bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mitochondrial Labeling with Mulberrin-Cy3: A New Fluorescent Probe for Live Cell Visualization
Authors: Yuan Gangxiang , Luo Yiwei , Qian Peng , He Ningjia
Published: September 2024

Mitochondria, crucial intracellular organelles, are central to energy metabolism, signal transduc-tion, apoptosis, calcium homeostasis, and a myriad of other biological processes, making them a focal point in diverse research fields. The capacity to fluorescently labeling and visually track mitochondria is crucial for understanding their biological roles. We present Mulberrin-Cy3, a novel small molecule fluorescent probe that selectively labels mitochondria in animal cells, in-cluding cancer cells, with relative ease. This protocol details the synthesis of Mulberrin-Cy3 and its use for visualizing mitochondria in living cells. The synthesis is straightforward and time-efficient, and the labeling method is more accessible than traditional approaches, providing a cost-effective option for mitochondrial visualization at room temperature. The labeling is rapid, with effective labeling achieved within 5 minutes of incubation. The fluorescent signal is stable and brighter, offering a significant advantage over existing methods. Mulberrin-Cy3 represents a promising mitochondrial labeling compound, providing researchers with a novel experimental tool to explore the complex biological functions of mitochondria. This innovation has the potential to significantly advance our comprehension of mitochondrial dynamics and their role in cellular health and disease.
Phenomenological Modeling of TRIP Steels
Authors: Salinas Álvaro , Álvarez Paulina , Tesser Enzo , Celentano Diego , Carvajal Linton , Artigas Alfredo , Monsalve Alberto
Published: September 2024

A constant effort is made in the physical metallurgy of transformation induced plasticity (TRIP) steels. These are multiphase steels, whose mechanical behavior depends on the different phases present, the intrinsic strength of each phase, the work hardening of each constituent and the austenite to martensite transformation, among others. Hard and soft phases can be distinguished in these steels and both stress and strain are distributed between them. The objective of this work was to simulate the stress-strain behavior for two TRIP steels. Bouquerel’s model was modified to account for the initial martensite, a moderate hard austenite and adjustable strain hardening parameters. The austenite fraction that transforms into martensite was computed through an Olson and Cohen model. The Mecking-Kocks model was used to evaluate the increment in the dislocation density and the Rodriguez-Gutierrez model, to compute the hardening of martensite. Ferrite is considered a soft phase, martensite and bainite, hard phases and austenite, a phase with a moderate hardness. The routine was implemented in MATLAB, and results were compared with those obtained experimentally in a tension test of two TRIP steels of the same composition but different heat treatments, obtaining in both cases a good agreement for the stress-strain-curves.
Clinical and Laboratory Parameters Associated with PICU Admission in Children with Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome Associated with COVID-19 (MIS-C)
Authors: Dourdouna Maria-Myrto , Mpourazani Evdoxia , Tatsi Elizabeth-Barbara , Tsirogianni Chrysanthi , Barbaressou Charikleia , Dessypris Nick , Michos Athanasios
Published: September 2024

Background/Objectives: Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in children (MIS-C) is a rare but severe post-infectious complication of COVID-19, that often requires admission to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU). The present study aimed to compare the demographic, clinical and laboratory characteristics between children diagnosed with MIS-C who were admitted to the PICU or did not require PICU admission. Methods: Children diagnosed with MIS-C from September 2020 to April 2023 were included in this case-control study. Patient’s demographic, clinical and laboratory data, were collected from medical records. Results: Fifty children with MIS-C were included in the study [median (IQR) age: 7.5 (4.3, 11.4) years, 28/50 (56%) males]. Twenty-two (22/50, 44%) children required admission to the PICU. In the multivariate regression analysis, hepatic (OR:12.89, 95%CI: 1.35-123.41, p-value=0.03) and cardiological involvement (OR:34.55, 95%CI: 2.2-541.91, p-value=0.01) were significantly associated with hospitalization at the PICU. Regarding the laboratory and imaging parameters during the first 48 hours from admission, D-dimer levels higher than 4μg/mL and decreased Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction were associated with an increased risk of PICU admission (OR:7.95, 95%CI:1.48-42.78, p-value=0.02 and OR=1.28, 95%CI:1.07-1.53, p-value=0.01). Children who were admitted to the PICU were more likely to develop complications during their hospitalization (10/22, 45.5% vs. 3/28, 10.7%, p-value=0.005) and were hospitalized for more days, than children in the pediatric wards (median length of stay (IQR): 20 (15,28) days vs. 8.5 (6, 14) days, p-value<0.001). Conclusions: In the present study, cardiovascular, hepatic involvement and increased D-dimer levels in children with MIS-C were associated with admission to the PICU.
Video Games in Civic Engagement in Urban Planning. Toward Sustainability through Informed Selection of Games for Specific Needs
Authors: Szot Jan
Published: September 2024

