bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tibial Spine Avulsion Fractures in Paediatric Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Surgical Management
Authors: Chandanani Mehak , Jaibaji Raian , Jaibaji Monketh , Volpin Andrea
Published: March 2024

Background: Tibial spine avulsion fractures (TSAFs) account for approximately 14% of anterior cruciate ligament injuries. This study aims to systematically review the current evidence for the operative management of paediatric TSAFs. Methods: A search was carried out across four databases: MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Studies discussing the outcomes of the surgical management of paediatric TSAFs since 2000 were included. Results: Of 38 studies included for review, 13 studies reported outcomes of TSAF patients undergoing screw fixation only, and 12 studies used suture fixation only. In total, 976 patients underwent arthroscopic reduction and internal fixation (ARIF), and 203 patients underwent open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF). The risk of arthrofibrosis with the use of ARIF (p = 0.45) and screws (p = 0.74) for TSAF repair was not significant. There was a significantly increased risk of knee instability (p < 0.0001), reoperation (p = 0.01), and post-operative pain (p = 0.007) with screw fixation compared to sutures. Conclusions: While the overall benefits of sutures over screws and ARIF over ORIF are unclear, there is clear preference for ARIF and suture fixation for TSAF repair in practice. We recommend large-scale comparative studies to delineate long-term outcomes for various TSAF fixation techniques.
False-Positive Asymmetrical Tongue Muscle 18F-FDG Uptake in Hypoglossal Nerve Paralysis Following Lymph Node Dissection in a Pediatric Patient with Malignant Rhabdoid Tumor of the Neck
Authors: Matsumoto Yuta , Matsui Motohiro , Makidono Akari , Makimoto Atsushi , Yuza Yuki
Published: March 2024

Background: Although positron emission tomography combined with computed tomography (PET-CT) plays an important role in detecting various types of childhood malignancy, it has low positive predictive value, owing to the nonspecific uptake of 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) by normal tissue in various benign conditions. Case summary: A 5-year-old male patient with a malignant rhabdoid tumor originating in the left neck underwent primary tumor resection concurrently with ipsilateral lymph node dissection after receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy consisting of cyclophosphamide, carboplatin, etoposide, vincristine, and doxorubicin. He later received the same adjuvant chemotherapy as well as proton therapy for the primary tumor. Sixteen months after completing the initial therapy, follow-up PET-CT revealed a novel area of glucose hypermetabolism in the right side of the tongue, which was suspected of being a recurrence. However, a physical examination and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) demonstrated no evidence of tumor recurrence. The patient had a significant leftward deviation of the tongue, suggesting left hypoglossal nerve paralysis. Denervation of the ipsilateral intrinsic tongue muscles secondary to the treatment had caused atrophy in the ipsilateral muscles and compensatory hypertrophy in the contralateral muscles, which increased FDG uptake. Physicians should carefully confirm any diagnosis of a locally recurrent tumor because PET-CT often produces ambiguous findings.
Procalcitonin and Presepsin as Markers of Infectious Respiratory Diseases in Children: A Scoping Review of the Literature
Authors: Sodero Giorgio , Gentili Carolina , Mariani Francesco , Pulcinelli Valentina , Valentini Piero , Buonsenso Danilo
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Procalcitonin and presepsin have been suggested to be able to discriminate bacterial and viral infections, also in children. This scoping review aims to better explore the available evidence around the potential role of these biomarkers in the subgroup of children with respiratory infectious diseases. Methods: We performed a systematic scoping review of studies published until March 2023 in the following bibliographic databases: PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane and SCOPUS. Results: In children with bacterial infection, procalcitonin values ranged from 0.5 ng/mL to 8.31 ng/dL, while in those hospitalized in an intensive care unit ranged from 0.6 ng/dL to 452.8 ng/dL with PCR from 2 ng/dL to 51.7 ng/dL. In children with viral infections, procalcitonin value values ranged from 0.2 ng/dL to 0.84 ng/dL, while in those hospitalized in an intensive care unit ranged from 0.61 ng/dL to 46.6 ng/dL. No studies on presepsin in children with respiratory infections were retrieved. Conclusions: Although the available literature is highly heterogeneous, evidence does not suggest a role of procalcitonin in accurately differentiating bacterial and viral infections in children with respiratory infections. In future, new approaches based on multiple markers may better help determine which febrile children require antibiotics.
Comparison of Two Methods for Weaning from Nasal Continuous Positive Airway Pressure via the Cyclic Use of High-Flow Nasal Cannula or Room Air in Preterm Infants
Authors: Yang Shu-Ting , Chung Hao-Wei , Chen Hsiu-Lin
Published: March 2024

