bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigating Winter Temperatures in Sweden and Norway: Potential Relationships with Climatic Indices and Effects on Electrical Power and Energy Systems
Authors: Mohammadi Younes , Palstev Aleksey , Polajžer Boštjan , Miraftabzadeh Seyed Mahdi , Khodadad Davood
Published: July 2023

This paper presents a comprehensive study of winter temperatures in Norway and northern Sweden, covering a period of 50 to 70 years. The analysis utilizes Singular Spectrum Analysis (SSA) to investigate temperature trends at six selected locations. The results demonstrate an overall long-term rise in temperatures, which can be attributed to global warming. However, when investigating variations in highest, lowest, and average temperatures for December, January, and February, 50% of the cases exhibit a significant decrease in recent years, indicating colder winters, especially in December. The study also explores the variations in Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) variations as a crucial climate factor over the last 15 years, estimating a possible 20% decrease/slowdown within the first half of the 21st century. Subsequently, the study investigates potential similarities between winter AMOC and winter temperatures in the mid to high latitudes over the chosen locations. Additionally, the study examines another important climatic index, the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO), and explores possible similarities between the winter NAO index and winter temperatures. The findings reveal a moderate observed lagged correlation for AMOC-smoothed temperatures, particularly in December, along the coastal areas of Norway. Conversely, a stronger lagged correlation is observed between the winter NAO index and temperatures in northwest Sweden and coastal areas of Norway. Thus, NAO may influence both AMOC and winter temperatures (NAO drives both AMOC and temperatures). Furthermore, the paper investigates the impact of colder winters, whether caused by AMOC, NAO, or other factors like winds or sea ice changes, on electrical power and energy systems, highlighting potential challenges such as reduced electricity generation, increased electricity consumption, and the vulnerability of power grids to winter storms. The study concludes by emphasizing the importance of enhancing the knowledge of electrical engineering researchers regarding important climate indices, AMOC and NAO, the possible associations between them and winter temperatures, and addressing the challenges posed by the likelihood of colder winters in power systems.
Dynamic Spillovers between Carbon Price and Power Sector Returns in China: A Network-Based Analysis before and after Launching National Carbon Emissions Trading Market
Authors: Deng Jing , Zheng Yujie , Zhang Yun , Liu Cheng , Pan Huanxue
Published: July 2023

The launch of the national carbon emissions trading (CET) market has resulted in a closer relationship between China’s CET market and its electricity market, making it easy for risks to transfer between markets. This paper utilizes data from China’s CET market and electric power companies between 2017 and 2023 to construct the spillover index model of Diebold and Yilmaz, the frequency-domain spillover approach developed by Barun’ik and Křehl’ik, and a minimum spanning tree model. The comparison is made before and after the launch of the national CET market. Subsequently, this paper examines the market spillover effects, as well as the static and dynamic properties of network structures, considering both the time domain and frequency-domain perspectives. The research findings suggest the following: (1) There is a strong risk spillover effect between China’s CET market and the stock prices of electric power companies; (2) There is asymmetry in the paired spillover effects between carbon trading pilot markets and the national CET market, and differences exist in the impact of risk spillovers from power companies between the two; (3) The results of the MST model indicate that the risk contagion efficiency is higher in the regional CET pilot stage compared to the national CET market launch stage, with significant changes occurring in key nodes before and after the launch of the national CET market; (4) Both the dynamic spillover index and the standardized tree length results demonstrate that crisis events can worsen the risk contagion between markets. Besides offering a theoretical foundation and empirical evidence for the development of China’s CET and electricity markets, the findings of this paper can provide recommendations for financial market participants as well.
Early Detection of Health Condition Degradation of Circuit Breaker Based on Electrical Quantity Monitoring
Authors: Li Lisheng , Wang Bin , Liu Yang , Yu Haidong , Zhang Shidong , Huang Min
Published: July 2023

Circuit breakers on the filter bank branches in converter stations are vulnerable to contact wear and mechanical deterioration caused by frequent operations, which can lead to circuit breaker breakdowns and explosions. It is imperative to conduct research on the early detection of abnormal states in circuit breakers. Existing electrical quantity-based detection methods are constrained by a priori assumptions, and their measurement methods are susceptible to interference, leading to misjudgments. To address this issue, this paper examines the influence of changes in critical breakdown field strength and contact spacing on circuit breaker operation states. It also proposes a technical scheme that employs breakdown current values to comprehensively characterize circuit breaker operation states, replacing the use of critical breakdown field strength and contact spacing. An early detection method for abnormal circuit breaker states based on a sequence of breakdown current ratios at different times is proposed, and its effectiveness is verified through simulation and field recording data.
Preliminary Design and Analysis of a Photovoltaic-Powered Direct Air Capture System for a Residential Building
Authors: Al Assaf Anwar Hamdan , Alrebei Odi Fawwaz , Le Page Laurent M. , El-Sabek Luai , Obeidat Bushra , Kaouri Katerina , Abufares Hamed , Amhamed Abdulkarem I.
Published: July 2023