Videogames are recognized as significant tools and mediums to be used in civic participation in spatial planning and fostering local communities. As the phenomenon is widely recognized in papers presenting singular case studies and broader analyses in the field, selecting such serious games with certain characteristics remains unclear. The informed process of choosing games with particular properties regarding genesis, graphic style, genre, and complexity as the response for specified needs and process assumptions appears to be supportive in preventing unnecessary costs and data overproduction. Such avoidance is an important part of sustainable digital transformation. Therefore there is a need for the more conscious process of selecting videogames to be used in a participatory process. The following paper aims to propose a decisional instrument that could be useful for specifying the characteristics of games to be utilized in participation. They performed a multicriteria analysis of documented cases of implementing video games in civic engagement, allowing the creation of a set of numeric indicators that help determine the properties of games that will be most appropriate for given process assumptions. Such a tool can prevent overproducing data on the one hand and may cause dissemination presented way of handling the participation process on the other.
The Putative Role Of TIM-3 Variants In Polyendocrine Autoimmunity: Insights From a WES Investigation
Authors: Ariolli Andrea , Agolini Emanuele , Mazza Tommaso , Petrizzelli Francesco , Petrini Stefania , D’Oria Valentina , Cudini Annamaria , Nardella Caterina , Comparcola Donatella , Cappa Marco , Fierabracci Alessandra
Published: September 2024

Autoimmune polyglandular syndrome (APS) comprises a complex association of autoimmune pathological conditions. APS Type 1 originates from loss-of-function mutations in the autoimmune regulatory (AIRE) gene. APS2, APS3, and APS4 are linked to specific HLA alleles within the major histocompatibility complex, with single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in non-HLA genes also contributing to disease. In general, variability in the AIRE locus and the presence of heterozygous loss-of-function mutations can impact self-antigen presentation in the thymus. In this study, Whole Exome Sequencing (WES) was performed on a sixteen-year-old female APS3A/B patient to investigate the genetic basis of her complex phenotype. The analysis identified two variants (p.Arg111Trp and p.Thr101Ile) of the hepatitis A virus cell receptor 2 gene (HAVCR2) encoding for the TIM-3 (T cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain 3) protein. These variants were predicted, through in silico analysis, to impact protein structure and stability, potentially influencing the patient’s autoimmune phenotype. While Confocal Microscopy analysis revealed no alteration in TIM-3 distribution between PBMCs isolated from the patient and those of a healthy donor, RT-qPCR showed reduced TIM-3 expression in the patient’s cells. A screening conducted on a cohort of thirty APS patients indicated that the p.Thr101Ile and p.Arg111Trp mutations were unique for the proband. This study opens the pathway for the search of TIM-3 variants possibly linked to complex autoimmune phenotypes, highlighting the potential of novel variant discovery in contributing to APS classification and diagnosis.
Remaining Useful Life Prediction for Lithium-Ion Batteries Based on Hybrid Ensembles Allied with Data-Driven Approach
Authors: Liang Yuqi , Zhao Shuai
Published: September 2024

In the realm of Lithium-ion batteries, issues like material aging and capacity decline contribute to performance degradation or potential safety hazards. Predicting Remaining Useful Life (RUL) serves as a crucial method to assess the health of batteries, thereby enhancing reliability and safety. Currently hybrid approaches for batteries RUL estimation are prevalence and gained fruitful development. In this paper, a hybrid voting ensembles combining Gradient Boosting, Random Forest and K-Nearest Neighbors is proposed to predict the capacity fade trend and knee point. Finally, extensive experiments are conducted using CALCE CS2 datasets. According to the experimental results, the proposed approach supersedes the single deep learning approach for RUL prediction and the knee point is predicted accurately. Besides prediction purpose, this innovated approach can be also proposed to be integrated into the real-world application for wider usage.
Effect of Material and Structure of UHMWPE Body Armor on Ballistic Limit Velocity: Numerical Simulation
Authors: Bian Jiang , Dai Kaida , Lv Xiaojiang , Huang Zilu , Wu Guangrun , Zhang Yuan
Published: September 2024

The material properties and structural characteristics of ballistic composites are crucial to their ballistic performance. Investigation for the influence of the material and structural parameters of UHMWPE body armor on anti-fragmentation penetration performance has been made by numerical simulation in this paper, with a numerical modeling simulating the penetration of a 1.1 g FSP into the target plate of UHMWPE body armor, by which the simulation results demonstrate that the failure process of the body armor target plate primarily involves shear damage, interlayer delamination, and tensile damage. Furthermore, the study evaluates the effects of elastic modulus, tensile strength, shear strength, number of layers, and interlayer strength on the ballistic limit velocity of UHMWPE body armor. The findings reveal that the ballistic limit velocity is most sensitive to changes in shear strength, with variation rates ranging from -18.02% to 10.81%, showing an approximate positive correlation, while the elastic modulus has the smallest impact on ballistic limit velocity, with variation rates ranging from -1.8% to 3.6%. Additionally, appropriate interlayer strength can improve the ballistic limit velocity of the body armor to a certain extent. This study provides theoretical methods and recommendations for optimizing anti-penetration performance of UHMWPE body armor.
Associations of Amino Acids with the Risk of Prediabetes: a Case-Control Study from Kazakhstan
Authors: Nurtazina Alma , Voitshehovsky Ivan , Kanapiyanov Bakyt , Toishimanov Maxat , Dautov Daulet , Karibayev Kairat , Smail Yerbol , Kozhakhmetova Dana , Dusupov Altay
Published: September 2024

