bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Case Report: Recurrent Malignant Struma Ovarii With Hyperthyroidism and Metastases, A Rare Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Zhang Ruyi , Tian Xin , Luo Ying , Dong Haiwei , Tian Weijun , Zhang Yujie , Li Dong , Sun Haoran , Meng Zhaowei
Published: May 2022

Background: SO (Struma ovarii) is a rare form of ovarian teratoma which originates from ovarian dermoid cysts. Due to the rarity of this disease, relevant studies might not be sufficiently documented, especially cases with hyperthyroidism and multiple metastases.

Case Presentation: A 40-year-old female patient was admitted to our hospital due to management of early pregnancy along with a recurrent abdominal and pelvic mass. Contrast-enhanced CT images showed an irregular mass (10.7 × 8.6 × 12.8 cm) located in the right side from the hypogastrium to the pelvic cavity and another mass (3.8 × 3.7 cm) in the liver. Laboratory examination showed that CA125 (Carbohydrate Antigen-125) was 118.10 U/mL, Tg (thyroglobulin) was >300 ng/ml, FT4 (free thyroxine) was 22.11 pmol/L, and TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) was <0.004 mIU/L. She subsequently underwent liver mass dissection, omentectomy, tumor dissection, peritoneal nodule resection, as well as rectal anterior wall nodule resection. The patient was diagnosed with malignant SO (papillary type) along with multiple metastases. Also, we conducted a literature review based on 290 SO cases from 257 articles.

Conclusion: This study showed that malignant SO might be prone to relapse and metastasize (a metastatic rate of 52.94%) and therefore aggressive management might need to be recommended for malignant SO. Also, laparotomy might need to be recommended for large tumors that cannot be resected by laparoscopic surgery since these tumors might be prone to rupture and thus produce peritoneal implants. Furthermore, Graves’ disease might need to be considered in the differential diagnosis.
Association Between Side of Living Kidney Donation and Post-Transplant Outcomes
Authors: Dobrijevic Ellen L. K. , Au Eric H. K. , Rogers Natasha M. , Clayton Philip A. , Wong Germaine , Allen Richard D. M.
Published: May 2022

Background: Right-sided living donor kidneys have longer renal arteries and shorter veins that make vascular anastomosis more challenging. We sought to determine whether recipients of right-sided living donor kidneys have worse outcomes than left-sided kidney recipients.

Methods: An observational analysis of the Australia and New Zealand Dialysis and Transplant Registry (ANZDATA) was undertaken. We used adjusted logistic regression to determine the association between side and delayed graft function (DGF) and time-stratified adjusted cox regression models for graft and patient survivals.

Results: Between 2004 and 2018, 4,050 living donor kidney transplants were conducted with 696 (17.2%) using right kidneys. With reference to left kidneys, the adjusted OR (95% CI) for DGF was 2.01 (1.31–3.09) for recipients with right kidneys. Within 30 days, 46 allografts (1.4%) were lost, with major causes of overall graft loss being technical, primary non-function and death. Recipients of right donor kidneys experienced a greater risk of early graft loss (aHR 2.02 [95% CI 1.06–3.86], p = 0.03), but not beyond 30 days (aHR 0.97 [95% CI 0.80–1.19], p = 0.8]).

Conclusion: Technical challenge is the most common cause of early graft loss. The risk of early graft loss among recipients who received right kidneys is doubled compared to those who received left living donor kidneys.
Three-Year Outcomes in Kidney Transplant Recipients Switched From Calcineurin Inhibitor-Based Regimens to Belatacept as a Rescue Therapy
Authors: Morel Antoine , Hoisnard Léa , Dudreuilh Caroline , Moktefi Anissa , Kheav David , Pimentel Ana , Sakhi Hamza , Mokrani David , Attias Philippe , El Sakhawi Karim , Champy Cécile Maud , Remy Philippe , Sbidian Emilie , Grimbert Philippe , Matignon Marie
Published: May 2022

Background: The long-term benefits of conversion from calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs) to belatacept in kidney transplant recipients (KTr) are poorly documented.

Methods: A single-center retrospective work to study first-time CNI to belatacept conversion as a rescue therapy [eGFR <30 ml/min/1.73 m2, chronic histological lesions, or CNI-induced thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA)]. Patient and kidney allograft survivals, eGFR, severe adverse events, donor-specific antibodies (DSA), and histological data were recorded over 36 months after conversion.

Results: We included N = 115 KTr. The leading cause for switching was chronic histological lesions with non-optimal eGFR (56.5%). Three years after conversion, patient, and death-censored kidney allograft survivals were 88% and 92%, respectively, eGFR increased significantly from 31.5 ± 17.5 to 36.7 ± 15.7 ml/min/1.73 m2 (p < 0.01), the rejection rate was 10.4%, OI incidence was 5.2 (2.9–7.6) per 100 person-years. Older age was associated with death, eGFR was not associated with death nor allograft loss. No patient developed dnDSA at M36 after conversion. CNI-induced TMA disappeared in all cases without eculizumab use. Microvascular inflammation and chronic lesions remained stable.