To promote the adoption of Direct Air Capture (DAC) systems, this paper proposes and tests a photovoltaic-powered DAC system in a generic residential building located in Qatar. The proposed DAC system can efficiently reduce CO2 concentration in a living space, thus providing an incentive to individuals to adopt it. The ventilation performance of the building is determined using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations, undertaken with ANSYS-CFD. The CFD model was validated using microclimate-air quality dataloggers. The simulated velocity was 1.4 m/s and the measured velocity was 1.35 m/s, which corresponds to a 3.5% error. The system decarbonizes air supplied to the building by natural ventilation or ventilation according to the ASHRAE standards. Furthermore, the performance of the photovoltaic system is analyzed using the ENERGYPLUS package of the Design Builder software. We assume that 75% of CO2 is captured. In addition, a preliminary characterization of the overall system’s performance is determined. It is determined that the amount of CO2 captured by the system is 0.112 tones/year per square meter of solar panel area. A solar panel area of 19 m2 is required to decarbonize the building with natural ventilation, and 27 m2 is required in the case of ventilation according to the ASHRAE standard.
Formulation Study on Edible Film from Waste Grape and Red Cabbage
Authors: Mileti Olga , Baldino Noemi , Filice Francesco , Lupi Francesca R. , Sinicropi Maria Stefania , Gabriele Domenico
Published: July 2023

(1) Background: Recent research on the valorization of agro-industrial waste has attempted to obtain new products. Grape residue is a waste product used in the grape wine industry that is rich in anthocyanins, as well as leaves and waste parts from red cabbage processing. Anthocyanins, thanks to their various functionalities, can be recovered and used as active and intelligent agents in food packaging. Anthocyanins have antioxidant properties that help to prevent cardiovascular disease. (2) Methods: In this study, the process of extracting waste was studied using solvent and supercritical CO2 extraction. The obtained anthocyanins were used in starch-based food film formulations. Several formulations were studied using rheometric techniques and the effect of adding anthocyanins on optimal film formulation was investigated. (3) Results: Solvent extractions resulted in a maximum extraction yield. The extracts obtained were used for the preparation of coating and edible films, optimized in the formulation. (4) Conclusions: The addition of anthocyanins to films resulted in increased sample structuring and mechanical properties that are valid for applications, like dipping using coverage methods. The packaging is also attractive and pH-sensitive.
Instrumental Color Measurements Have Relationships to Fat Smearing in Fresh Sausage
Authors: Bumsted Jarrod , Ford Emily , Blair Amanda , Underwood Keith , Zuelly Stacy M. S.
Published: July 2023

Fat smearing, or poor fat particle definition, impacts the visual quality of sausage. However, objective methods of assessing fat smearing have not been identified. Therefore, the objective of this experiment was to determine the relationship between fat smearing and instrumental color analysis for fresh sausages to create a standard method for using instrumental color in fat smearing analysis. Meat blocks of pork (PK), beef (BF), and a mixture of pork and beef (P/B) were formed and processed at three different temperatures to create varying degrees of fat smearing. The average fat smearing score of each sausage was used to determine if a relationship existed with instrumental color measurements (CIE L*, a*, b*, and reflectance percentage at 580 nm and 630 nm) and color calculations. A correlation was observed for L* (R = −0.704) and the reflectance at 580 nm (R = −0.775) to PK fat smearing (p < 0.05). In P/B sausage, both reflectances at ratios between 630 nm and 580 nm were correlated to P/B fat smearing. No measurement or calculation was correlated with BF fat smearing (p > 0.05). Therefore, it is possible to use instrumental color analysis for the evaluation of fat smearing in pork and pork/beef blended sausage products, but not in beef sausage products.
Use of Artificial Vision during the Lye Treatment of Sevillian-Style Green Olives to Determine the Optimal Time for Terminating the Cooking Process
Authors: Gordillo Miguel Calixto López , Madueño-Luna Antonio , Luna José Miguel Madueño , Ramírez-Juidías Emilio
Published: July 2023

This study focuses on characterizing the temporal evolution of the surface affected by industrial treatment with NaOH within the processing tanks during the lye treatment stage of Manzanilla table olives. The lye treatment process is affected by multiple variables, such as ambient temperature, the initial temperature of the olives before lye treatment, the temperature of the NaOH solution, the concentration of the solution, the variety of olives, and their size, which are determinants of the speed of the lye treatment process. Traditionally, an expert, relaying on their subjective judgement, manages the cooking process empirically, leading to variability in the termination timing of the cook. In this study, we introduce a system that, by using an artificial vision system, allows us to know in a deterministic way the percentage of lye treatment achieved at each moment along the cooking process; furthermore, with an interpolator that accumulates values during the lye treatment, it is possible to anticipate the completion of the cooking by indicating the moment when two-thirds, three-fourths, or some other value of the interior surface will be reached with an error of less than 10% relative to the optimal moment. Knowing this moment is crucial for proper processing, as it will affect subsequent stages of the manufacturing process and the quality of the final product.
Plant Proteins: Methods of Quality Assessment and the Human Health Benefits of Pulses
Authors: Nosworthy Matthew G. , Medina Gerardo , Lu Zhan-Hui , House James D.
Published: July 2023