Background: The high global prevalence of prediabetes requires its early identification. Amino acids have emerged as potential predictors of prediabetes. This study aims to investigate the association between BCAAs and prediabetes in the Kazakh population. Materials and Methods: In this case-control study, plasma BCAAs levels were measured using the Trace GC 1310 gas chromatography system coupled with the TSQ 8000 triple quadrupole mass spectrometer (Thermo Scientific, Austin, TX, USA) followed by silylation with the BSTFA + 1% TMCS derivatization method. Biochemical parameters, including total cholesterol, HDL-C, LDL-C, triglycerides, fasting glucose, HbA1c, and creatinine, were assessed for each participant. Anthropometric and physical examinations, including blood pressure, heart rate measurements, and family history collection, were conducted by trained professionals. Results: The final analysis included data from 112 Kazakhs with prediabetes and 55 without prediabetes, aged 36-65 years. Of the thirteen AAs analyzed, only alanine showed a significant association with prediabetes risk. Our findings revealed an inverse relationship between alanine and aspartic acid levels, and direct association of lysine and prediabetes in Kazakh ethnicity. Conclusion: Lower plasma level of alanine and aspartic acid, and higher level of lysine may serve as predictive biomarkers for prediabetes in the Kazakh population. This research is funded by the Science Committee of the Ministry of Education and Science of the Republic of Kazakhstan (grant AP14871855).
Plastic Waste Pollution in Lorry Stations in Accra: Challenges and Solutions An In-Depth Analysis and Action Plan
Authors: North McKenna , Awuku Makafui
Published: September 2024

This report aims to document the extent of plastic waste pollution in lorry stations in Accra, assess its impact on public health and propose actionable solutions for effective waste management in stations. By highlighting the severity of the issue as well as providing recommendations for solutions, we seek to inform and inspire municipal assemblies, policymakers and other stakeholders to take decisive action against plastic waste pollution in lorry stations in Accra. Plastic waste pollution is a growing concern in Ghana, with lorry stations being particularly affected due to high foot traffic and inadequate waste management infrastructure within stations. This report is significant because of its implications for addressing public health hazards, continuing the ongoing efforts to reduce plastic pollution in Ghana and addressing community concerns. Through this comprehensive analysis, Mckingtorch Africa aims to drive meaningful change and create a cleaner, healthier Ghana for present and future generations.
Knowledge Graph-Based Question Answering via Enhanced Contrastive Learning
Authors: Smith Madison , Ali Woods , Johnson Tyler
Published: September 2024

This study innovates upon the field of dialog-driven query resolution (DDQR) utilizing knowledge graphs (KGs). Traditional methods in DDQR predominantly depend on fully supervised signals that presuppose the existence of perfect logical forms for queries. This reliance on gold logical forms for answer extraction is impractical in diverse real-world applications. When such forms are absent, contemporary methods, which lean on weak supervisory signals or employ heuristic and reinforcement strategies, recast DDQR as a knowledge graph path optimization problem. Despite the non-availability of gold logical forms, the rich conversational context provided by comprehensive dialog histories and domain-specific knowledge can be leveraged to optimize path selection in KGs effectively. We introduce an advanced method, termed CONVEX (CONVersational EXploration), which utilizes contrastive learning for path ranking. CONVEX addresses critical challenges by enabling learning under weak supervision and integrating the conversational context to enhance the representation quality for more effective path discrimination. Extensive evaluations of CONVEX on established benchmarks demonstrate its superiority across various metrics over current methods, notably improving Mean Reciprocal Rank (MRR) and Hit@5 by up to 20 and 36 percentage points respectively.
Bipolar Disorder: A Comprehensive Review of Genetics, Causal Hypotheses, Clinical Signs, Evolution, Biomarkers, and Treatment Options
Authors: Montgomery Richard Murdoch
Published: September 2024

Bipolar disorder (BD) is a complex mental health condition characterized by alternating periods of mania and depression. This review provides a comprehensive overview of BD, focusing on its genetics, causal hypotheses, clinical signs and evolution, potential biomarkers with an emphasis on electroencephalography (EEG), and treatment options. Genetic studies have identified several susceptibility genes and polygenic risk scores, highlighting the heritable nature of BD. Various causal hypotheses, including monoamine dysregulation, kindling, circadian rhythm disruptions, and neuroinflammation, have been proposed to explain its pathophysiology. The clinical course of BD is characterized by recurrent episodes of mania/hypomania and depression, with significant heterogeneity among individuals. EEG and other biomarkers hold promise for improving diagnosis, predicting treatment response, and elucidating the neurobiological underpinnings of BD. Current treatment options include pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy, and neuromodulation techniques, which can be tailored to individual needs based on clinical presentation and response to treatment. Future research should focus on identifying more specific biomarkers, developing novel treatments, and optimizing existing therapies to improve outcomes for individuals with BD.
Sustainable and Reusable Modified Membrane Based on Green Gold Nanoparticles for Efficient Methylene Blue Water Decontamination by a Photocatalytic Process
Authors: Mergola Lucia , Carbone Luigi , Lazzoi Maria Rosaria , Del Sole Roberta
Published: September 2024