Nasal continuous positive airway pressure (NCPAP) is extensively used for preterm infants experiencing respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). Weaning from NCPAP includes direct weaning or gradually extending room air exposure. However, a high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) is an alternative weaning method. Therefore, this study evaluated the clinical outcomes of HFNC and progressively increasing room air duration as weaning strategies. This study enrolled 46 preterm infants with RDS receiving NCPAP support who underwent the cyclic use of NCPAP and HFNC weaning protocol as the HFNC group; a retrospective analysis included 87 preterm infants weaned from NCPAP by gradually extending room air duration as the room air group. Differences in clinical conditions, complications, and short-term outcomes between the weaning methods were compared. The mean post-menstrual age at initiating NCPAP weaning was lower in the room air group than in the HFNC group (mean ± SD, 35.2 ± 2.3 weeks vs. 33.2 ± 2.5 weeks, p < 0.001). Hospital stay duration and total respiratory therapy days were longer in the HFNC group (96 ± 38 days and 80 ± 37 days, respectively) than in the room air group (78 ± 28 days and 56 ± 25 days, respectively), with p-values of 0.006 and <0.001. In conclusion, employing HFNC for weaning from NCPAP resulted in longer hospital admissions and respiratory therapy days than the room air method. However, further studies with a larger sample size are warranted for a more comprehensive evaluation, given the limited number of enrolled patients.
WEA-Acceptance Data—A Dataset of Acoustic, Meteorological, and Operational Wind Turbine Measurements
Authors: Schössow Daphne , Preihs Stephan , Peissig Jürgen
Published: March 2024

In this article, a dataset is described which combines wind turbine supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA), meteorological and acoustical data and thus gives a detailed description of a wind farm and its atmospheric and acoustic environment. The data were collected during different seasons for several weeks at a time, such that a multitude of environmental and operational conditions are covered. In five measurement campaigns, in total three different locations with similar surroundings were captured. The raw data were enhanced with derived values such as atmospheric stability or direction of sound propagation. Data of one month including all time series measurements as well as monophonic audio recordings are now published. The dataset also contains three exemplary use cases along with documents that describe the data pre-processing.
Exact Results for Non-Newtonian Transport Properties in Sheared Granular Suspensions: Inelastic Maxwell Models and BGK-Type Kinetic Model
Authors: Gómez González Rubén , Garzó Vicente
Published: March 2024

The Boltzmann kinetic equation for dilute granular suspensions under simple (or uniform) shear flow (USF) is considered to determine the non-Newtonian transport properties of the system. In contrast to previous attempts based on a coarse-grained description, our suspension model accounts for the real collisions between grains and particles of the surrounding molecular gas. The latter is modeled as a bath (or thermostat) of elastic hard spheres at a given temperature. Two independent but complementary approaches are followed to reach exact expressions for the rheological properties. First, the Boltzmann equation for the so-called inelastic Maxwell models (IMM) is considered. The fact that the collision rate of IMM is independent of the relative velocity of the colliding spheres allows us to exactly compute the collisional moments of the Boltzmann operator without the knowledge of the distribution function. Thanks to this property, the transport properties of the sheared granular suspension can be exactly determined. As a second approach, a Bhatnagar–Gross–Krook (BGK)-type kinetic model adapted to granular suspensions is solved to compute the velocity moments and the velocity distribution function of the system. The theoretical results (which are given in terms of the coefficient of restitution, the reduced shear rate, the reduced background temperature, and the diameter and mass ratios) show, in general, a good agreement with the approximate analytical results derived for inelastic hard spheres (IHS) by means of Grad’s moment method and with computer simulations performed in the Brownian limiting case (m/mg→∞, where mg and m are the masses of the particles of the molecular and granular gases, respectively). In addition, as expected, the IMM and BGK results show that the temperature and non-Newtonian viscosity exhibit an S shape in a plane of stress–strain rate (discontinuous shear thickening, DST). The DST effect becomes more pronounced as the mass ratio m/mg increases.
Smart Readiness Indicator (SRI) as a Decision-Making Tool for Low Carbon Buildings
Authors: Chatzikonstantinidis Konstantinos , Giama Effrosyni , Fokaides Paris A. , Papadopoulos Agis M.
Published: March 2024

According to the European Energy Efficiency Directive for Buildings, member states are required to develop long-term strategies to adopt more sustainable, secure, and decarbonized energy systems in buildings by 2050. In this line of approach, an optional common regime has been established to define and calculate the smart readiness of buildings and assess their ability to adapt their operation to the needs of the occupants and the network. Thus, the smart readiness indicator (SRI) emerged, which assesses technological readiness by examining the presence and evaluation of the functionality level of various smart services, aiming at energy savings, the ability of the building to respond to users’ needs, and energy flexibility. This paper focuses on examining the SRI calculation methodology’s application to an office building, which is currently being deeply renovated. Initially, there is an analysis of the SRI, its calculation methodology, and its goals. This is followed by the practical calculation part of the SRI for a typical office building located in Greece and belonging to the climate zone of southern Europe. The results indicate that the SRIs application is not a straightforward issue since parameters that need to be considered are not regulated to the same degree. On the other hand, SRI can provide a stimulus for exploiting the renovation potential of buildings, precisely by integrating the various aspects and linking those to the use of innovative technologies.
Circular Economy for the Energy System as a Leverage for Low-Carbon Transition: Long-Term Analysis of the Case of the South-East Region of France
Authors: Andrade Carlos , Selosse Sandrine
Published: March 2024

