bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trace elements content and antioxidant capacity in honey from protected phytogeographical regions in Uruguay
Authors: Moreni Real Arnaldo , Cabrera Cristina , Cracco Pablo , Cadenazzi Mónica , Pirotti Florencia , Santos Estela
Published: July 2023

Honey is a natural sweet substance produced by honey bees, from the nectars of plant flowers and honey dew. The components of honey vary depending on the geographical site and the existing flora. The objective of this work was to characterize Uruguayan honeys produced in different regions by composition of trace elements (Cu, Fe, Mn, Mo, Zn, I, Se), the antioxidant capacity, the total polyphenols, and the palynological profile. Sixty-six honey samples were obtained in two seasons, spring-summer and summer-autumn, from three regions of protected areas, and a fourth region associated with human activities. The results obtained show that the contents of Cu and Mn were significantly higher (P<0.05) in region C (1.785 ug/g and 4.668 ug/g). For Mo, the Q region presented 1.060 ug/g, being significantly different (P<0.05) from the other regions. The total polyphenol content from region C was significantly higher (P<0.05) (66.442 mg GAE/100g). Likewise, the antioxidant capacity presented significant differences (P<0.05) for region C in the spring-summerseason. Some species, genus or botanical families were only found in a particular region. This work allows us to affirm that honey can be differentiated by its micronutrient content associated with the total polyphenol content, and a higher antioxidant activity for certain regions, given by the floral species present in the region and the type of soil.
Cluster Analysis Approach to Identify Rock Type in Tertiary Reservoir of Khabaz Oil Field Case Study
Authors: Al Kattan Wafa , AL Jawad Sameer N. , Jomaah Haider Ashour
Published: July 2023

Rock type identification is very important task in Reservoir characterization in order to constrict robust reservoir models. There are several approaches have been introduced to define the rock type in reservoirs and each approach should relate the geological and petrophysical properties, such that each rock type is proportional to a unique hydraulic flow unit. A hydraulic flow unit is a reservoir zone that is laterally and vertically has similar flow and bedding characteristics. According to effect of rock type in reservoir performance, many empirical and statistical approaches introduced.  In this paper Cluster Analysis technique is used to identify the rock groups in tertiary reservoir for Khabaz oil field by analyses variation of petrophysical properties data that predicted by analysis of well log measurements.  In tertiary reservoir four groups identified by cluster analysis technique, were each group was internally similar in petrophysical properties and different from others groups.
Comparison of Petrophysical Properties Measurement Methods in Sandston Rocks
Authors: Aljawad Mohammed Saleh , Ali Abdullah Abdulhasan , Abdulkhadim Marwah Dhahir
Published: July 2023

This paper displays a survey about the laboratory routine core analysis study on ten sandstone core samples taken from Zubair Reservoir/West Quarna Oil Field. The Petrophysical properties of rock as porosity, permeability, grain's size, roundness and sorting, type of mineral and volumes of shales inside the samples were tested by many apparatus in the Petroleum Technology Department/ University of Technology such as OFITE BLP-530 Gas Porosimeter, PERG-200TM Gas Permeameter and liquid Permeameter, GeoSpec2 apparatus (NMR method), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and OFITE Spectral Gamma Ray Logger apparatus. By comparing all the results of porosity and permeability measured by these instruments, it is clear a significant variation in the values with the depth within same formation.  The porosity by gas, liquid and NMR are varied (15.4 - 35.9) %, (4.6 - 22.3) % and (2.4- 13.5) % respectively, While the permeability by gas, liquid and NMR were altered (0 - 512) md, (0-139.6) md and (1.577 x10-6 – 492) md respectively.
Shopping bags: own or plastic? Theoretical explanation of pro-environment consumer behavior in Vietnam
Authors: Guan Ming
Published: July 2023

Shopping bags have posed significant environmental burdens. The integrated model of theory of planned behavior (TPB) and norm activation model (NAM) was proposed to predict individuals' choice of shopping bags. Data from a cross-sectional study with a total of 536 respondents in Vietnam was used to test the proposed models and hypotheses. Results from linear regressions indicated that socioeconomic factors possibly were confounding factors for the main associations. Results from structural equation modeling showed that revised TPB, revised NAM and integrated model of TPB and NAM were good fit. Controlling for socioeconomic factors, mediation analyses showed that personal norms mediated the relationship between. The results of this research contribute to theory development in the area of pro-environmental purchase behavior.
An Analysis of Pharmaceutical Inventory Management at a Leading Teaching and Referral Hospital in Kenya
Authors: Abuka Ken , Oluka Margaret , Guantai Eric , Okalebo Faith , Okumu Mitchel Otieno
Published: July 2023

BACKGROUND: Proper pharmaceutical inventory management is critical in guiding decisions that mitigate cyclic stockouts. It sets purchasing priorities, informs the procurement of cost-effective drugs, and ensures that there is a balance between inventory expenditure and the demand for medications. This study aimed to evaluate the drug consumption and expenditure patterns at a leading referral hospital in Western Kenya i.e. the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH). Drug consumption and expenditure data at JOOTRH was analyzed over 3 years (2018-2020) using Therapeutic Class (TC), Always Better Control (ABC), and Vital Essential and Non-essential (VEN) analysis. Data sources included the Kenya Health Information System (KHIS), bin cards, invoices, delivery notes, and patient files.