Methylene blue (MB) is a dye hazardous pollutant widely used in several industrial processes that represents a relevant source of water pollution. Thus, the research of new systems to avoid its environmental dispersion, represents an important goal. In this work, an efficient and sustainable nanocomposite material based on green gold nanoparticles for MB water remediation, was developed. Starting from reducing and stabilizing characteristics of compounds naturally present in Lambrusco winery waste (grape marc) extracts, green gold nanoparticles (GM-AuNPs) were synthesized and deposited on a supporting membrane to create an easy and stable system for water MB decontamination. GM-AuNPs, with a specific plasmonic band at 535 nm, and the modified membrane were firstly characterized by UV-vis spectroscopy, X-Ray diffraction (XRD), and electron microscopy. Transmission electron microscopy analysis revealed the presence of two breeds of crystalline shapes, triangular platelets and round-shaped pentatwinned nanoparticles, respectively. The crystalline nature of GM-AuNPs was also confirmed from XRD. The photo-catalytic performance of the modified membrane was evaluated under natural sunlight radiation obtaining a complete MB degradation (100%) in 116 minutes. A pseudo-first-order kinetic described the photocatalytic process with a rate constant k equal to 0.044 ± 0.010 min-1. The modified membrane demonstrated high stability since it was reused, without any treatment, for 3 months and for at least 20 cycles maintaining the same performances. GM-AuNPs-based membrane was also tested with other water pollutants (methyl orange, 4-nitrophenol and rhodamine B revealing a high selectivity towards MB.
Vibration Analysis of Multilayered Quasicrystal Cylindrical Shells, Annular Plates, and Truncated Conical Shells Filled with Fluid
Authors: Feng Xin , Zhang Han , Gao Yang
Published: September 2024

An approach to estimate the dynamic characteristic of multilayered three-dimensional cubic quasicrystal cylindrical shells, annular plates, and truncated conical shells with different boundary conditions is presented. These investigated structures can be in a vacuum, totally filled with quiescent fluid, and subjected to internal flowing fluid, in which the fluid is incompressible and inviscid. The velocity potential, Bernoulli’s equation, and impermeability condition have been applied to the shell-fluid interface to obtain an explicit expression, from which the fluid pressure can be converted into the coupled differential equations in terms of displacement functions. The state-space method is formulated to quasicrystal linear elastic theory to derive the state equations for three structures along the radial direction. The mixed supported boundary conditions are represented by means of the differential quadrature technique and Fourier series expansions, respectively. A global propagator matrix, which connects the field variables at the internal interface to those at the external interface for the whole structure, is further completed by joint coupling matrices to overcome the numerical instabilities. Numerical examples show the correctness of the proposed method and the influence of the semi-vertical angle, different boundary conditions, and the fluid debit on the natural frequencies and mode shapes for various geometries and boundary conditions.
Characterization and Correction of Multipole Field Effect on Electron Beams from a High-Brightness Continuous-Wave Photocathode Gun
Authors: Jia Haoyan , Li Tianyi , Liu Juntao , Liu Zhongqi , Zhang Xiang , Li Jingyi , Liu Kexin , Tsai Cheng-Ying , Xu Hang , Huang Senlin
Published: September 2024

Continuous-wave photocathode guns are capable of delivering electron beams with high repetition rates and high average currents. However, they are limited by relatively low accelerating gradients and cathode fields. This limitation leads to a larger beam size at the gun exit due to space charge forces, making the beam more sensitive to optical aberrations and posing challenges for low-emittance electron beam transmission. This paper focuses on the aberrations induced by multipole fields. We analyze the effects of quadrupole, sextupole, and higher-order fields on beam profile and transverse emittance and propose a beam-based method for the rapid characterization and correction of these multipole fields. Furthermore, we present an experimental study conducted on the DC-SRF-II photocathode gun equipped with dedicated correctors. Both simulation and experimental results demonstrate that our approach effectively mitigates beam aberrations caused by multipole fields, resulting in improved beam symmetry and reduced emittance.
Nanotechnological Plastic Flooring: Implications for Broiler Chicken Performance, Health, and Carcass Quality
Authors: Przybulinski¹ Bruna Barreto , Garcia¹ Rodrigo Garófallo , Burbarelli Maria Fernanda Castro , Naas² Irenilza de Alencar , Komiyama Claudia Marie , Caldara¹ Fabiana Ribeiro , Heiss¹ Vivian Aparecida Rios de Castilho , Oliveira Kelly Mari Pires de , Valentim Jean Kaique
Published: September 2024