Conclusion: Post-KT conversion from CNIs to belatacept, as rescue therapy, is safe and beneficial irrespective of the switch timing and could represent a good compromise facing organ shortage. Age and eGFR at conversion should be considered in the decision whether to switch.
Trends and Outcomes of Hypothermic Machine Perfusion Preservation of Kidney Allografts in Simultaneous Liver and Kidney Transplantation in the United States
Authors: Chang Alex , Schaubel Douglas E. , Chen Melissa , Abt Peter L. , Bittermann Therese
Published: May 2022

Optimal kidney graft outcomes after simultaneous liver-kidney (SLK) transplant may be threatened by the increased cold ischemia time and hemodynamic perturbations of dual organ transplantation. Hypothermic machine perfusion (MP) of kidney allografts may mitigate these effects. We analyzed U.S. trends and renal outcomes of hypothermic non-oxygenated MP vs. static cold storage (CS) of kidney grafts from 6,689 SLK transplants performed between 2005 and 2020 using the United Network for Organ Sharing database. Outcomes included delayed graft function (DGF), primary non-function (PNF), and kidney graft survival (GS). Overall, 17.2% of kidney allografts were placed on MP. Kidney cold ischemia time was longer in the MP group (median 12.8 vs. 10.0 h; p < 0.001). Nationally, MP utilization in SLK increased from <3% in 2005 to >25% by 2019. Center preference was the primary determinant of whether a graft underwent MP vs. CS (intraclass correlation coefficient 65.0%). MP reduced DGF (adjusted OR 0.74; p = 0.008), but not PNF (p = 0.637). Improved GS with MP was only observed with Kidney Donor Profile Index <20% (HR 0.71; p = 0.030). Kidney MP has increased significantly in SLK in the U.S. in a heterogeneous manner and with variable short-term benefits. Additional studies are needed to determine the ideal utilization for MP in SLK.
Concepciones de docentes y gestores sobre las políticas, culturas y prácticas inclusivas en la Universidad de Cuenca
Authors: Clavijo-Castillo Ruth Germania , Bautista-Cerro María Josefa
Published: May 2022

La inclusión en la universidad ecuatoriana es un derecho que está contemplado en la normativa que regula la Educación Superior. Desde este estudio se entiende que debe ser uno de los pilares básicos para generar una universidad democrática, justa y solidaria. Este artículo está orientado a analizar las opiniones que presentan los docentes coordinadores de las Facultades y gestores del Departamento de Bienestar Universitario (DBU) en torno al proceso de atención a la diversidad del estudiantado, considerando las políticas, prácticas y culturas inclusivas de la Universidad de Cuenca. La metodología utilizada es cualitativa, se aplicó la entrevista semiestructurada permitiendo obtener información sobre la organización de las facultades en torno a las dimensiones del Index for inclusión. Para los participantes, de este estudio, los principales responsables de garantizar el derecho a la educación de todas las personas son las autoridades, los administrativos, los gestores del DBU y el profesorado. De las principales barreras que obstaculizan la educación inclusiva a nivel universitario desde el punto de vista de los profesionales consultados, constituyen la poca información sobre los procesos y las prácticas inclusivas, el desconocimiento de políticas inclusivas y sobre todo la falta de formación del profesorado en atención a la diversidad, situaciones que restringen la generación de una cultura superior inclusiva.
Estrategias didácticas con actividades sincrónicas y asincrónicas en el aprendizaje de nomenclatura inorgánica
Authors: Lara-Carrillo Karina Isabel , Freire-Aillón Teresa Milena
Published: May 2022

Las estrategias didácticas que se aplican en el proceso de enseñanza aprendizaje son mecanismos que permiten que los estudiantes aprovechen el conocimiento impartido por el docente y demuestren dominio absoluto, más aún, en tiempos de pandemia cuando las clases son virtuales. Por lo señalado, se realizó una investigación con el objetivo de implementar estrategias didácticas con actividades sincrónicas y asincrónicas para un mejor aprendizaje de la nomenclatura de química inorgánica. La metodología fue cuasi experimental, con un enfoque cuantitativo y un alcance descriptivo, correlacional y explicativo; participaron 83 estudiantes de primero de bachillerato de la Unidad Educativa Baños, con quienes se aplicó una encuesta bajo el esquema de pretest y postest. Los resultados se analizaron con estadística descriptiva, Chi cuadrado y correlación, determinándose frecuencias de nunca, pocas veces y medianamente (35.58, 52.88 y 14.54 %) sobre el conocimiento de la nomenclatura de química inorgánica, valores que cambiaron significativamente luego de aplicar las estrategias didácticas con actividades sincrónicas y asincrónicas, demostrándose en el postest que el 11.40 % se ubica en la escala de medianamente, casi siempre 37.33 % y siempre 51.27 %. Se concluye que las estrategias didácticas mejoraron el nivel de conocimiento de la nomenclatura de química inorgánica.
Quality, satisfaction and loyalty in the emergency service of public hospitals, from the central zone of Ecuador
Authors: Manosalvas-Vaca Carlos Anibal , Manosalvas-Vaca Luis Oswaldo , Quevedo-Amay Deysi Valeria , Haro-Acosta Silvana Nataly
Published: May 2022