RESULTS: The total pharmaceutical expenditure (TPE) over the study period was $ 1,329,213.91. The annual pharmaceutical expenditure (APE) was $ 389,158.51, $ 501,365.79, and $ 438,689.61 for 2018, 2019, and 2020 respectively. ABC analysis indicated that 53 (18.9%), 56 (19.9%), and 56 (19.9%) of items were Class A medicines in 2018, 2019, and 2020, respectively and consumed 70.2%, 71.7%, and 72.7% of the APE in 2018, 2019, and 2020 respectively. VEN analysis revealed that 173 drugs were classified as vital items in each of the years 2018, 2019, and 2020 and consumed 77.7%, 75.1%, and 74.2% of the APE in 2018, 2019, and 2020 respectively. TC analysis indicated that anti-infectives were the most consumed class of medicine over the study period and consumed 27.4%, 23.5%, and 30.4% of the APE in 2018, 2019, and 2020 respectively.

CONCLUSIONS: According to this analysis, Category I pharmaceuticals accounted for the majority of the total pharmaceutical expenditure at the hospital and require special attention for control.
Current issues of teaching methods of physics and astronomy in educational institutions of various levels: the curriculum of the discipline “Current issues of teaching methods of physics and astronomy in educational institutions of various levels” the curriculum of the discipline for higher education applicants of the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in the specialty "014 Secondary education"
Authors:   Institute of Pedagogy of the National Academy of Educational Sciences of Ukraine, Holovko Mykola , Sipii Volodymyr ,   Institute of Pedagogy of the National Academy of Educational Sciences of Ukraine
Published: July 2023

The content of the course reveals the specifics of the formation of domestic methods of teaching physics and astronomy, its development trends; gives an idea of modern physical experiment with the use of digital measuring laboratories and the possibilities of information and communication technologies, the possibility of creating and operating in an educational institution STEM-laboratories.
Teatro y violencia: la influencia de la tragedia griega en Martillo de Rodrigo García
Authors:   UNED, Navarro Noguera Andrea
Published: July 2023

Rodrigo García (1964-), in his play Martillo (1989), re-writes the Greek myth of the Atreides, moving away from tradition and recreating a unique type of tragedy. This article seeks to establish some parameters to account for the general willingness, on the part of the director, to explore the characterization of classical heroes. We will pay attention to women, particularly to the role of Clytemnestra within a myth based on the internal and external violence of the «oikos».
Esperpento y cuerpo violento: Angélica Liddell entre misoginia y feminismo
Authors:   Brooklyn College, Valderrama Mara
Published: July 2023

This essay studies the seeming contradiction between An-gelica Liddell’s feminism in some of her plays and the misogynistic turn in her more recent works, especially The Scarlet Letter (2018). The theo-retical framework includes Paul B. Preciado’s concept of «auto-guinea pig» and Rebecca Schneider’s “explicit body” to analyze the ways in which physical violence is central to Liddell’s work. The essay then lo-cates Liddell in a lineage of Spanish theatrical traditions: the 19th cen-tury genre astracán and the esperpento, conceptualized by playwright Valle-Inclán in 1920. In this light, Liddell’s violent and provocative per-formative language becomes part of a consolidated tradition rather than an irreverent provocation. This article analyzes case studies such as Yo no soy bonita (2005), La casa de la fuerza (2009) y The Scarlet Letter (2018)
Efforts To Prevent the Transmission of COVID-19 Through Empowerment of MTS Amaliyah School Teachers About the 5m COVID-19 Movement in Facing Offline Learning for Academic Year 2021/2022
Authors: Nurbaiti  , Darti Nur Afi , Siregar Farida Linda Sari , Ariadni Dwi Karina
Published: July 2023

The rise of Covid 19 cases during this pandemic has compelled the government to implement various strategies and rules that the entire community must adhere to. Griffith University Australia (2020), Indonesia should no longer apply the 3M health protocol as a step to anticipate the spread of Covid 19. The increased number cases in Indonesia forces the implementation of 5M health protocol to prevent the spread of Covid 19, which includes washing hands with soap and running water, wearing masks, maintaining physical distance, avoiding crowds, and limiting mobility, in accordance with the regulation of the Minister of Health. The start of 2021 offline learning in July becomes one of the major challenges that compels teachers to be familiar with this regulation. Therefore, various direct strategies to people are required in order to increase their knowledge and understanding. The objective of this community service is to increase the understanding and capacity of the teachers and all education personnel of MTs (Islamic Junior High School) Amaliyah to prevent the spread of Covid 19 by implementing the 5M health protocol, as well as assisting the provision of offline learning preparation tools such as masks, gloves, hand soap, disinfectants, social distancing stickers, and portable hand-washing stations.
Village Library Empowerment in an Effort to Increase Reading Interest in Children in Aman Damai Village, Sirapit District Langkat Regency
Authors: Siregar Onan M , Selwendri
Published: July 2023