As countries increase their standard of living and individual income levels rise, there is a concomitant increase in the demand for animal-based protein. However, there are alternative sources. One of the alternatives available is that of increased direct human consumption of plant proteins. The quality of a dietary protein is an important consideration when discussing the merits of one protein source over another. The three most commonly used methods to express protein quality are the protein efficiency ratio (PER), a weight gain measurement; protein digestibility-corrected amino acid score (PDCAAS); and the digestible indispensable amino acid score (DIAAS). The possibility that alterations in the quality and quantity of protein in the diet could generate specific health outcomes is one being actively researched. Plant-based proteins may have additional beneficial properties for human health when compared to animal protein sources, including reductions in risk factors for cardiovascular disease and contributions to increased satiety. In this paper, the methods for the determination of protein quality and the potential beneficial qualities of plant proteins to human health will be described.
Mixed Fractional-Order and High-Order Adaptive Image Denoising Algorithm Based on Weight Selection Function
Authors: Bi Shaojiu , Li Minmin , Cai Guangcheng
Published: July 2023

In this paper, a mixed-order image denoising algorithm containing fractional-order and high-order regularization terms is proposed, which effectively suppresses the staircase effect generated by the TV model and its variants while better preserving the edges and details of the image. Adding different regularization penalties in different regions is fundamental to improving the denoising performance of the model. Therefore, a weight selection function is designed using the structure tensor to achieve a more effective selection of regularization terms in different regions. In each iteration, the regularization parameters are adaptively adjusted according to the Morozov discrepancy principle to promote the performance of the algorithm. Based on the primal–dual theory, the original algorithm is improved by using the predictor–corrector scheme to obtain a more accurate approximate solution while ensuring the convergence of the algorithm. The effectiveness of the proposed algorithm is demonstrated through simulation experiments.
GWAS for Early-Establishment QTLs and Their Linkage to Major Phenology-Affecting Genes (Vrn, Ppd, and Eps) in Bread Wheat
Authors: Farhad Md. , Tripathi Shashi , Singh Ravi , Joshi Arun , Bhati Pradeep , Vishwakarma Manish , Kumar Uttam
Published: July 2023

Farmers in northern and central Indian regions prefer to plant wheat early in the season to take advantage of the remaining soil moisture. By planting crops before the start of the season, it is possible to extend the time frame for spring wheat. The early-wheat-establishment experiment began in the 2017 growing season at the Borlaug Institute for South Asia (BISA) in Ludhiana, India, and, after three years of intensive study, numerous agronomic, physiological, and yield data points were gathered. This study aimed to identify wheat lines suitable for early establishment through an analysis of the agro-morphological traits and the genetic mapping of associated genes or quantitative trait loci (QTLs). Advancing the planting schedule by two–three weeks proved to be advantageous in terms of providing a longer duration for crop growth and reducing the need for irrigation. This is attributed to the presence of residual soil moisture resulting from the monsoon season. Early sowing facilitated the selection of genotypes able to withstand early elevated temperatures and a prolonged phenological period. The ideotype, which includes increased photo-growing degree days for booting and heading, as well as a longer grain-filling period, is better suited to early planting than timely planting. Senescence was delayed in combination with a slower rate of canopy temperature rise, which was an excellent trait for early-adapted ideotypes. Thus, a novel approach to wheat breeding would include a screening of genotypes for early planting and an ideotype design with consistent and appropriate features. A genome-wide association study (GWAS) revealed multiple QTLs linked to early adaptation in terms of the yield and its contributing traits. Among them, 44 novel QTLs were also found along with known loci. Furthermore, the study discovered that the phenology regulatory genes, such as Vrn and Ppd, are in the same genomic region, thereby contributing to early adaptation.
Exploring the Interrelationships between Public Health, Fiscal Decentralization, and Local Government Debt in China
Authors: Cao Mingyao , Duan Keyi , Cao Mingyu , Ibrahim Haslindar
Published: July 2023

This paper investigates the interrelationships among local government debt, fiscal decentralization, and public health. The investigation begins by constructing a theoretical model to analyze the inherent connections between these variables. Subsequently, an empirical analysis is conducted using data from China between 2015 and 2021. The findings demonstrate a bidirectional relationship between fiscal decentralization, local government debt, and public health. Specifically, it is observed that an increase in local government debt has adverse effects on both fiscal decentralization and public health, while fiscal decentralization has a positive impact on public health. These insights are consistently validated through rigorous regression methodologies, affirming the robustness and significance of these relationships.
Two Types of Europium-Based Photoconversion Covers for Greenhouse Farming with Different Effects on Plants
Authors: Paskhin Mark O. , Yanykin Denis V. , Popov Alexander V. , Pobedonostsev Roman V. , Kazantseva Dina V. , Dorokhov Alexey S. , Izmailov Andrey Yu. , Vyatchinov Alexey A. , Orlovskaya Elena O. , Shaidulin Artem T. , Orlovskii Yurii V. , Vodeneev Vladimir A. , Gudkov Sergey V.
Published: July 2023