This study seeks to analyze in a holistic way the satisfaction of patients who make use of emergency services of public hospitals in the central zone of Ecuador, one of the most sensitive areas which is under constant scrutiny by users and physicians whoever give continuity to the treatment of patients. Through structural equations modeling (SEM) it was evidenced that there is a positive and significant relationship between the quality of service and satisfaction, as well as between the latter and the loyalty of the users. There was no direct relationship between the quality and the loyalty of the patients. These results highlight the importance of these variables for the integral evaluation of the satisfaction and loyalty of the clients of an organization.
Influencia de factores personales e institucionales en el rendimiento académico de estudiantes universitarios mexicanos
Authors: Méndez-Rodríguez Roxanna Daniela , Arellano-González Alejandro , Ríos-Vázquez Nidia Josefina , Carballo-Mendívil Blanca
Published: May 2022

La presente investigación tuvo como objetivo identificar los factores que afectan el rendimiento académico y determinar en qué medida el programa de tutorías coadyuva e impacta para la incorporación a la universidad y mejora del desempeño. El diseño fue exploratorio y correlacional, aplicando un instrumento (Alfa de Cronbach=0.8) a 186 universitarios mexicanos. Los resultados no demostraron diferencias significativas entre las características sociodemográficas y promedio universitario, aptitudes, actitudes y grado de satisfacción del curso tutorial. Sin embargo, se encontró una correlación significativamente positiva entre las sesiones de Tutorías vs índices de la dimensión Autoevaluación (0.225 a 0.352) por lo que los cursos de tutorías inciden indirectamente con el promedio universitario mediante el desarrollo de aptitudes y actitudes en el estudiante. Finalmente se sugiere la modificación periódica de los contenidos por otros que se adapten a las nuevas generaciones, a fin de atender las necesidades representadas con los índices más bajos.
Integrated System for Official Vehicles with Online Reservation and Moving Path Monitoring
Authors: Hsu Kuo-Tai , Lu Wei-Chang , Jheng Hao-Yu , Hung Yun-Ting , Chen Xin-Zhang , Chen Wen-Ping
Published: May 2022

Companies have official vehicles for the convenience and time efficiency of employees to carry out official duties. However, private uses, false reports of fuel consumption, and excessive use by users may harm the company’s finance and reputation. Moreover, it is difficult to quantify and manage the use of official vehicles as they are used by different groups in the company. Locating vehicles also is a problem that is caused by inappropriate management. To solve these problems, an online monitoring and management system of official vehicles is proposed in this study. The system includes a set-top box (STB), key cabinet unit, line bot, and backstage management system in four major units with GPS and moving path tracking functions. The STB functions include GPS mobile tracking, power management, and Wi-Fi communication. The key cabinet unit manages key storage for the STB and detects the location of the set-top box. The backstage management system stores general information and GPS locations of vehicles. Line Bot allows online management, and the backstage management system provides administrators with information on official vehicle uses. The test result of the system shows successful monitoring of the vehicles on identifying moving paths, mileage, and locations with an accuracy of 5 m. The system prevents doubled reservations and informs the exact location of the vehicles. It helps the administrator of the official vehicles monitor and analyze the data of uses of the vehicles to improve the management efficiency and prevent misuse of the vehicles. The system also provides a solution for sharing economy of vehicles.
GAIA: Great-Distribution Artificial Intelligence-Based Algorithm for Advanced Large-Scale Commercial Store Management
Authors: Giaconia Cettina , Chamas Aziz
Published: May 2022

Today, the intelligent management of market stores in the large distribution field represents one of the most difficult tasks to address, considering the various problems to be managed. Specifically, from the classic issues of managing out-of-stock to the reconstruction of customer sentiment and the optimal management of shelves, scientific research has placed considerable effort on producing robust and efficient solutions to the aforementioned problems. In this context, modern deep learning techniques have allowed for the development of intelligent and adaptive systems capable of automating and significantly improving the management of a large-scale distribution market. Specifically, the authors have designed and implemented an innovative full pipeline that integrates modern deep learning technologies. More in detail, an innovative pipeline embedding a visual AI-based engine for customer sentiment assessment merged with a deep framework for stock management and market store cashflow monitoring is proposed. The innovative proposed system has been tested and validated in a large-scale distribution supermarket, confirming the effectiveness of the proposed solution. Specifically, in the performed testing sessions, the designed pipeline was able to show ad hoc visual customer sentiment assessment with an accuracy of 95% as well as intelligent stock monitoring with an accuracy of 93% in cross validation.
A Spirit of Place
Authors: Carney Ava
Published: May 2022

This article charts the effects of community, public space, and transdisciplinary interaction on the author’s artistic practice. By considering some of the broader societal and ideological implications of situating artwork in a natural setting, A Spirit of Place reflects on connection points between public art and ecological citizenship.
Poisoning Effects of Cerium Oxide (CeO2) on the Performance of Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFCs)
Authors: Pourrahmani Hossein , Matian Mardit , Van herle Jan
Published: May 2022