The low interest in children to read books is a problem that must be overcome by village apparatus in Aman Damai Village of Sirapit District.  In addition, the management of the library is still very simple so that it is not able to attract the community, especially children to come, besides the lack of facilities and infrastructure. The purpose of providing solutions offered is to improve the administration and management system of village libraries in an effort to increase reading interest in children. This community service is addressed to the village apparatus as library manager and children. Methods used in achieving these goals include socialization to children and parents about the importance of reading interest in children and training in improving village apparatus skills in managing village libraries, providing books of various types such as textbooks to comic books for children. This community service is also done to train village apparatus in managing library through the provision of codes and numbers on books, drafting, to the lending system that can be done by children. The conclusion of this community service is that nowadays children visit the library more often because the available books can attract children’s interest to read. Moreover, the management and administration of library has become more organized than before.
Acidentes e complicações em exodontias: revisão de literatura
Authors: Lima Wynona Katlen da Silva , Araújo Danielle Camila Vieira de , Bezerra Diomara de Oliveira , Meira Gabriela Figueiredo , Sá Juliana Lopes de
Published: July 2023

Os fatores de complicações na cirurgia de extração dentária, bem como também da extração de molares é um dos procedimentos considerados mais comuns realizados por cirurgiões bucomaxilofaciais. Este artigo aborda a incidência de complicações específica em cirurgia bucomaxilofaciais, visando oferecer uma estratégia preventiva ou de gestão. Deste modo, compreende-se que as complicações, como dor, alveolite, inchaço, parestesia do nervo lingual ou alveolar inferior, sangramento e infecção são os mais comuns. Fatores que podem influenciar a incidência de complicações após a remoção do terceiro molar incluem idade, sexo, histórico médico, contraceptivos orais, presença de pericoronarite, má higiene oral, tabagismo, tipo de impacção, relação do molar com o nervo alveolar, tempo cirúrgico, técnica cirúrgica, experiência do cirurgião. Os métodos aplicados para este estudo ocorreram através de uma revisão de literatura do tipo transversal. Os resultados apresentados destacam que, para o clínico geral, bem como para o dentista e cirurgião bucomaxilofacial, é importante conhecer todas as complicações possíveis após este procedimento. Isso melhora a educação do paciente e leva à prevenção, reconhecimento precoce e gerenciamento.
Results from a phase I trial of pembrolizumab plus vorinostat in relapsed/refractory B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma
Authors: Godfrey James , Mei Matthew , Chen Lu , Song Joo Y. , Bedell Victoria , Budde Elizabeth , Armenian Saro , Puverel Sandrine , Nikolaenko Liana , Chen Robert , Daniels Shari , Kennedy Neena , Peters Lacolle , Rosen Steven T. , Forman Stephen J. , Popplewell Leslie L. , Kwak Larry W. , Herrera Alex F.
Published: July 2023

Outcomes after programmed death-1 (PD-1) blockade in B-cell lymphomas are disappointing with few durable responses. Histone deacetylase inhibitors exhibit favorable immunomodulatory effects and demonstrate synergistic anti-tumor immune responses with anti-PD-1 therapy in preclinical models. We, therefore, developed a phase I study to evaluate the safety and preliminary efficacy of pembrolizumab with vorinostat in relapsed/refractory B-cell lymphomas. Patients were treated in a dose-escalation cohort using a Rolling 6 design followed by an expansion cohort at the recommended phase II dose (R2PD). Fifty-two patients were enrolled (32 Hodgkin and 20 non-Hodgkin lymphoma [NHL]). Here, we report safety data from the dose escalation cohort, and the toxicity and efficacy within NHL patients. Vorinostat was administered twice daily on days 1-5 and 8-12 (dose-level [DL]1: 100 mg; DL2: 200 mg) and pembrolizumab (200 mg) was administered on day 1 of each 3-week cycle. Of six patients treated at DL1, one had a dose-limiting toxicity (DLT) (Stevens-Johnson syndrome [SJS]), and one of six had a DLT at DL2 (thromboembolism); therefore, DL2 was the RP2D. The patient developing SJS was treated with corticosteroids, infliximab, and cyclosporine but ultimately died of invasive fungal infection from the extensive immunosuppression used to treat the SJS. The most common adverse events were hypertension, diarrhea, and cytopenias. Of 20 NHL patients, nine had follicular lymphoma (FL) and 11 had diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). Five DLBCL patients had primary mediastinal B-cell lymphoma (PMBL). The complete and overall response rates (CR and ORR) were 11% and 22% for FL and 45% and 55% for all DLBCL. Amongst DLBCL, the CR and ORR was 80% and 80% for PMBL and 17% and 33% for non-PMBL. In conclusion, pembrolizumab with vorinostat was tolerable and produced responses in relapsed/refractory B-cell NHL, with particularly notable efficacy in PMBL (clinicaltrials gov. Identifier: NCT03150329).
A novel infrastructure for the continuous monitoring of soil CO2 emissions: a case study at the alto Tiberina near fault observatory in Italy
Authors: Caracausi Antonio , Camarda Marco , Chiaraluce Lauro , De Gregorio Sofia , Favara Rocco , Pisciotta Antonino
Published: July 2023