This study investigated the effects of two types of plastic flooring, with and without nanotechnological antimicrobial additives, as complete or partial replacements for wood shavings on broiler chickens' performance, yield, meat quality, and litter microbiology up to 42 days of age. A total of 1,500 Ross 408® male broiler chicks were randomly assigned to five treatments: wood shavings (WS), plastic flooring (PF), a 50/50 mix of plastic flooring and wood shavings (PF+WS), plastic flooring with antimicrobial additive (PFA), and a 50/50 mix of antimicrobial plastic flooring and wood shavings (PFA+WS). The study assessed liver, heart, spleen, gizzard biometrics, Eimeria lesion severity, microbiological profiles, performance indices, and meat quality. Results showed that plastic flooring, mainly when used alone, posed challenges, such as increased intestinal lesions associated with coccidiosis and a higher presence of Salmonella. Additionally, birds raised on plastic flooring exhibited poorer feed conversion, lower body weight, and reduced carcass yield than wood shavings. Meat quality was also affected, with plastic flooring leading to less desirable fillet characteristics. Overall, using plastic flooring negatively impacted the performance and health of broiler chickens.
Four Different Build Angles in 3D-Printed Complete Denture Bases: A Comparative In Vitro Study
Authors: Kim Ki Won , Kim Sung Yong , Kim Seong A , Jang Hee-Won , Lee Keun-Woo , Lee Yongsang
Published: September 2024

In this study, we aimed to investigate the differences in tissue surface adaptation and the variations in distances between reference points on the polished surfaces of 3D-printed denture bases with different build angles. The build angles were 0°, 30°, 60°, and 90°, with 15 denture bases printed for each angle. Using the Geomagic Control® software, a 3D best-fit alignment was conducted between the denture base tissue surface and the reference shape of the edentulous maxilla model to calculate the root mean square error. The distances between reference points on the polished surface were measured using digital calipers. One-way analysis of variance was conducted for statistical analysis. The adaptation, as measured by the root mean square error, varied significantly among denture bases with different build angles. The distances between the anterior and posterior reference points of the polished surface were also significantly different. However, within the limitations of this study, the variations in adaptations and dimensional accuracy across different build angles were within clinically acceptable ranges. In clinical practice, the print angle can be adjusted based on factors, such as printing time, resin consumption, and the number of denture bases being printed simultaneously.
Breast Reconstruction in Patients with Prior Breast Augmentation: Searching for the Optimal Reconstructive Option
Authors: Tedeschi Pasquale , Elia Rossella , Gurrado Angela , Nacchiero Eleonora , Angelelli Alessia , Testini Mario , Giudice Giuseppe , Maruccia Michele
Published: September 2024

Breast cancer in patients with prior breast augmentation poses unique challenges for detection, diagnosis, and management. Mastectomy rates are increasing, and patients with prior augmen-tation often have a lower body mass index, making autologous techniques unsuitable. This study aims to assess the best reconstructive option in patients with a history of subglandular or dual plane breast augmentation. Materials and methods: a prospective analysis was conducted on pa-tients who underwent breast reconstruction after mastectomy. Patients with subglandular or dual plane breast augmentation were included. Patients were divided into submuscular breast recon-struction (group 2) or prepectoral breast reconstruction (group 1) groups. Demographic and sur-gical data were collected. Results: A total of 47 patients were included, with 23 in Group 1 and 24 in the Group 2. Complications occurred in 11 patients (23.4%), with significant differences be-tween groups. The most common complication was seroma formation. Implant loss occurred in 4.3% of cases in the Group 1, while no implant loss was observed in the Group 2. Patient-reported satisfaction scores were similar between groups at 12 months postoperatively. Conclusions: sub-pectoral breast reconstruction with a tissue expander seems a safer and effective technique for pa-tients with prior breast augmentation. It resulted in fewer complications. This approach should be considered as an option for breast reconstruction after mastectomy in this cohort of patients.
From Sensors to Standardized Financial Reports: A Proposed Automated Accounting System Integrating IoT, Blockchain, and XBRL
Authors: Nofel Mohamed , Marzouk Mahmoud , Elbardan Hany , Saleh Reda , Mogahed Aly
Published: September 2024

Modern advances in technology have increased the demand for traditional accounting systems to be upgraded for real-time data processing, security, and standardized reports. Thus, this paper proposes a new accounting information system that integrates IoT, blockchain, and XBRL. The proposed system aims to automate the accounting process by using IoT to collect data and send it automatically to a blockchain, which acts as a database that will generate journal entries automatically through smart contracts. XBRL will then be used as an output method for standardized financial reports based on the data transferred from the blockchain. This paper uses a qualitative research design based on semi-structured interviews with 13 industry experts from IT engineering, academia, and financial systems analysis. NVivo software was used to conduct a thematic analysis of interview transcripts. The findings revealed the technical feasibility, challenges, and benefits of the proposed integration and identified the most efficient mechanism for data transmission across the three technologies. The paper concluded that while integration complexity and user adoption are challenging, this integrated system can revolutionize accounting by enabling real-time data capture, automation of essential operations, data security, and integrity improvements. To our knowledge, this is the first paper to develop a comprehensive accounting information system framework using IoT, blockchain, and XBRL to automate data collection, improve data security, and streamline financial reporting. The study's potential to impact accounting systems and financial reporting research and practice emphasizes its importance.
Binary Biomass-Based Electrolyte Films for High-Performance All-Solid-State Supercapacitor
Authors: Lou Rui , Zhang Guocheng , Niu Taoyuan , He Long , Yuan Yuejin , Su Ying , Wei Guodong
Published: September 2024