In this study, the poisoning effects of cerium oxide (CeO2) as the contaminant on the performance of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) are evaluated. An experimental setup was developed to analyze the performance characteristic (I-V) curves in contaminated and non-contaminated conditions. Focused ion-beam scanning electron microscopy (FIB-SEM) cross-section images were obtained as an input for the energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis. The results of the EDX analysis verified the presence of CeO2 in the contaminated membrane electrode assembly (MEA), in addition to fluorine and sulfur. EDX analysis also revealed that as a result of CeO2 contamination, sulfur and fluorine would be distributed all around the MEA, instead of being only in the membrane. The results illustrate that hydrofluoric acid (HF), sulfuric acid (H2SO4), and fluorinated polymer fragments are released, which enhance the crossover of the reactant gases through the membrane, hence reducing the cell’s performance. The I-V characteristic curves proved that the non-contaminated PEMFC setup had double the performance of the contaminated PEMFC.
Regarding Iodixanol for Pediatric CTA. Comment on Pop, M. Cardiothoracic CTA in Infants Referred for Aortic Arch Evaluation—Retrospective Comparison of Iomeprol 350, Ioversol 350, Iopromide 370 and Iodixanol 320. Children 2021, 8, 949
Authors: Nyman Ulf , Aspelin Peter
Published: May 2022

With interest, we read the publication ‘Cardiothoracic CTA in Infants Referred for Aortic Arch Evaluation—Retrospective Comparison of Iomeprol 350, Ioversol 350, Iopromide 370 and Iodixanol 320′ by Pop [...]
Low-Cost Area-Efficient FPGA-Based Multi-Functional ECDSA/EdDSA
Authors: Kieu-Do-Nguyen Binh , Pham-Quoc Cuong , Tran Ngoc-Thinh , Pham Cong-Kha , Hoang Trong-Thuc
Published: May 2022

In cryptography, elliptic curve cryptography (ECC) is considered an efficient and secure method to implement digital signature algorithms (DSAs). ECC plays an essential role in many security applications, such as transport layer security (TLS), internet protocol security (IPsec), and wireless sensor networks (WSNs). The proposed designs of ECC hardware implementation only focus on a single ECC variant and use many resources. These proposals cannot be used for resource-constrained applications or for the devices that need to provide multiple levels of security. This work provides a multi-functional elliptic curve digital signature algorithm (ECDSA) and Edwards-curve digital signature algorithm (EdDSA) hardware implementation. The core can run multiple ECDSA/EdDSA algorithms in a single design. The design consumes fewer resources than the other single-functional design, and is not based on digital signal processors (DSP). The experiments show that the proposed core could run up to 112.2 megahertz with Virtex-7 devices while consuming only 10,259 slices in total.
Comprehensive Genomic Profiling of Circulating Tumor DNA in Patients with Previously Treated Metastatic Colorectal Cancer: Analysis of a Real-World Healthcare Claims Database
Authors: Nakamura Yoshiaki , Olsen Steven , Zhang Nicole , Liao Jiemin , Yoshino Takayuki
Published: May 2022

We used a real-world database (GuardantINFORMTM) to analyze the treatment choices for patients with mCRC who underwent next-generation sequencing of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) using a commercially available test (Guardant360®) after first- or second-line therapy. From 18,875 patients with claims for CRC, 1064 had confirmed metastatic disease and sufficient histories for analysis (median age 59 years, 44.8% female, 44.5% left-sided). ctDNA was detectable for 997/1064 (93.7%) patients. Clinically actionable molecular profiles were present for 507/1064 (47.7%) patients, including those who had not received targeted therapy in the previous line (410/926, 44.3%). Second- or third-line targeted therapies were administered to 338/1064 patients (31.8%) and were considered matched for 193/338 (57.1%) patients. Therapies administered after testing were informed by the ctDNA results in 56.7% of patients overall (603/1064). Time to treatment discontinuation was most favorable for patients with a clinically actionable ctDNA profile who received matched therapy. This analysis demonstrates the real-world clinical value of plasma-based comprehensive genomic profiling for selecting appropriate molecular-targeted therapies in mCRC patients with disease progression after first- or second-line therapy.
A Bayesian Surprise Approach in Designing Cognitive Radar for Autonomous Driving
Authors: Zamiri-Jafarian Yeganeh , Plataniotis Konstantinos N.
Published: May 2022

This article proposes the Bayesian surprise as the main methodology that drives the cognitive radar to estimate a target’s future state (i.e., velocity, distance) from noisy measurements and execute a decision to minimize the estimation error over time. The research aims to demonstrate whether the cognitive radar as an autonomous system can modify its internal model (i.e., waveform parameters) to gain consecutive informative measurements based on the Bayesian surprise. By assuming that the radar measurements are constructed from linear Gaussian state-space models, the paper applies Kalman filtering to perform state estimation for a simple vehicle-following scenario. According to the filter’s estimate, the sensor measures the contribution of prospective waveforms—which are available from the sensor profile library—to state estimation and selects the one that maximizes the expectation of Bayesian surprise. Numerous experiments examine the estimation performance of the proposed cognitive radar for single-target tracking in practical highway and urban driving environments. The robustness of the proposed method is compared to the state-of-the-art for various error measures. Results indicate that the Bayesian surprise outperforms its competitors with respect to the mean square relative error when one-step and multiple-step planning is considered.
Energy Prices Impact on Inflationary Spiral
Authors: Bednář Ondřej , Čečrdlová Andrea , Kadeřábková Božena , Řežábek Pavel
Published: May 2022