Static and dynamic stress, along with earthquakes, can trigger the emission and migration of crustal fluids, as frequently observed on the surface and within the upper crust of tectonically active areas such as the northern Apennines of Italy. To investigate the origin of these fluids and their interconnection with the seismogenic process, we complemented The Alto Tiberina Near Fault Observatory (TABOO-NFO), a multidisciplinary monitoring infrastructure composed of a dense array of seismic, geodetic, strain, and radon sensors, with a proper geochemical network grounded on four soil CO2 flux monitoring stations and weather sensors, placed near the main vents of the superficial manifestations. The TABOO-NFO is a state-of-the-art monitoring infrastructure, which allows for studying various geophysical parameters connected to the deformation processes active along a crustal fault system dominated by the Alto Tiberina fault (ATF), which is a 60 km long normal fault dipping at a low angle (<15°–20°). The region is favourable for conducting geochemical studies, as it is characterised by the presence of over-pressurised fluids trapped at certain depths and superficial manifestations associated with the emission of large quantities of fluids. After describing the theoretical framework and the technological aspects based on which we developed the geochemical monitoring network, we described the data recorded in the first months. Over the studied period, the results showed that soil CO2 flux was primarily influenced by environmental parameters, and that the selected sites received a regular supply of deep-origin CO2.
The potential of the Medical Digital Twin in diabetes management: a review
Authors: Chu Yanting , Li Shanhong , Tang Jie , Wu Huiqun
Published: July 2023

Diabetes is a chronic prevalent disease that must be managed to improve the patient's quality of life. However, the limited healthcare management resources compared to the large diabetes mellitus (DM) population are an obstacle that needs modern information technology to improve. Digital twin (DT) is a relatively new approach that has emerged as a viable tool in several sectors of healthcare, and there have been some publications on DT in disease management. The systematic summary of the use of DTs and its potential applications in DM is less reported. In this review, we summarized the key techniques of DTs, proposed the potentials of DTs in DM management from different aspects, and discussed the concerns of this novel technique in DM management.
Gene expression signatures associated with chronic endometritis revealed by RNA sequencing
Authors: Oshina Kyoko , Kuroda Keiji , Nakabayashi Kazuhiko , Tomikawa Junko , Kitade Mari , Sugiyama Rikikazu , Hata Kenichiro , Itakura Atsuo
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Chronic endometritis (CE) is a persistent inflammatory condition of the endometrium characterized by the infiltration of plasma cells in the endometrial stroma. CD138 immunohistochemistry is considered to improve the CE diagnosis rate.

Methods

Using the number of CD138-positive cells equal or greater than five as a diagnostic criterion for CE, we identified 24 CE and 33 non-CE cases among women with infertility. We conducted RNA-sequencing analysis for these 57 cases in total as an attempt to elucidate the molecular pathogenesis of CE and to search for new biomarkers for CE.

Results and Discussion

By comparing CE and non-CE groups, we identified 20 genes upregulated in the endometria of CE patients, including 12 immunoglobulin-related genes and eight non-immunoglobulin genes as differentially expressed genes. The eight genes were MUC5AC, LTF, CAPN9, MESP1, ACSM1, TVP23A, ALOX15, and MZB1. By analyzing samples in the proliferative and secretory phases of the menstrual cycle separately, we also identified four additional non-immunoglobulin genes upregulated in CE endometria: CCDC13 by comparing the samples in the proliferative phase, and OVGP1, MTUS2, and CLIC6 by comparing the samples in the secretory phase. Although the genes upregulated in CE may serve as novel diagnostic markers of CE, many of them were upregulated only in a limited number of CE cases showing an extremely high number of CD138-positive cells near or over one hundred. Exceptionally, TVP23A was upregulated in the majority of CE cases regardless of the number of CD138-positive cells. The upregulation of TVP23A in the endometria of CE cases may reflect the pathophysiology of a cell-type or cell-types intrinsic to the endometrium rather than the accumulation of plasma cells. Our data, consisting of clinical and transcriptomic information for CE and non-CE cases, helped us identify gene expression signatures associated with CE.
National trends in incidence and geographic distribution of melanoma and keratinocyte carcinoma in the Russian Federation
Authors: Muntyanu Anastasiya , Ghazawi Feras M. , Pastukhova Elena , Zubarev Andrei , Litvinov Ivan V.
Published: July 2023

Keratinocyte Carcinomas (KC), including basal cell and cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas, are the most common skin cancers in Fitzpatrick phototype I-III individuals, while melanoma is one of the deadliest skin cancer types. The incidence of both melanoma and KC is increasing in Russia. KCs’ incidence increases from north-to-south across the Russian Federation. In contrast, while melanoma’s incidence increases from north-to-south in the eastern part of the country, in the west of Russia a reverse latitude gradient trend is noted, where northern more affluent regions of Russia display higher rates of melanoma than the southern jurisdictions. Furthermore, our detailed analysis of incidence by jurisdiction highlights that affluent northern capital cities have higher rates of melanoma than the surrounding regions. The observed melanoma incidence trends in the western portion of Russia are similar to the findings in the western Europe and opposite of the findings in Canada.
Additive screening and formula optimization of microbial inhibitor having disease prevention and growth promotion effects on Avena sativa
Authors: Zhang Jiangui , Yao Tuo , Gong Wenlong , Gao Yamin , Zhao Guiqin
Published: July 2023