The circular economy is a decisive strategy for reconciling economic development and the environment. In France, the CE was introduced into the law in 2015 with the objective of closing the loop. The legislation also delegates energy policy towards the French regions by granting them the jurisdiction to directly plan the energy–climate issues on their territory and to develop local energy resources. Thereby, the SUD PACA region has redefined its objectives and targeted carbon neutrality and the transition to a CE by 2050. To study this transition, we developed a TIMESPACA optimization model. The results show that following a CE perspective to develop a local energy system could contribute to reducing CO2 emissions by 50% in final energy consumption and reaching almost free electricity production. To obtain greater reductions, the development of the regional energy systems should follow a careful policy design favoring the transition to low energy-consuming behavior and the strategical allocation of resources across the different sectors. Biomethane should be allocated to the buildings and industrial sector, while hydrogen should be deployed for buses and freight transport vehicles.
Lightweight Arc Fault Detection Method Based on Adam-Optimized Neural Network and Hardware Feature Algorithm
Authors: Chen Wei , Han Yi , Zhao Jie , Chen Chong , Zhang Bin , Wu Ziran , Lin Zhenquan
Published: March 2024

Arc faults are the main cause of electrical fires according to national fire data statistics. Intensive studies of artificial intelligence-based arc fault detection methods have been carried out and achieved a high detection accuracy. However, the computational complexity of the artificial intelligence-based methods hinders their application for arc fault detection devices. This paper proposes a lightweight arc fault detection method based on the discrimination of a novel feature for lower current distortion conditions and the Adam-optimized BP neural network for higher distortion conditions. The novel feature is the pulse signal number per unit cycle, reflecting the zero-off phenomena of the arc current. Six features, containing the novel feature, are chosen as the inputs of the neural network, reducing the computational complexity. The model achieves a high detection accuracy of 99.27% under various load types recommended by the IEC 62606 standard. Finally, the proposed lightweight method is implemented on hardware based on the STM32 series microcontroller unit. The experimental results show that the average detection accuracy is 98.33%, while the average detection time is 45 ms and the average tripping time is 72–201 ms under six types of loads, which can fulfill the requirements of real-time detection for commercial arc fault detection devices.
Green Hydrogen Value Chain: Modelling of a PV Power Plant Integrated with H2 Production for Industry Application
Authors: Machado Hugo , Ferreira Ana Cristina , Teixeira Senhorinha F. , Teixeira José Carlos
Published: March 2024

Based on the Sustainable Development Goals outlined in the 2030 agenda of the United Nations, affordable and clean energy is one of the most relevant goals to achieve the decarbonization targets and break down the global climate change effects. The use of renewable energy sources, namely, solar energy, is gaining attention and market share due to reductions in investment costs. Nevertheless, it is important to overcome the energy storage problems, mostly in industrial applications. The integration of photovoltaic power plants with hydrogen production and its storage for further conversion to usable electricity are an interesting option from both the technical and economic points of view. The main objective of this study is to analyse the potential for green hydrogen production and storage through PV production, based on technical data and operational considerations. We also present a conceptual model and the configuration of a PV power plant integrated with hydrogen production for industry supply. The proposed power plant configuration identifies different pathways to improve energy use: supply an industrial facility, supply the hydrogen production and storage unit, sell the energy surplus to the electrical grid and provide energy to a backup battery. One of the greatest challenges for the proposed model is the component sizing and water electrolysis process for hydrogen production due to the operational requirements and the technology costs.
“Towards Sustainable Development: Analyzing the Viability and Integration of Renewable Energy Solutions in South Africa”—A Review
Authors: Kumba Hagreaves , Olanrewaju Oludolapo Akanni
Published: March 2024

The global economy faces increasing environmental challenges and economic instability, prompting the adoption of innovative energy technologies as a crucial strategy. This study addresses the urgent quest for sustainable development in South Africa, specifically by evaluating renewable energy solutions. This study utilizes a comprehensive literature analysis to examine the current state of renewable energy infrastructure, policy frameworks, technological advancements, and economic viability within the South African context. Synthesizing insights from the existing literature on the interplay between energy, economy, and technology, this study aims to provide a refined understanding of renewable energy solutions’ feasibility and integration potential. The exploration of these solutions in South Africa identifies key opportunities, challenges, and implications for sustainable development. These findings offer valuable guidance for policymakers, researchers, and stakeholders in advancing a country’s transition towards a sustainable energy future.
Revolutionizing Demand Response Management: Empowering Consumers through Power Aggregator and Right of Flexibility
Authors: Alhussein Sadeq Neamah Bazoon , Barzamini Roohollah , Ebrahimi Mohammad Reza , Farahani Shoorangiz Shams Shamsabad , Arabian Mohammad , Aliyu Aliyu M. , Sohani Behnaz
Published: March 2024