A binary biomass-based solid electrolyte film (LSE) was successfully synthesized through the incorporation of lignin nanoparticles (LNP) with sodium alginate (SA). The impact of the mass ratio of SA to LNP on the microstructure, porosity, electrolyte absorption capacity, ionic conductivity, and electrochemical properties of the LSE was thoroughly investigated. The results indicated that as the proportion of SA increased from 5% to 15% LNP, the pore structure of the LSE became increasingly uniform and abundant. Consequently, enhancements were observed in porosity, liquid absorption capacity, ionic conductivity, and overall electrochemical performance. Notably, at a SA amount of 15% LNP, the ionic conductivity of resultant LSE-15 was recorded at 14.10 mS cm1, with porosity and liquid absorption rates reaching 308% and 58.4%, respectively. LSE-15 was employed as a solid electrolyte, while LNP-based carbon aerogel (LCA) served as the two electrodes in the construction of a symmetric all-solid-state supercapacitor (SSC). The SSC device demonstrated exceptional electrochemical storage capacity, achieving a specific capacitance of 197 F g1 at 0.5 A g1, along with maximum energy and power density of 27.33 W h kg1 and 4998 W kg1, respectively. Furthermore, the SSC device exhibited highly stable electrochemical performance under extreme conditions, including compression, bending, and both series and parallel connections. Therefore, the development and application of the binary biomass-based solid electrolyte film in supercapacitors represent a promising strategy for harnessing high-value biomass resources in the field of energy storage.
Conservation, Evolution and Restauration Analysis of the Vegetation and the Beach Dune System of Enebrales Beach (Huelva, Spain)
Authors: del Valle Laura , Pons Guillem X.
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the evolution of the vegetation and beach dune system at Enebrales Beach in Huelva, Spain, from 2003 to 2022. Utilizing orthophotographs and advanced GIS techniques, we analyzed changes in natural surface areas, vegetation cover, and dune stability. The results demonstrate significant ecological improvements: a recovery of 25,300 m² in dunes and 7,400 m² in beach areas, and a total vegetation cover increase of nearly 10,000 m². Interventions, including reforestation with native species and the stabilization of dune ridges, have been effective in enhancing the coastal ecosystem's resilience. Additionally, the beach's carrying capacity increased, allowing for approximately 2,000 more users without compromising ecological integrity. These findings underscore the importance of continued conservation efforts and adaptive management to maintain and further improve the ecological health and sustainability of Enebrales Beach Dune.
Emerging Gene Therapy Strategies for Type 1 Diabetes: A Review of Potential Treatments
Authors: Chakraborty Kritanko , Sengupta Abhigyan
Published: September 2024

Several studies have shown promising treatments for type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) using developing gene therapy methods. This review article focuses on summarizing possible new treatment options and outlining their pros and cons, since there is no cure for T1DM as of yet. New treatments involve islet and stem cell transplantation, genetic vaccination, and immunological precursor cell-mediated therapy. Since most of these methods are still in their early stages, efficacy in human trials of this type of treatment is still largely unknown, however, researchers are hopeful after numerous successes in trials with non-obese diabetic (NOD) mice.
Effect of velvet Timor deer (Rusa timorensis) supplementation to fertility status of male Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus)
Authors: Kartika Nur Hafidzah Devi , Samsudewa Daud , Prasetya Nor Basid Adiwibawa
Published: September 2024

Objective: To determine the increase in calcium (Ca) and zinc (Zn) content in Timor deer blood before and after velvet powder supplementation. This study also investigates the effect of velvet powder supplementation on male rats’ fertility status.

Methods: This study employed twenty males Wistar rats weighing 200 – 250 g and aged 90 days. The sample was divided into four groups: the control group (T0), the25 mg kg-1 WB-1 velvet powder (T1), the 50 mg kg-1 WB-1 velvet powder (T2) and the 100 mg kg-1 WB-1 velvet powder (T3). Ca and Zn concentrations in rat blood were determined using an atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS) in the Feed Nutrition Laboratory at Universitas Diponegoro. The fertility status (sperm motility, mortality and abnormality) of male rat sperm was studied. In this study, statistical analysis was performed using analysis of variance (ANOVA).

Results: The results revealed a significant difference P<0.05 ANOVA which was shown in blood Ca and Zn parameters before and after treatment, motility, sperm death and sperm abnormality in the rats.