In order to develop environment friendly microbial inhibitor that can also control disease and promote oat (Avena sativa) growth, the growth rate method and response surface methodology were used to screen wetting agents, preservatives and protective agents at optimal concentrations in this study. Antagonistic activity of the tested bacterium and cell-free fermentation liquid against pathogenic fungi was evaluated on potato dextrose agar (PDA) substratum plates by dual culture technique. Oxford cup method was used to measure antagonistic reaction between screened bacteria. According to each screened bacteria with 50 mL were mixed and cultured in Luria-bertani (LB) substratum. Additives of Wetting agents, UV-protectors, and preservatives were screened by single factor test on the growth concentration of screened mixed bacteria. Afterwards, the optimal additives and concentrations were screened by Box-Behnken method. The microbial inhibitor was detected according to national standards GB20287-2006 and tested on oat in a pot experiment. The results showed that: (1) Functional bacteria which including Bacillus velezensis and Brevundimonas faecalis had control effects of 50.00% to 83.29% on three pathogenic fungi, and their cell free-fermentation liquid could inhibit the growth of pathogenic fungi from 23.51% to 39.90%; (2) Tween-80 was most suitable as wetting agents for Mix biocontrol bacteria (MBB) with 1.00% mass fraction; Sorbitol was selected as UV protective agents for MBB with 0.50% mass fraction. And methyl paraben was used as a preservative for MBB, with 0.50% mass fraction; (3) The most effective adjuvant contained 14.96 mL/L Tween-80, 5.12 g/L methylparaben and 5.6 g/L sorbitol; and (4) The microbial inhibitor controlled 45.57% of oat root rot and increased plant height, root length and seedling biomass. This study provides a suitable environment for the protection of mixed biocontrol bacteria, and lays a foundation for the prevention and control of oat diseases, the promotion of growth and the improvement of quality.
Changes in resting-state functional MRI connectivity during and after transcranial direct current stimulation in healthy adults
Authors: Bouchard Amy E. , Renauld Emmanuelle , Fecteau Shirley
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) applied over the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) at rest can influence behaviors. However, its mechanisms remain poorly understood. This study examined the effect of a single session of tDCS over the bilateral DLPFC on resting-state functional connectivity using fMRI (rs-fcMRI) during and after stimulation in healthy adults. We also investigated whether baseline rs-fcMRI predicted tDCS-induced changes in rs-fcMRI.

Methods

This was a randomized, sham-controlled, double-blind, crossover study. We delivered tDCS for 30 min at 1 mA with the anode and cathode over the left and right DLPFC, respectively. We used seed-based analyses to measure tDCS-induced effects on whole-brain rs-fcMRI using a 3 (before, during, after stimulation) × 2 (active, sham stimulation) ANOVA.

Results

There were four significant Time × Stimulation interactions on the connectivity scores with the left DLPFC seed (under the anode electrode) and no interactions for the right DLPFC seed (under the cathode electrode). tDCS changed rs-fcMRI between the left DLPFC seed and parieto-occipital, parietal, parieto-occipitotemporal, and frontal clusters during and after stimulation, as compared to sham. Furthermore, rs-fcMRI prior to stimulation predicted some of these tDCS-induced changes in rs-fcMRI during and after stimulation. For instance, rs-fcMRI of the fronto-parietooccipital network predicted changes observed after active stimulation, rs-fcMRI of the fronto-parietal network predicted changes during active stimulation, whereas rs-fcMRI of the fronto-parieto-occipitotemporal and the frontal networks predicted changes both during and after active stimulation.

Discussion

Our findings reveal that tDCS modulated rs-fcMRI both during and after stimulation mainly in regions distal, but also in those proximal to the area under the anode electrode, which were predicted by rs-fcMRI prior to tDCS. It might be worth considering rs-fcMRI to optimize response to tDCS.
An innovative EEG-based emotion recognition using a single channel-specific feature from the brain rhythm code method
Authors: Li Jia Wen , Lin Di , Che Yan , Lv Ju Jian , Chen Rong Jun , Wang Lei Jun , Zeng Xian Xian , Ren Jin Chang , Zhao Hui Min , Lu Xu
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Efficiently recognizing emotions is a critical pursuit in brain–computer interface (BCI), as it has many applications for intelligent healthcare services. In this work, an innovative approach inspired by the genetic code in bioinformatics, which utilizes brain rhythm code features consisting of δ, θ, α, β, or γ, is proposed for electroencephalography (EEG)-based emotion recognition.

Methods

These features are first extracted from the sequencing technique. After evaluating them using four conventional machine learning classifiers, an optimal channel-specific feature that produces the highest accuracy in each emotional case is identified, so emotion recognition through minimal data is realized. By doing so, the complexity of emotion recognition can be significantly reduced, making it more achievable for practical hardware setups.

Results

The best classification accuracies achieved for the DEAP and MAHNOB datasets range from 83–92%, and for the SEED dataset, it is 78%. The experimental results are impressive, considering the minimal data employed. Further investigation of the optimal features shows that their representative channels are primarily on the frontal region, and associated rhythmic characteristics are typical of multiple kinds. Additionally, individual differences are found, as the optimal feature varies with subjects.