In the present work, we investigated the effect of light conversion using europium (Eu(III))-based photoconversion covers on the cultivation of agricultural plants and their resistance to stress conditions. Two types of europium nanoparticles were used. The first one was obtained from europium oxide (Eu2O3) by laser fragmentation. The second one was Eu3+:LaF3 nanocrystals obtained by hydrothermal-microwave treatment, the content of europium ions in which was 50% of the total amount of cations. Tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum) and cucumbers (Cucumis sativus) were used as model plants. It was shown that plants grown under cover with Eu2O3 (PCC-Eu2O3) were 30–40% larger, gave a higher yield, and the activation of gas exchange processes and the light phase of photosynthesis in the leaves in response to the lighting was faster. On the contrary, plants grown under cover with Eu3+:LaF3 (PCC-Eu3+:LaF3) tended to slow down the rate of biomass accumulation and decrease the rate of gas exchange activation. It was shown that photoconversion covers change the resistance of plants to stress conditions: if plants grown under PCC-Eu2O3 became more sensitive to heat (+40 °C) and cold (+4 °C) treatment, then plants grown under PCC-Eu3+:LaF3 became more resistant to high and low temperatures. It was found that PCC-Eu2O3 inhibited the development of the phytopathogen Phytophthora infestans on tomato plants. It was assumed that changes in the illumination spectrum by the photoconversion covers cause both the activation of plant growth in the case of Eu2O3 and an increase in plant resistance in the case of Eu3+:LaF3 applications.
Examining the Effect of a Parent-to-Parent Intervention for Low-Income Youth with Serious Emotional and Behavioral Challenges
Authors: Poole Lindsay B. , Carlson John S. , Batsche-McKenzie Kim , Tate Justin , Shank Jane
Published: July 2023

Background: Numerous barriers to mental health utilization exist for families of children who present with serious emotional and behavioral challenges. Evidence-based practices that facilitate equitable outcomes across diverse populations are essential to identify. This study examined possible differential service outcomes in a Medicaid-funded, parent-to-parent intervention called Parent Support Partner (PSP). Method: Data from four hundred and sixty-four parents who received PSP services were evaluated for possible demographic differences in service completion. Within-group analyses were utilized for an analysis of outcomes (parent change, child functioning; treatment acceptability) within a subset (N = 153) of those who completed services. Results: No racial disparities were found in those who completed PSP (43%) when compared to those who did not (57%). Regression analyses uncovered significant improvements in parent competence and confidence, as well as overall child functioning (global functioning across domains such as school, home, behaviors). Consistent with identifying evidence-based practices, findings were seen consistently across the diverse sample of those who completed PSP services. Improvements in parents’ sense of competence and confidence were correlated with perceptions of treatment acceptability. Discussion: PSP is an innovative and promising intervention with demonstrated high levels of acceptability found to increase parent confidence and self-competence to advocate for treatments that can improve the mental health functioning of their child. Future investigations of factors associated with increasing PSP service completion and outcomes in larger and more diverse populations are necessary. Implications for considering and possibly adopting this evidence-informed practice within the nursing profession are provided.
The Utility of Language Models in Cardiology: A Narrative Review of the Benefits and Concerns of ChatGPT-4
Authors: Gala Dhir , Makaryus Amgad N.
Published: July 2023

Artificial intelligence (AI) and language models such as ChatGPT-4 (Generative Pretrained Transformer) have made tremendous advances recently and are rapidly transforming the landscape of medicine. Cardiology is among many of the specialties that utilize AI with the intention of improving patient care. Generative AI, with the use of its advanced machine learning algorithms, has the potential to diagnose heart disease and recommend management options suitable for the patient. This may lead to improved patient outcomes not only by recommending the best treatment plan but also by increasing physician efficiency. Language models could assist physicians with administrative tasks, allowing them to spend more time on patient care. However, there are several concerns with the use of AI and language models in the field of medicine. These technologies may not be the most up-to-date with the latest research and could provide outdated information, which may lead to an adverse event. Secondly, AI tools can be expensive, leading to increased healthcare costs and reduced accessibility to the general population. There is also concern about the loss of the human touch and empathy as AI becomes more mainstream. Healthcare professionals would need to be adequately trained to utilize these tools. While AI and language models have many beneficial traits, all healthcare providers need to be involved and aware of generative AI so as to assure its optimal use and mitigate any potential risks and challenges associated with its implementation. In this review, we discuss the various uses of language models in the field of cardiology.
Neoadjuvant Immunotherapy: A Promising New Standard of Care
Authors: Boydell Emma , Sandoval Jose L. , Michielin Olivier , Obeid Michel , Addeo Alfredo , Friedlaender Alex
Published: July 2023