Energy constitutes an essential share of costs across any economy. The percentage of electricity in the overall energy consumption is steadily increasing. This increase, however, is not reflected correctly in the consumption basket relevant for measuring inflation and, therefore, for monetary policy formulation. We argue that the energy mix reflected in inflation should be revised in favour of electricity. We present an analysis of inflationary pressures across Europe and decompose the impact of energy categories on headline inflation. Building on the inflation expectations framework, this study examines the characteristics and magnitude of the current energy price dynamics and quantifies its share in the countries’ effective inflation. Our research also confirms a compelling insight into the country’s energy structure and inflationary pressures when a larger share of renewable electricity sources proves to be associated with lower inflation. Finally, we argue that the energy price shock cannot be viewed as a one-shot event as in the case of oil price shocks in the past. We draw recommendations for monetary policy formulation. The implication of renewable sources on inflation should be of interest to policymakers, especially in times of high, almost galloping inflation rates in some European countries, unstable fossil energy sources supply due to geopolitical instability, and climate crisis.
A Study on the Improvement of Torque Density of an Axial Slot-Less Flux Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor for Collaborative Robot
Authors: Shin Dong-Youn , Jung Min-Jae , Lee Kang-Been , Lee Ki-Doek , Kim Won-Ho
Published: May 2022

In this paper, an axial slot-less permanent magnet synchronous motor (ASFPMSM) was designed to increase the power density. The iron core of the stator was replaced with block coils, and the stator back yoke was removed because 3D printing can provide a wide range of structures of the stator. The proposed model also significantly impacts efficiency because it can reduce iron loss. To meet size and performance requirements, coil thickness and number of winding layers in the block, the total amount of magnet, and pole/slot combinations were considered. The validity of the proposed model was proved via finite elements analysis (FEA).
Modeling of Multi-Layer Phase Change Material in a Triplex Tube under Various Thermal Boundary Conditions
Authors: Sefidan Ali M. , Sangari Mehdi E. , Sellier Mathieu , Khan Md. Imran Hossen , Saha Suvash C.
Published: May 2022

Nowadays, limited energy resources face ever-growing demands of the modern world. One engineering approach to mitigate this problem which has received considerable attention in recent years is using latent heat thermal storage (LHTS) systems, a significant opportunity which is provided by phase change materials (PCMs). In the present study, a numerical investigation was devoted to estimate the simultaneous freezing and melting processes of a double-layer PCM in terms of heat transfer and fluid flow phenomena. A double-pipe cylindrical channel with two compartments, A and B, was considered for locating two PCMs of RT28 and RT35 in various arrangements. The inner and outer walls were exposed to both hot and cold heat transfer fluids (HHTFs and CHTFs, respectively) beginning with solid or liquid initial state, which led to solid–liquid phase change process through PCMs. The numerical simulation was handled by a two-dimensional finite volume method (FVM) with a fixed Rayleigh number of 106 in which conduction and convection heat transfer mechanisms are taken into account. The effects of employing double-layer PCM and their arrangements, inner and outer walls’ boundary conditions, and initial statuses of PCMs are discussed, and the details of the compared results are shown in the form of temperature and liquid fraction variations over time.
Optimization of Oil Productivity from the Ultra−Depth Strike−Slip Fault−Controlled Carbonate Reservoirs in Northwestern China
Authors: He Xinxing , Wang Rujun , Yang Jianping , Li Shiyin , Yao Chao , Wu Guanghui
Published: May 2022

The largest ultra−deep (>7000 m) strike−slip fault−controlled oilfield was found in the tight Ordovician carbonates in the Tarim Basin. Because oil production wells in the Fuman Oilfield generally have bottom water, a reasonable production design is of significant importance for extending the water−free oil recovery period and improving oil recovery. However, there is no economical and effective quantitative method to determine a reasonable production capacity and a corresponding reasonable work system for stable−production wells in fault−controlled fractured carbonate reservoirs. In this contribution, we integrated the dynamic and static data of different types of wells in the Fuman Oilfield. It was found that there is a positive relationship between well−controlled dynamic reserves and reasonable productivity, and the productivity corresponding to the upper limit of the reserve can be defined as reasonable productivity. Further, we proposed a correlation equation between well−controlled dynamic reserves and reasonable productivity that shows the reasonable productivity of a stable well from the well−controlled dynamic reserve, which was obtained by combining the well productivity test and analogous well productivity test methods. The relationship between the reasonable productivity per unit nozzle and the rational productivity was obtained according to the determined matching relationship between the reasonable productivity of the stable−production well and the nozzle. The application results show that it can not only quickly determine the reasonable production capacity of stable−production wells but also deepen the understanding of the quantitative characteristics of the production capacity of the Fuman Oilfield. It also provides insight in the rational production allocation of new wells and optimize the development design, which supports the 1500 × 104 bbl/year oil production from the ultra−deep fractured carbonate reservoirs along the strike−slip fault zones in the Tarim Basin.
Effect of In-Pore Wettability on Mass Transfer Performance of Fuel Cell Gas Diffusion Layer
Authors: Niu Qinchuan , Li Minglin , Lai Lianfeng
Published: May 2022