Discussion

Compared to previous studies, this work provides insights into designing portable devices, as only one electrode is appropriate to generate satisfactory performances. Consequently, it would advance the understanding of brain rhythms, which offers an innovative solution for classifying EEG signals in diverse BCI applications, including emotion recognition.
Choroidal circulation disturbance is an initial factor in outer retinal degeneration in rats under simulated weightlessness
Authors: Mu Yuxue , Wei Dongyu , Yao Lilingxuan , Xu Xinyue , Li Shaoheng , Cao Ruidan , Chen Tao , Zhang Zuoming
Published: July 2023

Objective: Microgravity contributes to ocular injury yet the underlying mechanism remains unclear. This study aims to elucidate the mechanism behind choroidal circulation disorder and outer retinal degeneration in rats with simulated weightlessness.

Methods: Optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) was used to evaluate choroidal circulation and retinal morphological alterations in rats with weightlessness simulation. Electroretinogram and transmission electron microscopy were used to examine the ultrastructure and function of the choroid and outer retina. Furthermore, histological and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase deoxyuridine dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) staining was used to monitor retinal morphology. Western blotting was performed to analyze the expressions of blood-retinal outer barrier function-related proteins (Cx43, ZO-1, and occludin).

Results: The choroidal thickening was observed from the fourth week of simulated weightlessness (p < 0.05), and choroidal capillary density started to decline by the fifth week (p < 0.05). Transmission electron microscopy revealed that the choroidal vessels were open and operating well by the fourth week. However, most of the mitochondria within the vascular endothelium underwent mild swelling, and by the fifth week, the choroidal vessels had various degrees of erythrocyte aggregation, mitochondrial swelling, and apoptosis. Additionally, ERG demonstrated a decline in retinal function beginning in the fifth week (p < 0.05). TUNEL staining revealed a significantly higher apoptotic index in the outer nuclear layer of the retina (p < 0.05). At the sixth week weeks of simulated weightlessness, OCTA and hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining of retinal sections revealed that the outer nuclear layer of the retina started to become thin (p < 0.05). Results from western blotting revealed that Cx43, ZO-1, and occludin exhibited decreased expression (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Based on our findings in a rat model of simulated weightlessness, choroidal circulation disturbance induced by choroidal congestion is the initial cause of outer retinal degeneration. Blood-retinal barrier disruption is significant in this process.
Psychosocial Oncology: Optimizing Outcomes through Interdisciplinary Care in Head and Neck Oncology
Authors: Henry Melissa
Published: July 2023

Head and neck squamous cell carcinomas arise from the mucosal epithelium of the oral cavity (lips, buccal mucosa, anterior tongue, hard palate, floor of mouth, and retromolar trigone), nasopharynx, oropharynx (tonsils, base of tongue, soft palate, uvula, and posterior pharyngeal wall), hypopharynx, and larynx [...]
Synchronization Induced by Layer Mismatch in Multiplex Networks
Authors: Anwar Md Sayeed , Rakshit Sarbendu , Kurths Jürgen , Ghosh Dibakar
Published: July 2023

Heterogeneity among interacting units plays an important role in numerous biological and man-made complex systems. While the impacts of heterogeneity on synchronization, in terms of structural mismatch of the layers in multiplex networks, has been studied thoroughly, its influence on intralayer synchronization, in terms of parameter mismatch among the layers, has not been adequately investigated. Here, we study the intralayer synchrony in multiplex networks, where the layers are different from one other, due to parameter mismatch in their local dynamics. In such a multiplex network, the intralayer coupling strength for the emergence of intralayer synchronization decreases upon the introduction of impurity among the layers, which is caused by a parameter mismatch in their local dynamics. Furthermore, the area of occurrence of intralayer synchronization also widens with increasing mismatch. We analytically derive a condition under which the intralayer synchronous solution exists, and we even sustain its stability. We also prove that, in spite of the mismatch among the layers, all the layers of the multiplex network synchronize simultaneously. Our results indicate that a multiplex network with mismatched layers can induce synchrony more easily than a multiplex network with identical layers.
Search for the Optimal Design of a Supercritical-CO2 Brayton Power Cycle from a Superstructure-Based Approach Implemented in a Commercial Simulation Software
Authors: Zhao Qiao , Mecheri Mounir , Neveux Thibaut , Privat Romain , Jaubert Jean-Noël , Le Moullec Yann
Published: July 2023

Improving the efficiency and flexibility of fossil-fired power plants remains a current and challenging issue. In that regard, supercritical CO2 Brayton cycles offer promising potential. This paper aims to apply a process synthesis approach to the design of a closed Brayton cycle using supercritical CO2 as a working fluid with a coal furnace as a heat source. The general methodology presented here for designing closed power cycles includes the construction of a superstructure containing all relevant possible cycle layouts, the formulation of the cycle-synthesis problem as a mathematical optimization problem, and its solution using an appropriate algorithm. This study was conducted with the help of a process simulation commercial software (PROSIM) and using the Mixed-Integer Distributed Ant Colony Optimization (MIDACO) as a commercial optimization algorithm. This work highlights the limits of a purely technical optimization approach that would ignore the economical layer. The optimal structure obtained regarding Levelized Cost Of Electricity (LCOE) minimization is a configuration with one reheat of the supercritical CO2 in the boiler, two recuperators, and one recompression loop around the low-temperature recuperator; it is associated with a cycle efficiency of 49.35 % and a 10% reduction in the LCOE in comparison to the optimal case found through energy optimization under typical design heuristics constraints.
Study of the Variation of Fuel Pressure to Improve Spraying and the Range of the Injection Jet
Authors: Rojas-Reinoso Vicente , Duque-Escobar Stalin , Guapulema-Guapulema Christian , Soriano José Antonio
Published: July 2023