Neoadjuvant immunotherapy has emerged as a promising approach in the treatment of various malignancies, with preclinical studies showing improved immune responses in the preoperative setting. FDA-approved neoadjuvant-immunotherapy-based approaches include triple-negative breast cancer and early non-small cell lung cancer on the basis of improvement in pathological response and event free survival. Nevertheless, current trials have only shown benefits in a fraction of patients. It is therefore crucial to identify predictive biomarkers to improve patient selection for such approaches. This review aims to provide an overview of potential biomarkers of neoadjuvant immunotherapy in early triple-negative breast cancer, bladder cancer, melanoma, non-small cell lung cancer, colorectal cancer and gastric cancer. By the extrapolation of the metastatic setting, we explore known predictive biomarkers, i.e., PD-L1, mismatch repair deficiency and tumour mutational burden, as well as potential early-disease-specific biomarkers. We also discuss the challenges of identifying reliable biomarkers and the need for standardized protocols and guidelines for their validation and clinical implementation.
Glycosylation of Quercetin by Selected Entomopathogenic Filamentous Fungi and Prediction of Its Products’ Bioactivity
Authors: Tronina Tomasz , Łużny Mateusz , Dymarska Monika , Urbaniak Monika , Kozłowska Ewa , Piegza Michał , Stępień Łukasz , Janeczko Tomasz
Published: July 2023

Quercetin is the most abundant flavonoid in food products, including berries, apples, cauliflower, tea, cabbage, nuts, onions, red wine and fruit juices. It exhibits various biological activities and is used for medical applications, such as treating allergic, inflammatory and metabolic disorders, ophthalmic and cardiovascular diseases, and arthritis. However, its low water solubility may limit quercetin’s therapeutic potential. One method of increasing the solubility of active compounds is their coupling to polar molecules, such as sugars. The attachment of a glucose unit impacts the stability and solubility of flavonoids and often determines their bioavailability and bioactivity. Entomopathogenic fungi are biocatalysts well known for their ability to attach glucose and its 4-O-methyl derivative to bioactive compounds, including flavonoids. We investigated the ability of cultures of entomopathogenic fungi belonging to Beauveria, Isaria, Metapochonia, Lecanicillium and Metarhizium genera to biotransform quercetin. Three major glycosylation products were detected: (1), 7-O-β-D-(4″-O-methylglucopyranosyl)-quercetin, (2) 3-O-β-D-(4″-O-methylglucopyranosyl)-quercetin and (3) 3-O-β-D-(glucopyranosyl)-quercetin. The results show evident variability of the biotransformation process, both between strains of the tested biocatalysts from different species and between strains of the same species. Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of the obtained compounds were predicted with the use of cheminformatics tools. The study showed that the obtained compounds may have applications as effective modulators of intestinal flora and may be stronger hepato-, cardio- and vasoprotectants and free radical scavengers than quercetin.
A FRET-Based Assay for the Identification of PCNA Inhibitors
Authors: Hardebeck Sarah , Schreiber Sebastian , Adick Annika , Langer Klaus , Jose Joachim
Published: July 2023

Proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) is the key regulator of human DNA metabolism. One important interaction partner is p15, involved in DNA replication and repair. Targeting the PCNA–p15 interaction is a promising therapeutic strategy against cancer. Here, a Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET)-based assay for the analysis of the PCNA–p15 interaction was developed. Next to the application as screening tool for the identification and characterization of PCNA–p15 interaction inhibitors, the assay is also suitable for the investigation of mutation-induced changes in their affinity. This is particularly useful for analyzing disease associated PCNA or p15 variants at the molecular level. Recently, the PCNA variant C148S has been associated with Ataxia-telangiectasia-like disorder type 2 (ATLD2). ATLD2 is a neurodegenerative disease based on defects in DNA repair due to an impaired PCNA. Incubation time dependent FRET measurements indicated no effect on PCNAC148S–p15 affinity, but on PCNA stability. The impaired stability and increased aggregation behavior of PCNAC148S was confirmed by intrinsic tryptophan fluorescence, differential scanning fluorimetry (DSF) and asymmetrical flow field-flow fractionation (AF4) measurements. The analysis of the disease associated PCNA variant demonstrated the versatility of the interaction assay as developed.
Structural Speciation of Ti(IV)-(α-Hydroxycarboxylic Acid) Complexes in Metabolism-Related (Patho)Physiology—In Vitro Approaches to (Pre)Adipocyte Differentiation and Mineralization
Authors: Tsave Olga , Iordanidou Catherine , Hatzidimitriou Antonios , Yavropoulou Maria P. , Kassi Eva N. , Nasiri-Ansari Narjes , Gabriel Catherine , Salifoglou Athanasios
Published: July 2023

The prospect of developing soluble and bioavailable Ti(IV) complex forms with physiological substrates, capable of influencing (patho)physiological aberrations, emerges as a challenge in the case of metabolism-related pathologies (e.g., diabetes mellitus 1 and 2). To that end, pH-specific synthetic efforts on binary Ti(IV)-(α-hydroxycarboxylic acid) systems, involving natural physiological chelator ligands (α-hydroxy isobutyric acid, D-quinic acid, 2-ethyl-2-hydroxybutyric acid) in aqueous media, led to the successful isolation of binary crystalline Ti(IV)-containing products. The new materials were physicochemically characterized by elemental analysis, FT-IR, TGA, and X-ray crystallography, revealing in all cases the presence of mononuclear Ti(IV) complexes bearing a TiO6 core, with three bound ligands of variable deprotonation state. Solution studies through electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) revealed the nature of species arising upon dissolution of the title compounds in water, thereby formulating a solid-state–solution correlation profile necessary for further employment in biological experiments. The ensuing cytotoxicity profile (pre-adipocytes and osteoblasts) of the new materials supported their use in cell differentiation experiments, thereby unraveling their structure-specific favorable effect toward adipogenesis and mineralization through an arsenal of in vitro biological assays. Collectively, well-defined atoxic binary Ti(IV)-hydroxycaboxylato complexes, bearing bound physiological substrates, emerge as competent inducers of cell differentiation, intimately associated with cell maturation, thereby (a) associating the adipogenic (insulin mimetic properties) and osteogenic potential (mineralization) of titanium and (b) justifying further investigation into the development of a new class of multipotent titanodrugs.
Choosing Variant Interpretation Tools for Clinical Applications: Context Matters
Authors: Aguirre Josu , Padilla Natàlia , Özkan Selen , Riera Casandra , Feliubadaló Lídia , de la Cruz Xavier
Published: July 2023