Conslusions: In conclusion, supplementation with 100 mg kg-1 WB-1 Timor deer velvet powder will improve the fertility status of male rats.
Study of the Financial Feasibility of a Dairy Farming Business after the FMD Outbreak in Kampung Susu Lawu, Plaosan District, Magetan Regency
Authors: Marantha Setiawan Dwi Ing , Purnomo Sutrisno Hadi , Sari Ayu Intan
Published: September 2024

Objective: An outbreak of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) in Indonesia targeted ruminants, notably impacting dairy cows and precipitating a significant downturn in milk production during the year 2022. This research aimed to determine the financial feasibility and break-even point of post-FMD dairy farming within the Kampung Susu Lawu livestock group in Plaosan District, Magetan Regency.

Methods: Employing a quantitative descriptive method, this study utilized survey techniques involving 50 dairy farmers affiliated with the Livestock Group of Kampung Susu Lawu. The data analysis encompassed investment analysis, including the Benefit Cost Ratio (BCR), Net Present Value (NPV), Internal Rate of Return (IRR), Pay Back Period of Credit (PPC), and Break-Even Point (BEP).

Results: The findings revealed a BCR value of 1.49, NPV amounting to IDR 38,888,178.00, IRR at 26.36%, PPC of 3.46 years, BEP pegged at IDR 33,043,062.00/year, and BEP based on the unit set at 7,396 liters of milk/year. Financial analysis indicated a positive NPV, a BCR exceeding 1, an IRR surpassing prevailing bank interest rates, and a PPC duration of 3.46 years, collectively affirming the financial feasibility of the dairy farming business.

Conclusions: This investigation shows that the post-FMD smallholder dairy business is economically feasible. Farmers stand to accrue benefits by surpassing the production threshold of 7,396 liters of milk/year or by maintaining a herd of productive dairy cows numbering more than three.
PRINCIPLES OF FORMING THE OPTIMAL STRUCTURE OF THE ELECTRIC POWER SYSTEM WITH THE INTEGRATED USE OF DISTRIBUTED GENERATION SOURCES
Authors: Savchenko Natalia , Dovgaluk Oksana
Published: September 2024

Abstract. The article presents the results of developing the optimal configuration of a hybrid electric power system of distributed generation, taking into account the energy potential of alternative energy in Ukraine. The issues of further development of distributed energy based on the introduction of hybrid systems with renewable sources of distributed energy generation are considered. The potential of alternative energy technologies in Ukraine is analyzed. A comparison of the efficiency of implementation of different types of alternative energy sources by the method of hierarchy analysis is carried out in order to identify their level of prospects for use in complex systems of distributed generation. The general optimal structure of the electric power system of distributed generation is developed. A method for optimizing the composition of integrated distributed generation power systems with renewable energy sources based on expert analysis of energy efficiency and the potential for the development of modern alternative energy technologies in Ukraine is proposed. The application of the performed research will increase the reliability of distributed generation systems and their energy efficiency in the hybrid use of renewable energy sources, provided that the system control is fully automated and its structure is optimised.
DEVELOPMENT OF AN ELECTROCHEMICAL ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM FOR OPERATION IN INDUSTRIAL ELECTRICAL NETWORKS
Authors: Yakovenko Ivan
Published: September 2024

Abstract. The article substantiates the expediency of developing an energy storage system for modern industrial electrical networks, which involves the use of electrochemical storage systems. The advantages of such a storage system are the possibility of their production by manufacturers located in Ukraine, which will also provide competition to global manufacturers of storage products, provide levers for the development of the domestic economy, and reduce the cost of introducing such energy storage systems into electrical networks. The article presents the results of the development of an electrochemical energy storage device for power supply to consumers of industrial electrical networks, which are used for enterprises and are carried out using central step-down substations and several workshop transformer substations. The analysis of the requirements for power supply to consumers of an industrial enterprise allowed to formulate the main technical characteristics of the energy storage system to ensure reliable operation of the enterprise in case of disruption of the centralised power supply. The type and main components of the storage system are substantiated, the main parameters of the energy storage system are calculated, and its dimensions are determined. An analysis of the functioning of the studied electrical network of an industrial enterprise in typical steady-state operation modes using the developed electrochemical energy storage system is carried out. It is proved that the application of the developed electric energy storage system will increase the reliability of power supply to consumers, ensuring the supply of electric energy for the technological process of the enterprise during the work shift, which is a very important measure in the conditions of power supply disruption under martial law and emergency situations. It is also promising to use the proposed electric energy storage system in combination with distributed generation sources, which are quite common for the industrial electrical networks under investigation.
Organizational aspects of monitoring pregnant women in the Tula Region.
Authors:   GUZ «Tula Regional Perinatal Center named after V. S. Gumilyovskaya», Kopyrin I.Yu. , Bantyeva M. N. ,   Federal State Budgetary Institution «Central Research Institute of Healthcare Organization and Informatization» of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Lokhmacheva E. A. ,   GUZ «Tula Regional Perinatal Center named after V. S. Gumilyovskaya»
Published: September 2024

