternative flours have distinct functionalities in terms of colonic microbiota composition and function, and coconut flour could be used as an alternative flour for the development of functional food products targeting colonic health.
Removal of turfgrass for water supply resilience
Authors: Dukes Michael D.
Published: January 2025

Landscape plant palettes are changing due to water supply pressure. Turfgrass area is being replaced with alternative ground covers, other non‐irrigated plants or hardscapes. Mechanisms range from incentive programs sometimes called “cash for grass” to outright bans on the use of turfgrass in “nonfunctional” areas or areas otherwise considered unnecessary. Despite evidence that shifts in landscape plants such as turf removal can save water, questions remain about the long‐term impact of such programs as well as the high cost. This shift in plant palettes will need to be accompanied by development of new groundcovers. In addition, there is opportunity for turfgrass breeding and development for cultivars that require no irrigation in humid climates.
Demographic, anthropometric and intrasubject variations affect platelet‐rich plasma formulation
Authors: García‐Bordes Luis , Álvarez‐Díaz Pedro , Alentorn‐Geli Eduard , Ferré‐Aniorte Alfred , Laiz‐Boada Patricia , Seijas‐Vázquez Roberto , Cugat‐Bertomeu Ramon
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to describe the inter‐ and intra‐individual differences in the platelet concentration between blood and platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) preparation, assess intersubject differences considering demographic and anthropometric variables, describe PRP code distribution and analyse intrasubject variability.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted using a single‐centre patient database from November 2021 to November 2023. It included patients with musculoskeletal pathologies treated with PRP injections. Primary variables were demographic characteristics (sex, age, body mass index [BMI]) and platelet concentrations in blood and PRP during treatments. Secondary analysis focused on PRP code frequency distribution and intrasubject variability according to different coding systems.

Results

Here, 686 patients met the inclusion criteria. PRP exhibited significantly higher platelet concentrations compared to blood (378.01 ± 136.25 × 103 platelets/µL vs. 221.97 ± 58.21 × 103 platelets/µL, p < 0.001). Younger patients had higher platelet concentrations in both blood (p = 0.004) and PRP (p = 0.003), whereas female patients showed higher platelet concentrations only in blood (p < 0.001). The platelet concentration ratio was higher in males (p < 0.001) and those with higher BMI (p = 0.023). Significant differences were found between the existing and modified PRP coding systems (p < 0.001). Intrasubject variability was higher in PRP than in blood (coefficient of variance: 21.32 ± 17.36 in blood vs. 27.85 ± 19.10 in PRP, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Age, gender, BMI and intrasubject variations significantly affect PRP formulation, emphasizing the importance of addressing these variables for a more predictable, personalized and effective therapeutic approach.

Level of Evidence

This is a retrospective study. Level IV.
The use of four K‐wires does not lead to a reduction of the MPTA in the context of a one‐dimensional tibial deflection correction of patients with ACL re‐rupture and pathologically increased tibial slope
Authors: Arras Christian , Korthaus Alexander , Frings Jannik , Berninger Markus T. , Fahlbusch Hendrik , Frosch Karl‐Heinz , Drenck Tobias , Akoto Ralph , Krause Matthias
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Anterior tibial closing wedge osteotomy (ATCWO) has been shown to significantly reduce failure rates of revision anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstructions in patients with a posterior tibial slope (PTS) ≥12°. Recent findings suggest a slight but significant reduction of the medial proximal tibial angle (MPTA) resulting in a varus knee where the sagittal osteotomy plane is based on a total of two guide wires defining the osteotomy wedge without respecting the frontal plane. We hypothesize that the placement of a total of four guide wires intraoperatively can reduce the influence on the MPTA.

Methods

This study retrospectively reports on a two‐centre series of 42 ATCWOs for PTS correction between January 2022 and December 2023 at two clinical centres. A total of four guide wires were placed based on a true lateral intraoperative view of the tibia, with two positioned each at the cranial and at the caudal pole of the osteotomy wedge, serving as guides for the saw to create the osteotomy, with careful attention to ensuring that the proximal and distal K‐Wires were placed parallel to each other. A retrospective analysis was conducted by examining true lateral and anteroposterior radiographs to identify changes in sagittal and coronal plane alignment.

Results

The study included 19 women and 23 men, with a mean age of 29.7 ± 8.6 years with first‐time ACL revision surgery and a minimum PTS of ≥12°. PTS decreased significantly from 14.5 ± 2.8° preoperatively to 8.2 ± 1.9° post‐operatively (p < 0.001). The aMPTA demonstrated no significant difference between preoperative (mean aMPTA: 86.9 ± 2.1°) and post‐operative (mean aMPTA: 86.6 ± 1.9°) measurements (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

With our technique of placing four guide wires to achieve precise guidance during the insertion of the osteotomy wedge, there is no substantial impact on the aMPTA during slope correction.