Pathogenicity predictors are computational tools that classify genetic variants as benign or pathogenic; this is currently a major challenge in genomic medicine. With more than fifty such predictors available, selecting the most suitable tool for clinical applications like genetic screening, molecular diagnostics, and companion diagnostics has become increasingly challenging. To address this issue, we have developed a cost-based framework that naturally considers the various components of the problem. This framework encodes clinical scenarios using a minimal set of parameters and treats pathogenicity predictors as rejection classifiers, a common practice in clinical applications where low-confidence predictions are routinely rejected. We illustrate our approach in four examples where we compare different numbers of pathogenicity predictors for missense variants. Our results show that no single predictor is optimal for all clinical scenarios and that considering rejection yields a different perspective on classifiers.
Trypanosoma cruzi Secreted Cyclophilin TcCyP19 as an Early Marker for Trypanocidal Treatment Efficiency
Authors: Perrone Alina E. , Pinillo Mariana , Rial Marcela S. , Fernández Marisa , Milduberger Natalia , González Carolina , Bustos Patricia L. , Fichera Laura E. , Laucella Susana A. , Albareda María Cecilia , Bua Jacqueline
Published: July 2023

Cyclophilins (CyPs) are a family of enzymes involved in protein folding. Trypanosoma cruzi, the causative agent of Chagas disease, has a 19-kDa cyclophilin, TcCyP19, that was found to be secreted in parasite stages of the CL Brener clone and recognized by sera from T. cruzi-infected mice and patients. The levels of specific antibodies against TcCyP19 in T. cruzi-infected mice and subjects before and after drug treatment were measured by an in-house enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Mice in the acute and chronic phase of infection, with successful trypanocidal treatments, showed significantly lower anti-TcCyP19 antibody levels than untreated mice. In children and adults chronically infected with T. cruzi, a significant decrease in the anti-TcCyP19 titers was observed after 12 months of etiological treatment. This decrease was maintained in adult chronic patients followed-up 30–38 months post-treatment. These results encourage further studies on TcCyP19 as an early biomarker of trypanocidal treatment efficiency.
Pregnancy, Breastfeeding, and Vitamin D
Authors: Durá-Travé Teodoro , Gallinas-Victoriano Fidel
Published: July 2023

Exclusive breastfeeding is considered the ideal food in the first six months of life; however, paradoxically, vitamin D content in human breast milk is clearly low and insufficient to obtain the recommended intake of 400 IU daily. This article summarizes the extraordinary metabolism of vitamin D during pregnancy and its content in human breast milk. The prevalence of hypovitaminosis D in pregnant women and/or nursing mothers and its potential maternal–fetal consequences are analyzed. The current guidelines for vitamin D supplementation in pregnant women, nursing mothers, and infants to prevent hypovitaminosis D in breastfed infants are detailed. Low vitamin D content in human breast milk is probably related to active changes in human lifestyle habits (reduced sunlight exposure).
Effect of Exogenous Plant Growth Regulators and Rejuvenation Measures on the Endogenous Hormone and Enzyme Activity Responses of Acer mono Maxim in Cuttage Rooting
Authors: Zhou Xinxin , Li Ruyue , Shen Hailong , Yang Ling
Published: July 2023

The cuttage rooting method for Acer species is difficult to achieve a good efficacy as trees maintain good characteristics at the rejuvenation stage, thus improving the rooting of Acer species. The addition of exogenous hormones and rejuvenation can improve the rooting effect of cuttings; however, the specific regulatory mechanism is still unclear. Here, Acer mono Maxim rejuvenation and non-rejuvenation cuttings were used as test subjects, to investigate the effects of exogenous hormones on the activities of endogenous hormones and antioxidant enzymes in the rooting process of young cuttings. The results showed that exogenous growth-regulating substances significantly improved the rooting rate of A. mono. Exogenous hormones naphthylacetic acid (NAA) + indolebutyric acid (IBA) increased the initial levels of the endogenous hormones, indoleacetic acid (IAA) and abscisic acid (ABA), and the enzyme activities of peroxidase (POD) and polyphenol oxidase (PPO). Rejuvenation treatment prolonged the time of increase in ABA content and indoleacetic acid oxidase (IAAO) activity at the root primordium induction stage, while increasing trans-zeatin riboside (ZR) content and decreasing POD enzyme activity in cuttings. These results demonstrate that A. mono cuttings can achieve the purpose of improving the rooting rate by adding the exogenous hormone (NAA + IBA), which is closely related to the changes of endogenous hormone content and enzyme activity, and these changes of A. mono rejuvenation cuttings are different from non-rejuvenation cuttings.
MoO3 Solubility and Chemical Durability of V2O5-Bearing Borosilicate Glass
Authors: Nagata Minako , Sugawara Toru
Published: July 2023