This paper introduces a groundbreaking approach to demand response management, aiming to empower consumers through innovative strategies. The key contribution is the concept of “acquiring flexibility rights”, wherein consumers engage with power aggregators to curtail energy usage during peak-load periods, receiving incentives in return. A flexibility right coefficient is introduced, allowing consumers to tailor their participation in demand response programs, ensuring their well-being. Additionally, a lighting intensity control system is developed to enhance residential lighting network efficiency. The study demonstrates that high-energy consumers, adopting a satisfaction factor of 10, can achieve over 61% in electricity cost savings by combining the lighting control system and active participation in demand response programs. This not only reduces expenses but also generates income through the sale of flexibility rights. Conversely, low-energy consumers can fully offset their expenses and accumulate over USD 33 in earnings through the installation of solar panels. This paper formulates an optimization problem considering flexibility rights, lighting control, and time-of-use tariff rates. An algorithm is proposed for a distributed solution, and a sensitivity analysis is conducted for evaluation. The proposed method showcases significant benefits, including cost savings and income generation for consumers, while contributing to grid stability and reduced blackout occurrences. Real data from a residential district in Tehran validates the method’s effectiveness. This study concludes that this approach holds promise for demand response management in smart grids, emphasizing the importance of consumer empowerment and sustainable energy practices.
Simulation and Experimental Results for Energy Production Using Hybrid Photovoltaic Thermal Technology
Authors: Grigore Roxana , Vernica Sorin Gabriel , Popa Sorin Eugen , Banu Ioan Viorel
Published: March 2024

This paper offers a theoretical and experimental examination of the concurrent production of electricity and heat using photovoltaic thermal (PV/T) technology. The efficiency performance of the PV/T system is meticulously analyzed using MATLAB/Simulink software environments. Notably, the proposed PV/T system shows reliable performance, and its validity is confirmed through experimental validation on a test stand with a single PV/T panel positioned at a 45-degree angle to the horizontal and a 0-degree azimuth angle. The measurements were conducted during the summer season, and two models were suggested to calculate the overall efficiency of the PV/T system. The variance between the results obtained from the two models was minimal, below 5%. For the examined panel type, the following average values were derived: electrical efficiency = 12.01%, thermal efficiency = 47.21%, and overall efficiency = 59.23%.
Lactic Acid Fermentation in the Food Industry and Bio-Preservation of Food
Authors: Aguirre-Garcia Yulma Lizbeth , Nery-Flores Sendar Daniel , Campos-Muzquiz Lizeth Guadalupe , Flores-Gallegos Adriana Carolina , Palomo-Ligas Lissethe , Ascacio-Valdés Juan Alberto , Sepúlveda-Torres Leonardo , Rodríguez-Herrera Raúl
Published: March 2024

Studies on fermentation by acid lactic bacteria (LAB) have confirmed the presence of strains with attributes of considerable relevance for food processing. These strains, in addition to their ability to modify the texture and flavor of foods, possess beneficial properties for human health. They enhance food quality by making it more nutrient-rich and contribute to food preservation. The production of lactic acid, vitamins, exopolysaccharides, and bacteriocins, among other compounds, confers these properties to LAB. In the realm of preservation, bacteriocins play a crucial role. This is because bacteriocins act by inhibiting the growth and reproduction of unwanted microorganisms by interacting with the cell membrane, causing its rupture. This preservative effect has led LAB to have widespread use during food processing. This preservative effect has led to widespread use of LAB during food processing. This review highlights the importance of fermentation carried out by LAB in the food industry and in the bio-preservation of foods. These findings emphasize the relevance of continuing investigations and harness the properties of LAB in food production.
Sanitizers Used for Fungal Spoilage Control in Dry-Fermented Cured Meat Production
Authors: Silva Sarah , Bernardi Angélica Olivier , Garcia Marcelo Valle , Bisello Thais Nunes , Borstmann Larissa , Copetti Marina Venturini
Published: March 2024

Contamination caused by fungi stands out as a significant microbiological issue in the food industry, particularly leading to premature spoilage across various food segments, including the dry-fermented meat industry. The emergence of undesired fungi on product surfaces results in substantial economic losses. Once microorganisms infiltrate the food, contamination ensues, and their subsequent proliferation can adversely impact the product’s appearance, odor, flavor, and texture. This, in turn, leads to consumer rejection and negatively affects the commercial brand. Additionally, concerns persist regarding the potential presence of mycotoxins in these products. Given the detrimental effects of spoilage fungi in the food industry, practices such as thorough cleaning and sanitization become crucial to prevent contamination and subsequent premature deterioration. These measures play a pivotal role in ensuring the quality and safety of food, while also extending the shelf life of products. This review delves into the advantages, disadvantages, and factors that may influence the efficacy of commonly used sanitizers in the dry-fermented cured meat industry, including substances like sodium hypochlorite, peracetic acid, and benzalkonium chloride.
Habitat Suitability of the Squid Sthenoteuthis oualaniensis in Northern Indian Ocean Based on Different Weights
Authors: Yu Jun , Wen Lihong , Liu Siyuan , Zhang Heng , Fang Zhou
Published: March 2024