Level of Evidence

Level IV.
Clinical outcomes and biomechanics in bicruciate‐retaining total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Kono Kenichi , Kage Tomofumi , Yamazaki Takaharu , Taketomi Shuji , Yamagami Ryota , Inui Hiroshi , Tomita Tetsuya , Tanaka Sakae
Published: January 2025

Purpose

To clarify the influence of biomechanics on post‐operative clinical outcomes in bicruciate‐retaining total knee arthroplasty (BCR‐TKA).

Methods

Severe medial osteoarthritis who underwent BCR‐TKA were examined. Each patient was asked to perform a squat (weight‐bearing [WB]) and active assisted knee flexion (non‐WB [NWB]) under single fluoroscopy surveillance. A 2D‐to‐3D registration technique was used. Patients were divided into two groups based on their 1‐year post‐operative patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs) using hierarchical cluster analysis. The rotational alignment on computed tomography, anterior stability at 30° of knee flexion, axial rotation of the femur relative to the tibial component and anteroposterior translation of the medial and lateral femorotibial contact points were measured.

Results

Components did not significantly differ between the groups, with 1.6 ± 5.0° and 5.4 ± 4.7° of femoral internal rotation in the low PROM (N = 28) and high PROM (N = 8) groups, respectively. Moreover, anterior stability did not significantly differ (low PROM: 4.9 ± 1.4 mm, high PROM: 5.3 ± 1.0 mm). The knee externally rotated from 0° to 70° and from 50° to 110° of flexion during WB and NWB, respectively. The low‐PROM group exhibited more external rotation across all ranges of motion. Medial contact points moved backwards from 0° to 30° of flexion during WB, forward from 30° to 100° of flexion, and backwards from 100° to 110° of flexion. The low‐PROM group was positioned more forward throughout the full range of motion during WB. Lateral contact points moved backwards at 0−30° of flexion, forward at 70−100° of flexion, and backwards at 100−110° of flexion during WB, while there was backward movement at 50° of flexion during NWB. Both activities exhibited a more posterior position in the low‐PROM group throughout the full range of motion.

Conclusion

The femoral component in the low‐PROM group was externally rotated across all ranges of motion, and the lateral contact points were posteriorly located in BCR‐TKA.

Level of Evidence

Level II, prospective cohort study.
Cartilage thickness can be accurately measured intraoperatively in total knee arthroplasty: A step further in calipered kinematic alignment
Authors: Giurazza Giancarlo , Campi Stefano , Hirschmann Michael T. , Franceschetti Edoardo , Tanzilli Andrea , Gregori Pietro , Paciotti Michele , Zampogna Biagio , Papalia Rocco
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Kinematic alignment (KA) in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is by definition a pure femoral resurfacing procedure aiming to restore the individual prearthritic anatomy. However, when a 2 mm compensation is systematically used on the worn side, the variability in cartilage thickness in the unworn compartment might alter the accuracy of the technique. This study aimed to validate two intraoperative femoral cartilage thickness measurement techniques by comparing them to the photographic method, which measures cartilage thickness through pixel analysis of bone‐cut images. The study hypothesized that the two intraoperative methods are comparable and similarly accurate within 0.5 mm of the photographic method.

Methods

Seventy cartilage thickness measurements from seventy patients with end‐stage knee osteoarthritis were prospectively collected. Two intraoperative techniques were evaluated: the electrocautery tip method (Method A) and the ruler method (Method B), performed before and after distal femoral bone resections, respectively. The postoperative photographic analysis (Method C) served as the reference method. Measurements were rounded to the nearest 0.5 mm for consistency. Data were analyzed using Kruskal–Wallis test, Wilcoxon rank‐sum tests, Spearman's rank correlation, percentage of agreement and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs).

Results

No significant differences were observed between Method A and Method B in measuring femoral cartilage thickness. Agreement with Method C was 100% for Method B and 85% for Method A. In the 15% of discordant cases, Method A overestimated the measurements by one category of 0.5 mm compared to Method C. Correlation coefficients between the methods were high (ρ = 0.88−1.0). Intra‐ and interobserver reliability was high for all methods (ICCs 0.91–0.95).