The gas diffusion layer (GDL), as the main mass transfer carrier in a hydrogen fuel cell, transports fuel and discharges water, the only by-product of the electrochemical reaction. The dispersion process of water in the pore will hinder the diffusion of gas, thus reducing the concentration of fuel gas at the catalytic site, resulting in the decrease of the electrochemical reaction rate. In this paper, the effect of wettability in the GDL hole on the water transport process is studied. When the pore wall is hydrophilic, the liquid phase is affected by the gas phase eddy current velocity field, and the particles at the center advance to the edge, forming a liquid phase interface with a thin center and thick edge. With the increase of the wall contact angle, the curvature of the three-phase interface increases, the wall adhesion decreases, and the liquid phase is more likely to be discharged. When the contact angle is 130°, the liquid phase almost does not shift in the hole with a radius of 5 μm. With the increase of the radius or inlet pressure difference, the liquid phase is discharged gradually, and the discharge rate of the liquid phase is only related to the wettability of the wall.
Role of On-Site Generation in Carbon Emissions and Utility Bill Savings under Different Electric Grid Scenarios
Authors: Cheekatamarla Praveen
Published: May 2022

Energy-efficient and sustainable technologies are necessary to lower energy and carbon footprints. Many technologies are being pursued to meet the increasing energy demand in buildings. An attractive option is efficient utilization of available energy resources, including renewables, to support current and future building energy needs while targeting grid resiliency, energy, and environmental security at an affordable cost via on-site cogeneration-based approaches. This must include energy-efficient technologies with lower greenhouse gas emissions and optimized cost, performance, and reliability. This paper presents the economic and environmental benefits associated with power technologies such as thermionics and solid oxide fuel cells. Hybrid configurations consisting of heat pumps, power systems, and renewable photovoltaics in cogeneration and trigeneration modes of operation are presented. The role of such technologies in lowering CO2 emissions while improving energy resiliency and serving the needs of underprivileged communities is discussed. The key barriers of affordability and potential solutions for large-scale implementation of these promising technologies are reviewed. Case studies demonstrating the influence of power rating, electrical efficiency, design configuration, carbon dioxide intensity of the grid, and fuel on annual greenhouse gas emissions are presented for residential and commercial buildings.
High-Energy Electrochemical Capacitors
Authors: Mirzaeian Mojtaba
Published: May 2022

The decarbonization of energy to meet the low-carbon energy strategy set for 2050 has led to a continuous increase in the contribution of electricity generated from renewables to our growing energy demands, where their inherent intermittency of supply must be addressed by a step-change in energy storage [...]
Multi-Criteria Selection of Waste-to-Energy Technologies for Slum/Informal Settlements Using the PROMETHEE Technique: A Case Study of the Greater Karu Urban Area in Nigeria
Authors: Ukpanyang Donald , Terrados-Cepeda Julio , Hermoso-Orzaez Manuel Jesus
Published: May 2022

Slum/informal settlements are an integral part of a city, with a population projected to reach 3 billion by 2030. It is also expected that the rate of waste generation will more than triple by 2050 in the cities of low-income countries of sub-Saharan Africa. At this rate, the risk to the environment and health of inhabitants are enormous, because the current waste management practices are not guided by legislation on proper use and disposal. This paper proposes the conversion of waste to energy as a solution to this problem. The aim of this study is to apply the PROMETHEE technique with a combination weighting method to obtain the most appropriate waste-to-energy technology for the slum/informal settlements of the Greater Karu Urban area in Nigeria. The findings reveal that the gasification technology outperformed the other technologies, and the affordability of electricity supply from this technology was determined by a general survey conducted on the slum/informal settlements.
Load Frequency Control (LFC) Strategies in Renewable Energy-Based Hybrid Power Systems: A Review
Authors: Gulzar Muhammad Majid , Iqbal Muhammad , Shahzad Sulman , Muqeet Hafiz Abdul , Shahzad Muhammad , Hussain Muhammad Majid
Published: May 2022

The hybrid power system is a combination of renewable energy power plants and conventional energy power plants. This integration causes power quality issues including poor settling times and higher transient contents. The main issue of such interconnection is the frequency variations caused in the hybrid power system. Load Frequency Controller (LFC) design ensures the reliable and efficient operation of the power system. The main function of LFC is to maintain the system frequency within safe limits, hence keeping power at a specific range. An LFC should be supported with modern and intelligent control structures for providing the adequate power to the system. This paper presents a comprehensive review of several LFC structures in a diverse configuration of a power system. First of all, an overview of a renewable energy-based power system is provided with a need for the development of LFC. The basic operation was studied in single-area, multi-area and multi-stage power system configurations. Types of controllers developed on different techniques studied with an overview of different control techniques were utilized. The comparative analysis of various controllers and strategies was performed graphically. The future scope of work provided lists the potential areas for conducting further research. Finally, the paper concludes by emphasizing the need for better LFC design in complex power system environments.
Intestinal Lipase Characterization in Common Snook (Centropomus undecimalis) Juveniles
Authors: Concha-Frías Bartolo , Gaxiola-Cortes Martha , De la Cruz-Alvarado Fanny , Jimenez Martinez Luis , Peña-Marin Emyr , Oliva-Arriagada Marcia , Arias-Moscoso Joe , Alvarez-González Carlos
Published: May 2022