Data from the fishery of S. oualaniensis in the northern Indian Ocean from January to March and October to December 2017 to 2019 were modeled with sea surface temperature (SST), wind speed (WS), and photosynthetically active radiation (PAR). In this study, the fishing effort was used to evaluate the suitability index (SI) at SST, WS, and PAR. An integrated habitat suitability model (HSI) was developed with different weighting scenarios and weighting schemes. The optimal case was selected by calculation and comparison with the proportion of catch, effort, and catch per unit effort (CPUE) in the HSI interval (0~0.2, 0.2~0.6, 0.6~1); validation was performed using data from 2019. The weight of the optimal HSI model was 0.25 for sea surface temperature and photosynthetically active radiation, and 0.5 for wind speed. This model yielded the best performance and could accurately predict the fishing ground of S. oualaniensis in the northern Indian Ocean. The findings suggest that the integrated HSI model can predict the distribution of S. oualaniensis commendably, with wind speed as the most important factor affecting the spatial distribution of S. oualaniensis’ habitat in the northern Indian Ocean. By analyzing habitat selection by S. oualaniensis, this study verified and predicted the distribution of squid in the northern Indian Ocean, which allows the distribution of squid resources and fishing grounds to be modeled, and for the sustainable use of squid fishery resources.
“Kauaka e kōrero mō te Awa, kōrero ki te Awa: An Awa-Led Research Methodology” (Don’t Talk about the Awa, Talk with the Awa)
Authors: Johnson Tom
Published: March 2024

Indigenous people continue to develop methods to strengthen and empower genealogical knowledge as a means of conveying histories, illuminating current and past values, and providing important cultural frameworks for understanding their nuanced identities and worlds across time and space. Genealogies are more than simply a record of a family tree; they are a rich tapestry of ancestral links, representing a tradition of thought and connection to entities beyond the human. This article proposes an Iwi-specific methodological approach to conducting research based on the specific paradigms (ontological and epistemological) of Māori (Indigenous peoples of New Zealand) from the region of Te Awa Tupua in the North Island of Aotearoa, New Zealand. A Whanganui world view can be actioned as an operating system within research by developing a bespoke place-based methodology drawing on kōrero tuku iho (ancestral wisdom) to conduct research amongst a genealogical group with whakapapa (genealogical connection) to a distinct geographic locale. This methodological shift allows the inclusion of human research participants and more-than-human, including Te Awa Tupua (an interconnected environment around the Whanganui River) and Te Kāhui Maunga (ancestral mountains that feed the Whanganui river) as living ancestors. Whanganui ways of knowing, doing, and being underpin a worldview that situates Te Awa Tupua and tāngata (people) as inter-related beings that cannot maintain their health and wellbeing without the support of one another.
PCNA Unloading Is Crucial for the Bypass of DNA Lesions Using Homologous Recombination
Authors: Arbel-Groissman Matan , Liefshitz Batia , Katz Nir , Kuryachiy Maxim , Kupiec Martin
Published: March 2024

DNA Damage Tolerance (DDT) mechanisms allow cells to bypass lesions in the DNA during replication. This allows the cells to progress normally through the cell cycle in the face of abnormalities in their DNA. PCNA, a homotrimeric sliding clamp complex, plays a central role in the coordination of various processes during DNA replication, including the choice of mechanism used during DNA damage bypass. Mono-or poly-ubiquitination of PCNA facilitates an error-prone or an error-free bypass mechanism, respectively. In contrast, SUMOylation recruits the Srs2 helicase, which prevents local homologous recombination. The Elg1 RFC-like complex plays an important role in unloading PCNA from the chromatin. We analyze the interaction of mutations that destabilize PCNA with mutations in the Elg1 clamp unloader and the Srs2 helicase. Our results suggest that, in addition to its role as a coordinator of bypass mechanisms, the very presence of PCNA on the chromatin prevents homologous recombination, even in the absence of the Srs2 helicase. Thus, PCNA unloading seems to be a pre-requisite for recombinational repair.
Bone Morphogenic Proteins in Pediatric Diffuse Midline Gliomas: How to Make New Out of Old?
Authors: Berthelot Clément , Huchedé Paul , Bertrand-Chapel Adrien , Beuriat Pierre-Aurélien , Leblond Pierre , Castets Marie
Published: March 2024

The BMP pathway is one of the major signaling pathways in embryonic development, ontogeny and homeostasis, identified many years ago by pioneers in developmental biology. Evidence of the deregulation of its activity has also emerged in many cancers, with complex and sometimes opposing effects. Recently, its role has been suspected in Diffuse Midline Gliomas (DMG), among which Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Gliomas (DIPG) are one of the most complex challenges in pediatric oncology. Genomic sequencing has led to understanding part of their molecular etiology, with the identification of histone H3 mutations in a large proportion of patients. The epigenetic remodeling associated with these genetic alterations has also been precisely described, creating a permissive context for oncogenic transcriptional program activation. This review aims to describe the new findings about the involvement of BMP pathway activation in these tumors, placing their appearance in a developmental context. Targeting the oncogenic synergy resulting from this pathway activation in an H3K27M context could offer new therapeutic perspectives based on targeting treatment-resistant cell states.
High-Precision Integration of Optical Sensors into Metallic Tubes Using Rotary Swaging: Process Phenomena in Joint Formation
Authors: Al-Baradoni Nassr , Heck Philipp , Groche Peter
Published: March 2024