The current study is focused on how varying injection pressure in the fuel supply system of multi-point injection systems can improve fuel atomization and injection jet range. The aim is to achieve a more efficient mix dosage, thus improving combustion and reducing exhaust emissions. In addition, it is intended to develop a characterization of the injection actuators, specifically the injectors, through a series of tests in which the injector pressure, engine speed and injection pulse are modified. To carry out these tests, a heuristic testing technique, like the empirical approach, was implemented, and a mobile device was used to capture the spray frames of the injectors. These data were then used to generate a correlation model between injection and spray angles, considering 0.5 bar pressure variation intervals within the established ranges. This approach made it possible to visualize and record the behavior of the spray in the injector, including the spray angle, the injected fuel flow rate and the working pressure during the operation process. Following the guidelines established in the proposed methodology, a significant result was obtained by varying the pressure at 5 bar and with an injection pulse of 2 ms. In this case, a flow reduction of 66 mL of the injected fluid was achieved, which corresponds to a significant reduction in fuel consumption. Additionally, a spray angle of 10.48° was observed with optimized atomization. These results were verified on vehicles with similar injection systems by testing on the GT-600-PRO injection test bench. In summary, this study shows that by varying the injection pressure and optimizing other parameters, it is possible to achieve a significant reduction in fuel consumption and improve fuel atomization in multipoint injection systems. These findings have a significant impact on the Ecuadorian vehicle fleet and provide a scientific approach to improving fuel efficiency and performance.
Fundamental Shifts in the EU’s Electric Power Sector Development: LMDI Decomposition Analysis
Authors: Koval Viktor , Khaustova Viktoriia , Lippolis Stella , Ilyash Olha , Salashenko Tetiana , Olczak Piotr
Published: July 2023

The electric power sector plays a central role in changing the EU’s energy landscape and establishing Europe as the first climate-neutral continent in the world. This paper investigates fundamental shifts in the EU’s electric power sector by carrying out its logarithmic mean Divisia index decomposition by stages of electricity flows on a large-scale basis (for both the entire EU and its 25 member states) for the period 1995–2021 and identifies the individual contribution of each EU member state to these shifts. In this study, four decomposition models were proposed and 14 impact factors (extensive, structural, and intensive) affecting the development of the EU electric power sector were evaluated in absolute and relative terms. It was found that the wind–gas transition, which took place in the EU’s electric power sector, was accompanied by an increase in the transformation efficiency of inputs in electricity generation and a drop in the intensity of final energy consumption. The non-industrial reorientation of the EU’s economy also resulted in a decrease in the final electricity consumption. At the same time, this transition led to negative shifts in the structure and utilization of its generation capacities. The fundamental shifts occurred mainly at the expense of large economies (Germany, France, Spain, and Italy), but smaller economies (Romania, Poland, Croatia, the Netherlands, and others) made significant efforts to accelerate them, although their contributions on a pan-European scale were less tangible.
Open-Access Model of a PV–BESS System: Quantifying Power and Energy Exchange for Peak-Shaving and Self Consumption Applications
Authors: Alpízar-Castillo Joel , Vega-Garita Victor , Narayan Nishant , Ramirez-Elizondo Laura
Published: July 2023

Energy storage is vital for a future where energy generation transitions from a fossil fuels-based one to an energy system that relies heavily on clean energy sources such as photovoltaic (PV) solar energy. To foster this transition, engineers and practitioners must have open-access models of PV systems coupled with battery storage systems (BESS). These models are fundamental to quantifying their economic and technical merits during the design phase. This paper contributes in this direction by carefully describing a model that accurately represents the power directions and energy dealings between the PV modules, the battery pack, and the loads. Moreover, the general model can be implemented using two different PV generation methods, the Gaussian model and the meteorological data-based model (MDB). We found that the MDB model is more appropriate for short-term analysis compared to the Gaussian model, while for long-term studies, the Gaussian model is closer to measured data. Moreover, the proposed model can reproduce two different energy management strategies: peak-shaving and maximizing self-consumption, allowing them to be used during PV–BESS sizing stages. Furthermore, the results obtained by the simulation are closed when compared to a real grid-tied PV–BESS, demonstrating the model’s validity.
Entropy Production Analysis in an Octagonal Cavity with an Inner Cold Cylinder: A Thermodynamic Aspect
Authors: Saboj Jiaul Haque , Nag Preetom , Saha Goutam , Saha Suvash C.
Published: July 2023