The common snook (Centropomus undecimalis) is a euryhaline fish with high commercial demand in the Mexican southeast, Caribbean, and South America. However, some aspects of its digestive physiology are still unknown, particularly in relation to lipid hydrolysis. Therefore, the characterization of the digestive lipase of this species was carried out. Our results show that the digestive lipase’s optimal temperature is 35 °C, being stable between 25 and 35 °C, and shows maximum activity at pH 9, with stability between pH 5 and 8. Different degrees of inhibition were presented by Orlistat (61.4%), Ebelactone A (90.36%), Ebelactone B (75.9%), SDS 1% (80.7%), SDS 0.1% (73.5%), and SDS at 0.01% (34.9%). Orlistat and Ebelactone A and B completely inhibited the lipase band in the zymogram, but not SDS addition. Lipase showed a molecular weight of 43.8 kDa. The high lipase activities in the digestive tract indicate the importance of lipids in the diet of C. undecimalis.
Modal Decomposition Techniques: Application in Coherent Structures for a Saccular Aneurysm Model
Authors: Yu Paulo , Durgesh Vibhav
Published: May 2022

Aneurysms are localized expansions of blood vessels which can be fatal upon rupture. Studies have shown that aneurysm flows exhibit complex flow phenomena which consist of single or multiple vortical structures that move within the flow cycle. Understanding the complex flow behaviors of aneurysms remain challenging. Thus, the goal of this study is to quantify the flow behavior and extract physical insights into aneurysm flows using advance data decomposition methods, Proper Orthogonal Decomposition (POD) and Dynamic Mode Decomposition (DMD). The velocity field data were obtained by performing 2D Particle Image Velocimetry (2D PIV) on the mid-plane of an idealized, rigid, saccular aneurysm model. The input flow conditions were set to Rep=50 and 150 for a fixed α=2 using a precisely controlled piston pump system. POD was used to quantify the spatial features of the flows, while DMD was used to obtain insight on the dynamics. The results obtained from POD and DMD showed the capability of both methods to quantify the flow field, with the modes obtained providing different insights into the flow evolution in the aneurysm. The curve-fitting step of the POD time-varying coefficients, and the appropriate selection of DMD modes based on their energy contribution, allowed the mathematical flow models from POD and DMD to reconstruct flow fields at any given time step. This can be used for validation of numerical or computational data.
Pharmacogenetic Perspective for Optimal Gout Management
Authors: Alrajeh Khalifa Y. , Roman Youssef M.
Published: May 2022

Pharmacogenetics (PGx) is an emerging field of pharmacology focusing on how gene variations affect the patient’s response to treatment. Pharmacogenetics is a promising tool to optimize the selection and dosing of medications, including urate-lowering therapies (ULTs) among patients with gout. The global prevalence of gout is rising, and it disproportionately affects specific racial groups and individuals with select socioeconomic status. Genetic and experimental findings have provided evidence that genetic polymorphisms associated with serum urate pathology are also of pharmacogenetic interest. Patients with gout present with several comorbidities, warranting the use of several acute and long-term medications that increase their pill burden and the risk of adverse drug events. Implementing PGx testing can identify individuals who are more or less likely to benefit from a given treatment, improve medication adherence, and reduce pill burden. The purpose of this non-systematic review was to evaluate the contemporary evidence for PGx use in gout management, especially treatment modalities associated with specific genetic polymorphisms that could impact medication safety and efficacy. Strong evidence suggests that individuals carrying the HLA-B*58:01 allele are at a higher risk of serious and life-threatening skin reactions when taking allopurinol. Additionally, racial disparities in the frequency of HLA-B*58:01 warrant genetic screening in high-risk populations, specifically some Asian subgroups and African Americans. Individuals that are G6PD-deficient can develop hemolytic anemia and methemoglobinemia with pegloticase and probenecid use. Patients with the less active form of the drug-metabolizing CYP2C9 are at higher risk for NSAID-related upper gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding. Emerging evidence of clinically significant drug-gene pairs among various gout therapies is growing. Genes found to modulate the response to allopurinol include AOX, ABCG2, and SLC22A12. Meanwhile, UGT1A1 appears to modulate the response to Febuxostat. While CYP2C9 may modulate the toxicity of benzbromarone, SLC22A12 and ABCB1 were found to modulate the response to both benzbromarone and probenecid. The genes CYP2D6, ABCB1, gene cluster (rs6916345 G>A), and SEPHS1 were recently reported to modulate the safety and efficacy of colchicine. Finally, HCG22 and IL1RN are linked with the response to corticosteroid and anakinra, respectively. This review examines and synthesizes the most current level of evidence for using PGx to maximize gout pharmacotherapy.
Ageing and Disability According to the Perspective of Clinical Psychology of Disability
Authors: Petretto Donatella R. , Pili Roberto
Published: May 2022

The progressive ageing of the global population is an important anthropological and social phenomenon, and it is due to the overall increasing of life expectancy and the overall increasing of health and living conditions, even if with various trends and speeds in various countries all over the world [...]
Folate Status as a Nutritional Indicator among People with Substance Use Disorder; A Prospective Cohort Study in Norway
Authors: Bemanian Mitra , Vold Jørn Henrik , Chowdhury Ranadip , Aas Christer Frode , Gjestad Rolf , Johansson Kjell Arne , Fadnes Lars Thore
Published: May 2022