A novel process design for the damage-free and highly accurate positional integration of an optical multi-axial force sensor into a hollow tube by means of rotary swaging is introduced. Numerical simulations reveal the relevant process phenomena of thin disc joining inside a pre-toothed hollow tube and help us to find an optimal process design. Experimental trials show the significant effect of the axial material flow and the number of tools on the rotary swaging process. By taking these effects into account, successful form- and force-fit joining of the sensor carrying discs into the tube can be achieved. Successful joining of an optical sensor for bending force and torque measurement shows hysteresis-free sensory behavior and thus backlash-free joining of the sensor carrier discs. The paper concludes with a presentation of the results of a numerical study on a potential closed-loop approach to the joining process.
Exploring the Implementation Challenges of the Electronic Freight Transport Information (eFTI) Regulation: An Empirical Perspective from Greece
Authors: Dasaklis Thomas K. , Kopanaki Evangelia , Chountalas Panos T. , Rachaniotis Nikolaos P. , Voutsinas Theodore G. , Giannakis Kyriakos , Chondrokoukis Gregory
Published: March 2024

Background: The electronic Freight Transport Information (eFTI) regulation is critical in modernizing freight transport (FT) within the European Union by establishing a framework for the electronic exchange of information. Despite its importance, there is a notable gap in the literature regarding the practical implementation challenges, especially from an empirical perspective. Methods: To address this gap, our study utilized a grounded theory approach, conducting interviews with a diverse group of logistics experts from Greece. The selection of experts was strategic to ensure a comprehensive range of knowledge and expertise, including insights at the policy level as well as practical experiences. Results: Our findings highlight several significant challenges in the implementation of eFTI, including the digital skill gap among the workforce, issues with system interoperability, and diverse capacities and resources of companies of different sizes. Economic factors, regulatory frameworks and the necessity for targeted training and leadership support were also identified as crucial for the digital transition. Conclusions: The study shows that uniform eFTI implementation may not work for all organizations, highlighting the necessity for customized strategies that address specific challenges in the FT chain. Our research deepens the understanding of these issues, providing actionable insights for successful eFTI adoption.
A Noisy Fractional Brownian Motion Model for Multiscale Correlation Analysis of High-Frequency Prices
Authors: Leung Tim , Zhao Theodore
Published: March 2024

We analyze the multiscale behaviors of high-frequency intraday prices, with a focus on how asset prices are correlated over different timescales. The multiscale approach proposed in this paper is designed for the analysis of high-frequency intraday prices. It incorporates microstructure noise into the stochastic price process. We consider a noisy fractional Brownian motion model and illustrate its various statistical properties. This leads us to introduce new latent correlation and noise estimators. New numerical algorithms are developed for model estimation using empirical high-frequency data. For a collection of stocks and exchange-traded funds, examples are provided to illustrate the relationship between multiscale correlation and sampling frequency as well as the evolution of multiscale correlation over time.
Dilatation and Curettage after Uterine Artery Embolization versus Methotrexate Injection for the Treatment of Cesarean Scar Pregnancy: A Single-Center Experience
Authors: Pecorino Basilio , Scibilia Giuseppe , Mignosa Bianca , Teodoro Maria Cristina , Chiofalo Benito , Scollo Paolo
Published: March 2024

Background and Objectives: Cesarean scar pregnancy (CSP) represents a type of ectopic pregnancy in which the embryo implants inside the scar of a previous cesarean section. This condition can lead to maternal morbidity and mortality. The best therapeutic approach in terms of clinical effectiveness and patient safety for CSP has not been described yet, although different therapeutic strategies are currently available. The purpose of the present study was to analyze the success rate of two different treatments in a single institution. Materials and Methods: A retrospective study was performed among patients diagnosed with CSP at the Gynecology and Obstetrics Department of the “Cannizzaro” Hospital in Catania (University of Enna—Italy) from January 2016 to December 2022. The diagnosis was made by 2D/3D transvaginal ultrasound, following Timor-Tritsch criteria. Two treatment strategies were performed: local and systemic methotrexate (MTX) injection and uterine artery embolization (UAE) with subsequent dilatation and curettage (D&C). All treated women underwent subsequent clinical and sonographic follow-up. Complete recovery was defined as the reduction of β-HCG values until it was undetectable and the disappearance of the mass in the uterine scar on ultrasound. Results: Nineteen patients were included; nine were in the MTX group and ten were in the UAE + D&C group. No significant differences were found between the two groups in terms of clinical parameters. Treatment was successful in 4 of 10 (44%) patients in the MTX group and 10 of 10 (100%) in the UAE + D&C group (p = 0.01); the length of hospital stay was significantly shorter in the latter group (p < 0.0001). Conclusions: In our experience, administration of MTX is not recommended as the primary treatment or pre-treatment. Dilatation and curettage after uterine artery embolization are better than methotrexate injection for the treatment of cesarean scar pregnancy in a single-institution series in terms of complete recovery and length of hospital stay.
Mass Spectrometry for Biomedical and Food Analysis
Authors: Li Xianjiang , Ma Wen
Published: March 2024

Biomedical and food analysis has always been an important topic that closely relates to health [...]
Oral Delivery of Astaxanthin via Carboxymethyl Chitosan-Modified Nanoparticles for Ulcerative Colitis Treatment
Authors: Zhang Wen , Zhang Xinping , Lv Xinyi , Qu Ao , Liang Wenjing , Wang Limin , Zhao Pei , Wu Zijian
Published: March 2024