Understanding fluid dynamics and heat transfer is crucial for designing and improving various engineering systems. This study examines the heat transfer characteristics of a buoyancy-driven natural convection flow that is laminar and incompressible. The investigation also considers entropy generation (Egen) within an octagonal cavity subject to a cold cylinder inside the cavity. The dimensionless version of the governing equations and their corresponding boundary conditions have been solved numerically using the finite element method, employing triangular mesh elements for discretization. The findings indicated that incorporating a cold cylinder inside the octagonal cavity resulted in a higher heat transfer (HT) rate than in the absence of a cold cylinder. Furthermore, using the heat flux condition led to a higher average Nusselt number (Nuavg) and a lower Bejan number (Be) than the isothermal boundary condition. The results also showed that HT and Egen were more significant in the Al2O3-H2O nanofluid than the basic fluids such as air and water, and HT increased as χ increased. The current research demonstrates that employing the heat flux condition and incorporating nanoparticles can enhance the rate of HT and Egen. Furthermore, the thermo-fluid system should be operated at low Ra to achieve greater HT effectiveness for nanofluid concerns.
Performance Evaluation of Irrigation Canals Using Data Envelopment Analysis for Efficient and Sustainable Irrigation Management in Jharkhand State, India
Authors: Nigam Jay , Raju Totakura , Pannala Ramachandra
Published: July 2023

Across the world, achieving sustainable water resource development and managing limited natural resources like water have proven to be significant issues, and India is no exception to the same. At present, irrigation consumes about 80 percent of the total available water in India and is predicted to remain the dominant water user. India is already a country with water stress and is on its way to becoming a country with water scarcity. Rising agricultural productivity, expanding urbanisation, growing industrialisation, and accelerating industry create competing demands for water. Most irrigation system issues in India are attributable to poor management of the built infrastructure. The present study aims to rank the irrigation canals based on their efficiencies and inefficiencies to improve the overall performance of WUAs in Jharkhand. The ranking is done for nine irrigation canals based on financial inputs like investments in training and development of WUAs, maintenance and repairs of canals, and outputs like users’ charges collection and yield in crop production. The Comprehensive Efficiency score analysis suggests that while there is room for improvement in the performance, the Water Users’ Associations have generally been successful in improving the technical efficiency of the irrigation system. The findings can be used for further investigation to identify best practises and areas for improvement.
Mycobacterium tuberculosis Inhibitors Based on Arylated Quinoline Carboxylic Acid Backbones with Anti-Mtb Gyrase Activity
Authors: Quimque Mark Tristan J. , Go Adrian D. , Lim Justin Allen K. , Vidar Warren S. , Macabeo Allan Patrick G.
Published: July 2023

New antitubercular agents with either a novel mode of action or novel mode of inhibition are urgently needed to overcome the threat of drug-resistant tuberculosis (TB). The present study profiles new arylated quinoline carboxylic acids (QCAs) having activity against replicating and non-replicating Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), the causative agent of TB. Thus, the synthesis, characterization, and in vitro screening (MABA and LORA) of 48 QCAs modified with alkyl, aryl, alkoxy, halogens, and nitro groups in the quinoline ring led to the discovery of two QCA derivatives, 7i and 7m, adorned with C-2 2-(naphthalen-2-yl)/C-6 1-butyl and C-2 22-(phenanthren-3-yl)/C-6 isopropyl, respectively, as the best Mtb inhibitors. DNA gyrase inhibition was shown to be exhibited by both, with QCA 7m illustrating better activity up to a 1 μM test concentration. Finally, a docking model for both compounds with Mtb DNA gyrase was developed, and it showed a good correlation with in vitro results.
Functionalization of Octacalcium Phosphate Bone Graft with Cisplatin and Zoledronic Acid: Physicochemical and Bioactive Properties
Authors: Kuvshinova Ekaterina A. , Petrakova Nataliya V. , Nikitina Yulia O. , Sviridova Irina K. , Akhmedova Suraja A. , Kirsanova Valentina A. , Karalkin Pavel A. , Komlev Vladimir S. , Sergeeva Natalia S. , Kaprin Andrey D.
Published: July 2023

Bones are the fourth most frequent site of metastasis from malignant tumors, including breast cancer, prostate cancer, melanoma, etc. The bioavailability of bone tissue for chemotherapy drugs is extremely low. This requires a search for new approaches of targeted drug delivery to the tumor growth zone after surgery treatment. The aim of this work was to develop a method for octacalcium phosphate (OCP) bone graft functionalization with the cytostatic drug cisplatin to provide the local release of its therapeutic concentrations into the bone defect. OCP porous ceramic granules (OCP ceramics) were used as a platform for functionalization, and bisphosphonate zoledronic acid was used to mediate the interaction between cisplatin and OCP and enhance their binding strength. The obtained OCP materials were studied using scanning electron and light microscopy, high-performance liquid chromatography, atomic emission spectroscopy, and real-time PCR. In vitro and in vivo studies were performed on normal and tumor cell lines and small laboratory animals. The bioactivity of initial OCP ceramics was explored and the efficiency of OCP functionalization with cisplatin, zoledronic acid, and their combination was evaluated. The kinetics of drug release and changes in ceramics properties after functionalization were studied. It was established that zoledronic acid changed the physicochemical and bioactive properties of OCP ceramics and prolonged cisplatin release from the ceramics. In vitro and in vivo experiments confirmed the biocompatibility, osteoconductivity, and osteoinductivity, as well as cytostatic and antitumor properties of the obtained materials. The use of OCP ceramics functionalized with a cytostatic via the described method seems to be promising in clinics when primary or metastatic tumors of the bone tissue are removed.