Substance use disorder (SUD) is associated with poor nutrition. Vitamin B9, or folate, is an important micronutrient for health. The aim of this prospective longitudinal cohort study was to assess serum folate levels among people with SUD and to investigate the impact of factors related to substance use severity on folate status. Participants were recruited from outpatient clinics for opioid agonist therapy (OAT) and municipal health-care clinics for SUD in Western Norway. They were assessed annually, including blood sampling for determination of micronutrient status. Overall, 663 participants with a total of 2236 serum folate measurements were included. A linear mixed model was applied, and measures are presented as β-coefficients with 95% confidence interval (CI). Forty-eight percent (CI: 44–51) of the population had low serum folate levels (s-folate < 10 nmol/L), and 23% (CI: 20–26) were deficient (s-folate < 6.8 nmol/L) at baseline. Sixty percent (CI: 53–65) sustained their poor folate status in at least one subsequent assessment. Except for weekly use of cannabis (mean difference in serum folate [nmol/L]: −1.8, CI: −3.3, −0.25) and alcohol (1.9, CI: 0.15, 3.6), weekly use of no other substance class was associated with baseline differences in serum folate when compared to less frequent or no use. Injecting substances was associated with a reduction in serum folate over time (−1.2, CI: −2.3, −0.14), as was higher dosages of OAT medication (−1.1, CI: −2.2, −0.024). Our findings emphasize the need of addressing nutrition among people with severe SUD.
Displacement, Polygyny, Romantic Jealousy, and Intimate Partner Violence: A Qualitative Study among Somali Refugees in Ethiopia
Authors: Abudulai Farida , Pichon Marjorie , Buller Ana Maria , Scott Jennifer , Sharma Vandana
Published: May 2022

Romantic jealousy is a well-known relational driver of intimate partner violence (IPV), but is under-studied among displaced and polygynous populations. This study aimed to explore factors that elicit jealousy among Somali refugees in the Bokolmayo Refugee camp in Ethiopia, and the pathways leading from jealousy to IPV against women and men, to inform interventions. We conducted an exploratory, thematic analysis of 30 in-depth interviews with both women and men who were Somali refugees, as well as elders and religious leaders, organizational and service providers, policy makers, and host community members. We found that jealousy experienced by women was elicited by an unequal distribution of money and affection between co-wives, which was exacerbated by displacement-related economic hardship, and women in monogamous partnerships suspecting their husband of having other relationships. The jealousy experienced by men was elicited by their wives’ increased financial independence and interactions with other men when working outside of the home, which became more common because of displacement-related economic hardship and relaxed patriarchal gender norms. IPV interventions should address jealousy and controlling behaviors in all relationship types. Addressing conflict and relationship dynamics in polygynous households and in humanitarian settings may require specialized content, acknowledging the complex interactions and resource allocation between co-wives. Gender-transformative interventions that move away from masculinities that are built on the provider role and the introduction of alternative masculinities could also be effective in reducing IPV in this and other similar contexts.
Analysis of Environmental and Pathogenic Bacteria Attached to Aerosol Particles Size-Separated with a Metal Mesh Device
Authors: Yin Xiaobo , Kamba Seiji , Yamamoto Koki , Ogura Atsushi , Wandera Ernest Apondi , Shah Mohammad Monir , Seto Hirokazu , Kondo Takashi , Ichinose Yoshio , Hasegawa Makoto
Published: May 2022

Metal mesh devices (MMDs) are novel materials that enable the precise separation of particles by size. Structurally, MMDs consist of a periodic arrangement of square apertures of characteristic shapes and sizes on a thin nickel membrane. The present study describes the separation of aerosol particles using palm-top-size collection devices equipped with three types of MMDs differing in pore size. Aerosols were collected at a farm located in the suburbs of Nairobi, Kenya; aerosol particles were isolated, and pathogenic bacteria were identified in this microflora by next-generation sequencing analysis. The composition of the microflora in aerosol particles was found to depend on particle size. Gene fragments were obtained from the collected aerosols by PCR using primers specific for the genus Mycobacterium. This analysis showed that Mycobacterium obuense, a non-tuberculous species of mycobacteria that causes lung diseases, was present in these aerosols. These findings showed that application of this MMD analytical protocol to aerosol particles can facilitate the investigation of airborne pathogenic bacteria.
Warm-Up Intensity and Time-Course Effects on Jump Height under Cold Conditions
Authors: Chiba Itaru , Samukawa Mina , Takizawa Kazuki , Nishikawa Yuriko , Ishida Tomoya , Kasahara Satoshi , Yamanaka Masanori , Tohyama Harukazu
Published: May 2022

With this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of different warm-up intensities on counter-movement jump (CMJ) performance over time under cold conditions. Eleven male collegiate athletes volunteered. The participants performed high-intensity warm-up (HWU) at 80% VO2max and moderate-intensity warm-up (MWU) at 60% VO2max for 15 min on a bicycle ergometer in a laboratory room at 10 °C. CMJ height, vastus lateralis muscle temperature, heart rate, and perceived fatigue were measured before warm-up (Pre), immediately after (Post 0), 10 min after (Post 10), and 20 min after (Post 20). Significant main effects and interactions were found for CMJ height (time, p < 0.001 and ηp2 = 0.859; interaction, p = 0.007 and ηp2 = 0.327). HWU significantly increased CMJ height at Post 0 to Post 20 compared to that at Pre (p < 0.01), whereas MWU increased CMJ height at Post 0 only compared to that at Pre (p < 0.001). The results indicate that HWU achieved an increase in CMJ height for 20 min. MWU changed CMJ height instantly, but the change did not last compared to HWU in a cold environment.