The oral delivery strategy of natural anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory agents has attracted great attention to improve the effectiveness of ulcerative colitis (UC) treatment. Herein, we developed a novel orally deliverable nanoparticle, carboxymethyl chitosan (CMC)-modified astaxanthin (AXT)-loaded nanoparticles (CMC-AXT-NPs), for UC treatment. The CMC-AXT-NPs were evaluated by appearance, morphology, particle size, ζ-potential, and encapsulation efficiency (EE). The results showed that CMC-AXT-NPs were nearly spherical in shape with a particle size of 34.5 nm and ζ-potential of −30.8 mV, and the EE of CMC-AXT-NPs was as high as 95.03%. The CMC-AXT-NPs exhibited preferable storage stability over time and well-controlled drug-release properties in simulated intestinal fluid. Additionally, in vitro studies revealed that CMC-AXT-NPs remarkably inhibited cytotoxicity induced by LPS and demonstrated superior antioxidant and anti-inflammatory abilities in Raw264.7 cells. Furthermore, CMC-AXT-NPs effectively alleviated clinical symptoms of colitis induced by dextran sulfate sodium salt (DSS), including maintaining body weight, inhibiting colon shortening, and reducing fecal bleeding. Importantly, CMC-AXT-NPs suppressed the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines like TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β and ameliorated DSS-induced oxidative damage. Our results demonstrated the potential of CMC-modified nanoparticles as an oral delivery system and suggested these novel AXT nanoparticles could be a promising strategy for UC treatment.
Viscosity Flow Curves of Agar and the Bounded Ripening Growth Model of the Gelation Onset
Authors: Villani Vincenzo
Published: March 2024

The gelation kinetics of agar aqueous solutions were studied by means of the viscosity flow curves using a coaxial Couette cylinder viscometer. The viscosity curves show an unusual sigmoidal trend or an exponential decay to a viscous steady state. An original theory of gelation kinetics was developed considering the coarsening of increasingly larger and more stable clusters due to Ostwald ripening and the breakup of clusters that were too large due to the instability of rotating large particles induced by the shear rate. The developed Bounded Ripening Growth model takes into account the trend of the viscosity curves by means of an autocatalytic process with negative feedback on aggregation according to the logistic kinetic equation, in which the constants k1(γ) and k−(ν) are governed by the surface tension and shear rate, respectively. A dimensionless equation based on the difference between the Weber number and the ratio of the inverse kinetic constant to forward constant, accounts for the behavior of the dispersed phase in equilibrium conditions or far from the hydrostatic equilibrium.
The Indiscriminate Chemical Makeup of Secondary Metabolites Derived from Endophytes Harvested from Aloe barbadensis Miller in South Africa’s Limpopo Region
Authors: Nchabeleng Mpho Mamphoka , Fonkui Thierry Youmbi , Ezekiel Green
Published: March 2024

The efficacy of 23 bacterial isolates obtained from surface-sterilized stems and leaves of three medicinal plants (Aloe barbadensis Miller, Artemisia afra, and Moringa oleifera) was investigated in an endeavour to prevent the growth of Mycobacterium bovis using the cross-streak method. Endophytes were isolated by incubating sterile plant materials on nutrient agar at 30 °C for 5 days. Two isolates showing activity were subsequently utilized to produce the extracts. Whole-genome sequencing (WGC) was used to identify the isolates. Secondary metabolites produced after 7 days of growth in nutrient broth were harvested through extraction with ethyl acetate. The extracts were chemically profiled using gas chromatography–high resolution time-of-flight mass spectrometry (GC–HRTOF-MS). NCBI BLAST search results revealed that the isolated endophytes belonged to the Pseudomonas and Enterobacter genera, based on WGC. Two endophytes, Aloe I4 and Aloe I3–I5 from Aloe barbadensis, exhibited potency based on the cross-streak method. The metabolite profiling of the selected endophytes identified 34 metabolites from Aloe I4, including ergotamine, octadecane, L-proline and 143 other metabolites including quinoline and valeramide, which inhibit microbial quorum sensing. These findings suggest that bacterial endophytes from medicinal plants, particularly Aloe barbadensis, hold promise as sources of antimycobacterial agents for human health applications.
Enzymatic Synthesis of New Acetoacetate–Ursodeoxycholic Acid Hybrids as Potential Therapeutic Agents and Useful Synthetic Scaffolds as Well
Authors: Venturi Valentina , Marchesi Elena , Perrone Daniela , Costa Valentina , Catani Martina , Aprile Simona , Lerin Lindomar Alberto , Zappaterra Federico , Giovannini Pier Paolo , Preti Lorenzo
Published: March 2024

Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) and acetoacetate are natural compounds present in the human intestine and blood, respectively. A number of studies highlighted that besides their well-known primary biological roles, both compounds possess the ability to influence a variety of cellular processes involved in the etiology of various diseases. These reasons suggested the potential of acetoacetate–UDCA hybrids as possible therapeutic agents and prompted us to develop a synthetic strategy to selectively derivatize the hydroxyl groups of the bile acid with acetoacetyl moieties. 3α-acetoacetoxy UDCA was obtained (60% isolated yield) via the regioselective transesterification of methyl acetoacetate with UDCA promoted by the Candida antarctica lipase B (CAL-B). 3α,7β-bis-acetoacetoxy UDCA was obtained instead by thermal condensation of methyl acetoacetate and UDCA (80% isolated yield). This bis-adduct was finally converted to the 7β-acetoacetoxy UDCA (82% isolated yield) via CAL-B catalyzed regioselective alcoholysis of the ester group on the 3α position. In order to demonstrate the value of the above new hybrids as UDCA-based scaffolds, 3α-acetoacetoxy UDCA was subjected to multicomponent Biginelli reaction with benzaldehyde and urea to obtain the corresponding 4-phenyl-3,4-dihydropyrimidin-2-(1H)-one derivative in 65% isolated yield.
Allicin and Cancer Hallmarks
Authors: Talib Wamidh H. , Baban Media Mohammed , Azzam Aya O. , Issa Jenan J. , Ali Alaa Y. , AlSuwais Alia Kh. , Allala Sana , AL Kury Lina T.
Published: March 2024

Natural products, particularly medicinal plants, are crucial in combating cancer and aiding in the discovery and development of new therapeutic agents owing to their biologically active compounds. They offer a promising avenue for developing effective anticancer medications because of their low toxicity, diverse chemical structures, and ability to target various cancers. Allicin is one of the main ingredients in garlic (Allium sativum L.). It is a bioactive sulfur compound maintained in various plant sections in a precursor state. Numerous studies have documented the positive health benefits of this natural compound on many chronic conditions, including gastric, hepatic, breast, lung, cervical, prostate, and colon cancer. Moreover, allicin may target several cancer hallmarks or fundamental biological traits and functions that influence cancer development and spread. Cancer hallmarks include sustained proliferation, evasion of growth suppressors, metastasis, replicative immortality, angiogenesis, resistance to cell death, altered cellular energetics, and immune evasion. The findings of this review should provide researchers and medical professionals with a solid basis to support fundamental and clinical investigations of allicin as a prospective anticancer drug. This review outlines the anticancer role of allicin in each hallmark of cancer.
Cytological, Physiological, and Transcriptomic Analyses of the Leaf Color Mutant Yellow Leaf 20 (yl20) in Eggplant (Solanum melongena L.)
Authors: Li Bing , Zhang Jingjing , Tian Peng , Gao Xiurui , Song Xue , Pan Xiuqing , Wu Yanrong
Published: March 2024

Leaf color mutants are ideal materials for studying chlorophyll metabolism, chloroplast development, and photosynthesis in plants. We discovered a novel eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) mutant yl20 (yellow leaf 20) that exhibits yellow leaves. In this study, we compared the leaves of the mutant yl20 and wild type (WT) plants for cytological, physiological, and transcriptomic analyses. The results showed that the mutant yl20 exhibits abnormal chloroplast ultrastructure, reduced chlorophyll and carotenoid contents, and lower photosynthetic efficiency compared to the WT. Transcriptome data indicated 3267 and 478 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between WT and yl20 lines in the cotyledon and euphylla stages, respectively, where most DEGs were downregulated in the yl20. Gene Ontology (GO) analysis revealed the “plastid-encoded plastid RNA polymerase complex” and the “chloroplast-related” terms were significantly enriched. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis demonstrated that the significantly enriched DEGs were involved in flavone and flavonol biosynthesis, porphyrin and chlorophyll metabolism, etc. We speculated that these DEGs involved in significant terms were closely related to the leaf color development of the mutant yl20. Our results provide a possible explanation for the altered phenotype of leaf color mutants in eggplant and lay a theoretical foundation for plant breeding.
Ultra-Long-Term-EEG Monitoring (ULTEEM) Systems: Towards User-Friendly Out-of-Hospital Recordings of Electrical Brain Signals in Epilepsy
Authors: Yilmaz Gürkan , Seiler Andrea , Chételat Olivier , Schindler Kaspar A.
Published: March 2024

Epilepsy is characterized by the occurrence of epileptic events, ranging from brief bursts of interictal epileptiform brain activity to their most dramatic manifestation as clinically overt bilateral tonic–clonic seizures. Epileptic events are often modulated in a patient-specific way, for example by sleep. But they also reveal temporal patterns not only on ultra- and circadian, but also on multidien scales. Thus, to accurately track the dynamics of epilepsy and to thereby enable and improve personalized diagnostics and therapies, user-friendly systems for long-term out-of-hospital recordings of electrical brain signals are needed. Here, we present two wearable devices, namely ULTEEM and ULTEEMNite, to address this unmet need. We demonstrate how the usability concerns of the patients and the signal quality requirements of the clinicians have been incorporated in the design. Upon testbench verification of the devices, ULTEEM was successfully benchmarked against a reference EEG device in a pilot clinical study. ULTEEMNite was shown to record typical macro- and micro-sleep EEG characteristics in a proof-of-concept study. We conclude by discussing how these devices can be further improved and become particularly useful for a better understanding of the relationships between sleep, epilepsy, and neurodegeneration.