In the vitrification of high-level radioactive liquid waste (HLW), the separation of sodium-molybdate melts is a problem because it reduces the chemical durability of the vitrified waste. A glass with both high MoO3 solubility and chemical durability is required for the safe disposal of radioactive waste. In this study, we investigate the effects of vanadium oxide on the phase separation of the molybdenum-rich phase and the water resistance of the resulting glass by phase equilibrium experiments and chemical durability test. Phase equilibrium experiments were performed on SiO2-B2O3-Al2O3-ZnO-CaO-Na2O-LiO2-MoO3 system glasses and on glasses with V2O5 added. The results showed that MoO3 solubility increased when V2O5 was added. The increase in MoO3 solubility in borosilicate melts may be associated with the viscosity-lowering effect of V2O5. Chemical durability tests were performed on borosilicate glass compositions obtained from phase equilibrium experiments. The normalized leaching rates of V2O5-bearing glasses were higher than those of other glasses. This is due to the higher network modifier/network former ratio of the glass tested. The normalized elemental mass loss of glass containing waste components increases with increasing leaching duration. This suggests that the waste component prevents the formation of a gel layer at the reaction front.
A Novel Deep Learning Model for Accurate Pest Detection and Edge Computing Deployment
Authors: Kang Huangyi , Ai Luxin , Zhen Zengyi , Lu Baojia , Man Zhangli , Yi Pengyu , Li Manzhou , Lin Li
Published: July 2023

In this work, an attention-mechanism-enhanced method based on a single-stage object detection model was proposed and implemented for the problem of rice pest detection. A multi-scale feature fusion network was first constructed to improve the model’s predictive accuracy when dealing with pests of different scales. Attention mechanisms were then introduced to enable the model to focus more on the pest areas in the images, significantly enhancing the model’s performance. Additionally, a small knowledge distillation network was designed for edge computing scenarios, achieving a high inference speed while maintaining a high accuracy. Experimental verification on the IDADP dataset shows that the model outperforms current state-of-the-art object detection models in terms of precision, recall, accuracy, mAP, and FPS. Specifically, a mAP of 87.5% and an FPS value of 56 were achieved, significantly outperforming other comparative models. These results sufficiently demonstrate the effectiveness and superiority of the proposed method.
Consistent Correlation between MTHFR and Vascular Thrombosis in Neonates—Case Series and Clinical Considerations
Authors: Cirstoveanu Catalin , Calin Nicoleta , Heriseanu Carmen , Filip Cristina , Vasile Corina Maria , Margarint Irina , Marcu Veronica , Dimitriu Mihai , Ples Liliana , Tarnoveanu Sorin , Bizubac Mihaela
Published: July 2023

Background: MTHFR polymorphism has been inconsistently linked to thrombotic events—some studies have shown its contribution to venous thrombosis, arterial thrombosis, and ischemic stroke, whereas others have found no statistically significant correlation between them. Methods: A descriptive case series study was performed in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of “Marie Sklodowska Curie” Emergency Clinical Hospital for Children in Bucharest, Romania. Results: All patients had positive results for MTHFR variants; 14 patients were positive for compound heterozygosity, 13 patients for MTHFR C677T (seven of which were homozygous), and 13 patients for MTHFR A1298C (three of which were homozygous). Eighteen patients received anticoagulants (heparin, enoxaparin, or bivalirudin), and thrombolytics (alteplase) were administered in six cases. In one case, a thrombectomy was performed; in another, vascular plasty was undertaken. Only in six cases was complete revascularization possible. Incomplete revascularization occurred for one patient with a negative outcome. Conclusion: The particularity of this case series is that every patient in our unit who developed thrombi had a positive genetic result for MTHFR mutations. MTHFR mutations should be regarded as a thrombotic risk factor for critically ill patients, and screening for MTHFR mutations should be performed in every admitted patient to intensive care units, thus achieving the prevention of thrombi.
Magnesium-Rich Calcium Phosphate Derived from Tilapia Bone Has Superior Osteogenic Potential
Authors: Cao Xiaxin , Zhu Jiaqi , Zhang Changze , Xian Jiaru , Li Mengting , Nath Varma Swastina , Qin Ziyu , Deng Qiaoyuan , Zhang Xinyue , Yang Wei , Liu Chaozong
Published: July 2023