In recent decades, there has been an increasing use of modern technologies and information systems in order to increase the accessibility, effectiveness and quality of medical care. The issue of organizing medical care using digital technologies in the Tula region is relevant. The purpose of the study is to determine the main organizational aspects of the work of the situational center of the Tula Regional Perinatal Center named after V. S. Gumilyovskaya for monitoring pregnant women. Materials and methods. The structure and mechanisms of operation of the situational center of the GUZ «TOPTS named after V. S. Gumilyovskaya» are analyzed. Research methods: empirical, analytical, descriptive. Results. The situation center inside the perinatal center represents a new direction, where the collection, visualization and processing of data from various services play a crucial role in optimizing and improving the level of medical care for pregnant women registered in the regional women’s clinics. One of the main pillars is such a division of the perinatal center as the obstetric remote consultation center. In addition to the ADCC, the situation center receives data on the state of the service from the regional information subsystem for monitoring maternity care in the Tula region (RISAR) and reports from the BARS-Web-Vaults information and analytical system. The main visualization tool obtained from all data sources used by the situation center is a component of the information and analytical system of the Situation Center of the Governor of the Tula Region interactive analytical panels with a graphical interface – dashboards. Conclusion. Creation of a situation center in the State Institution «TOPC named after. V. S. Gumilevskaya» is designed to increase the efficiency of the obstetrics and gynecology service in the region through the prism of modern technologies. The combination of modern technologies and medical knowledge in the situation center makes it a relevant tool for improving medical care for pregnant women and newborns, providing medical institutions with solutions based on advanced information technologies and data analytics. The introduction of a situation center made it possible to reduce the number of errors in routing pregnant women at the regional level.
About certain urgent problems of the legal status of a doctor and the need for their legislative solution.
Authors:   Expert on the issues of regulatory and legal regulation of health care activities., Piven D.V. , Kitsul I. S. ,   Irkutsk State Medical Academy of Postgraduate Education – the branch of the Russian Medical Academy of Continuing Professional Education of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Novozhilov A. V. ,   Irkutsk State Medical University Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation
Published: September 2024

Federal Law No. 323-FZ dated 11/21/2011 «On the Basics of Public Health protection in the Russian Federation» identifies two close, interrelated, but at the same time independent rights of a citizen: in article 21, the right to choose a doctor, taking into account the consent of a doctor, i. e. the right to choose any doctor at all and not only the attending physician, and in article 70 the patient’s right to choose the attending physician. At the same time, with the exception of the district service, the Basics do not disclose the mechanism for a citizen to choose a doctor, including a doctor, when providing him with primary specialized medical care and specialized medical care. This mechanism has not been disclosed in the procedures for providing medical care. In this regard, the authors proposed to supplement article 21 of the Fundamentals with instructions that the procedures for providing medical care, including the procedure for choosing a doctor by the patient. In addition, the publication noted that the absence of detailed and comprehensive medical care in the relevant procedures.
The impact of violations of the quality of chest X-ray examinations on the work of radiologists and diagnostic artificial intelligence.
Authors:   Research and Practical Clinical Center for Diagnostics and Telemedicine Technologies of the Moscow Health Care Department, Borisov A.A. ,   Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University (Pirogov Medical University, Vasiliev Yu.A. ,   Research and Practical Clinical Center for Diagnostics and Telemedicine Technologies of the Moscow Health Care Department, Arzamasov K.M. ,   Research and Practical Clinical Center for Diagnostics and Telemedicine Technologies of the Moscow Health Care Department
Published: September 2024

When performing radiographic studies, quality violations and errors periodically occur, making it difficult for an image to be interpreted and described by both a radiologist and software based on artificial intelligence technology. Incorrect filling of meta-information in DICOM format headers may be a separate problem for diagnostic artificial intelligence. Purpose: determination of quality violations of the chest x-ray examinations, which most strongly impede the work of radiologists and diagnostic software based on artificial intelligence in the conditions of the Moscow city health care system. Material and methods. To study the impact of the quality of x-ray examinations on the work of a radiologist, an online survey was conducted among radiologists, employees of the Moscow reference center for radiation diagnostics. To study the impact of the quality of x-ray examinations on the work of AI-based software, an analysis of the results of processing diagnostic studies according to the modalities chest x-ray and lung fluorography for the 4th quarter of 2023 by artificial intelligence services was carried out as part of an “Experiment on the use of innovative computer vision technologies for medical image analysis and subsequent applicability in the healthcare system of Moscow”. Results. The survey involved 172 radiologists. The most common quality violations by doctors are incompleteness of chest coverage and asymmetric position of the patient, as well as violations of image clarity / contrast. At the same time, the incompleteness of the chest coverage causes the greatest difficulties in interpreting the study for doctors with up to 5 years of experience. For more experienced doctors, the greatest difficulties are caused by violations of the clarity and contrast of images. The main problems hindering the description of studies by AI-services are non-filling or incorrect filling of meta-information about the study stored in DICOM format, as well as violations of the patient’s laying and positioning. Conclusion. The problems we have identified indicate the need for more careful adherence to the methodology of conducting diagnostic studies, especially with regard to filling out meta-information about the study. AI-based software developers need to evaluate the performance of their solutions based on the developed testing and monitoring methodology.