Discussion

Both intraoperative methods are reliable and comparable to the photographic method when rounded to the closest 0.5 mm, with no significant differences among them. The electrocautery method has the added advantage of measuring cartilage thickness before bone cuts are performed.

Level of Evidence

Level IV.
Comparison of taurolidine with 4% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid on antimicrobial lock effectiveness: An experimental study
Authors: Visek Jakub , Ryskova Lenka , Cesakova Petra , Stanclova Jana , Vajrychova Marie , Blaha Vladimir
Published: January 2025

Background

Antimicrobial lock therapy is recommended for preventing and treating catheter‐related bloodstream infections, but different solutions have uncertain efficacy.

Methods

Two locks, 1.35% taurolidine and 4% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), were tested on Staphylococcus epidermidis, Staphylococcus aureus, methicillin‐resistant S. aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, multidrug‐resistant P. aeruginosa, vancomycin‐resistant Enterococcus faecium, Klebsiella oxytoca (carbapenemase producing), K. pneumoniae (extended‐spectrum β‐lactamase producing), Candida albicans, and Candida glabrata. Broviac catheter segments were incubated with these organisms and then exposed to various lock solutions. Colony‐forming units (CFUs) were counted after 2, 4, and 24 h of incubation.

Results

Taurolidine showed a significant decrease in CFUs after 2 h in S. aureus, S. epidermidis, methicillin‐resistant S. aureus, vancomycin‐resistant E. faecium, P. aeruginosa (both sensitive and multidrug‐resistant strains), K. oxytoca, C. albicans, and C. glabrata. After 4 h, significant reductions were noted in S. aureus, S. epidermidis, methicillin‐resistant S. aureus, P. aeruginosa, multidrug‐resistant P. aeruginosa, K. pneumoniae, K. oxytoca, and C. albicans. Taurolidine was also effective after 24 h, especially against methicillin‐resistant S. aureus and multidrug‐resistant P. aeruginosa. Four percent EDTA acid showed a significant reduction in CFUs after 2 h in S. aureus, vancomycin‐resistant E. faecium, P. aeruginosa, K. oxytoca, C. albicans, and C. glabrata. After 4 h, reductions occurred in P. aeruginosa, multidrug‐resistant P. aeruginosa, K. oxytoca, and C. albicans and after 24 h in methicillin‐resistant S. aureus, P. aeruginosa, and K. oxytoca.

Conclusion

Taurolidine is more effective than 4% EDTA acid in eradicating Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative microorganisms and fungi.
Return to competition after ACL reconstruction: Factors influencing rates and timing in Swedish football players
Authors: Sandon Alexander , Kvist Joanna , Hedevik Henrik , Forssblad Magnus
Published: January 2025

Purpose

To investigate the rate and timing for return to football league games after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) in Swedish players, examining associations with sex, age, level, graft and additional ACL surgery.

Method

Data from the Swedish National Knee Registry (SNKLR) and the Swedish Football Association's IT System (FOGIS) were used. The study cohort comprised 971 football players, 64% males, who underwent primary ACLR. Demographics, graft type and surgical information were extracted from the SNKLR and game participation from FOGIS. Follow‐up for return to competition (RTC) was conducted for 36 months, while additional ACLR follow‐up was 3–7 years. Statistical analyses, including Kaplan–Meier survival curves and relative risk calculations, were employed to assess factors influencing RTC rates and timing.

Results

Out of 971 players analyzed, 53% RTC within 3 years with no difference between males and females, at a mean of 15 months (median 14 months) from surgery to the first game. Eleven (2%) players RTC < 6 months from ACLR, 62 (12%) 6–9 months, 125 (24%) 9–12 months and 331 (63%) >12 months. Patellar tendon (PT) grafts demonstrated superior performance, showing quicker returns and higher RTC rates (p = 0.005) compared to hamstring (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.63 [0.48–0.84]) and quadriceps tendon grafts (HR: 0.53 [0.30–0.93]). Players competing in higher divisions pre‐injury experienced significantly swifter and higher RTC rates (p < 0.001). Ninety‐five (10%) had a registered additional ACLR. Players who RTC did not exhibit a significantly higher rate of revision (35 [7%] vs. 25 [5%]). However, those who returned faced a heightened risk of contralateral ACLRs compared to those who did not RTC (32 [6%] vs. 4 [1%] RR 1.72 [1.59–1.96], p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The study reveals that 53% of football players RTC after ACLR, predominantly after more than 12 months. The RTC was higher and faster in high‐level players and those receiving a PT graft. The slow RTC may contribute to the relatively low rate of additional ACLRs.

Level of Evidence

Level III.