We extracted magnesium-rich calcium phosphate bioceramics from tilapia bone using a gradient thermal treatment approach and investigated their chemical and physicochemical properties. X-ray diffraction showed that tilapia fish bone-derived hydroxyapatite (FHA) was generated through the first stage of thermal processing at 600–800 °C. Using FHA as a precursor, fish bone biphasic calcium phosphate (FBCP) was produced after the second stage of thermal processing at 900–1200 °C. The beta-tricalcium phosphate content in the FBCP increased with an increasing calcination temperature. The fact that the lattice spacing of the FHA and FBCP was smaller than that of commercial hydroxyapatite (CHA) suggests that Mg-substituted calcium phosphate was produced via the gradient thermal treatment. Both the FHA and FBCP contained considerable quantities of magnesium, with the FHA having a higher concentration. In addition, the FHA and FBCP, particularly the FBCP, degraded faster than the CHA. After one day of degradation, both the FHA and FBCP released Mg2+, with cumulative amounts of 4.38 mg/L and 0.58 mg/L, respectively. Furthermore, the FHA and FBCP demonstrated superior bone-like apatite formation; they are non-toxic and exhibit better osteoconductive activity than the CHA. In light of our findings, bioceramics originating from tilapia bone appear to be promising in biomedical applications such as fabricating tissue engineering scaffolds.
Effect of Potato Glycoside Alkaloids on Energy Metabolism of Fusarium solani
Authors: Zhang Chongqing , Ding Dedong , Wang Bin , Wang Yupeng , Li Nan , Li Ruiyun , Yan Yuke , He Jing
Published: July 2023

Fusarium solani is one of the primary pathogens causing root rot of wolfberry. The aims of this study were to investigate the inhibitory effect of potato glycoside alkaloids (PGA) on F. solani and its energy metabolism. In this study, the effects of PGA treatment on the growth and development of F. solani were investigated and the changes in the glycolytic pathway (EMP), ATPase activity, mitochondrial complex activity, mitochondrial structure, and energy charge level were analyzed to elucidate the possible antifungal mechanism of PGA on F. solani. The results showed that PGA treatment inhibited the colony growth, biomass, and spore germination of F. solani. PGA treatment reduced the glucose content and Hexokinase (HK) activity of F. solani, but increased the activity of Fructose-6-Phosphate Kinase (PFK) and Pyruvate Kinase (PK) and promoted the accumulation of pyruvic acid. In addition, PGA treatment inhibited the activities of H+-ATPase, Ca2+-ATPase, and mitochondrial complex IV, increased the mitochondrial inner membrane Ca2+ content and mitochondrial membrane permeability transition pore, and decreased the contents of ATP, ADP, and AMP as well as the energy charge. These results indicate that PGA treatment inhibits the growth and development of F. solani, activates the glycolysis pathway, inhibits ATPase activity and mitochondrial complex activity, and destroys the structure and function of mitochondrial membrane, resulting in a lower energy charge level.
Analysis of the Comorbid Course of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Kotlyarov Stanislav
Published: July 2023

(1) Background. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) has a heterogeneous natural history, manifested both in the variability of clinical features and in association with various comorbid pathologies. Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is of great clinical importance and contributes significantly to the natural history and prognosis of COPD. The present study aimed to evaluate the nature of the comorbid course of COPD during a 15-year follow-up. (2) Methods: A total of 170 male COPD patients were included in this study. Spirometry values, symptom severity, presence of risk factors, and comorbidities were considered. Prognostic factors were evaluated using the Kaplan–Meier method. (3) Results: ASCVD was the most common comorbidity and the main cause of death in patients with COPD. Patients with comorbid COPD and ASCVD had more severe dyspnea, higher frequency of COPD exacerbations, and worse survival than patients without ASCVD (p < 0.01). Among patients with COPD, the risk of death from ASCVD was higher in those older than 60 years (OR 3.23, 95% CI [1.72, 6.07]), those with rapidly declining FEV1 (OR 4.35, 95% CI [2.28, 8.30]), those with more than two exacerbations per year (OR 3.21, 95% CI [1.71, 6.11]), and those with a pack year index greater than 30 (OR 2.75, 95% CI [1.38, 5.51]. High Charlson comorbidity index scores in patients with COPD were associated with a more severe disease course, including severity of dyspnea, frequency of exacerbations, and multivariate index scores. A high Charlson comorbidity index score was an adverse prognostic factor. (4) Conclusions: ASCVD influences the course of the disease and is a major cause of mortality in COPD patients.
Intraoperative Monitoring of the Facial Nerve during Microvascular Decompression for Hemifacial Spasm
Authors: Jeon Chiman , Jung Na Young , Kim Minsoo , Park Kwan
Published: July 2023

This review article discusses the clinical significance of intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring (IONM), provides recommendations for monitoring protocols, and considers the interpretation of results in microvascular decompression (MVD) for hemifacial spasm (HFS). The lateral spread response (LSR) is an important monitoring parameter during MVD. It helps to identify the responsible blood vessel and confirms its thorough decompression from the facial nerve. The disappearance of the LSR during surgery is associated with favorable clinical outcomes. Standard and revised monitoring protocols and the confirmation of LSR persistence and disappearance are also discussed. The blink reflex and other facial nerve monitoring modalities, such as free-running electromyography, facial motor evoked potentials, F-waves, and the Z-L response, are further considered.