bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Longitudinal Training and Workload Assessment in Young Friesian Stallions in Relation to Fitness: Part 1
Authors: Siegers Esther , van Wijk Emma , van den Broek Jan , Sloet van Oldruitenborgh-Oosterbaan Marianne , Munsters Carolien
Published: February 2023

Friesian stallions have to complete a 10-week studbook approval test (70-day test) consisting of dressage and driving training for acceptance as a breeding stallion. Training response of the horses to this approval program was evaluated. External workload (EW) of 16 stallions (3.2 ± 0.4 years old) was registered during the 9 weeks preceding the 70-day test (preparation period) and during 70-day test. Ridden indoor standardized exercise tests (SET), measuring heart rate (HR) and plasma lactate concentration (LA) at walk, trot and canter, were performed in week 1 (SET-I), 6 (SET-II) and 10 (SET-III) of the 70-day test. Linear mixed effect models were used to analyze HR and LA related to SETs and EW related to the phase of the study, using Akaike’s information criterion for model reduction. EW was higher in the 70-day test compared to the preparation period, with longer duration of training sessions. Compared to SET-I, horses showed increased HR and LA after canter in SET-II and SET-III, indicating that they were more fatigued. The fact that the fitness of these Friesian stallions decreased during the 70-day test suggests overtraining. To optimize training effects and welfare of these horses, the workload of the training program needs to be adjusted.
The Effect of Housing Environment on Commercial Brown Egg Layer Production, USDA Grade and USDA Size Distribution
Authors: Alig Benjamin N. , Ferket Peter R. , Malheiros Ramon D. , Anderson Kenneth E.
Published: February 2023

Consumer demand for retail cage-free eggs is driving the layer industry towards greater use of extensive housing environments. However, there is limited research on how these environments affect egg production characteristics of brown egg layers, as was the focus of this study. Five housing environments were evaluated under typical industry conditions, including conventional cages, enrichable colony cages, enriched colony cages, cage-free and free-range. Three different brown egg laying strains were housed in the different housing environments and managed according to standard husbandry practices and stocking densities. Data collection for the strains began at 17 weeks of age, with a base period of 28 days for feed weigh backs and egg quality assessments. Housing environment had a highly significant (p < 0.0001) effect on all egg production characteristics measured, including egg production rates (% hen-day and % hen-housed), feed consumption (g/bird/day), feed conversion (egg g/feed g), and mortality rate (%) as well as percent grade A, B, and loss. Previous research revealed better egg production metrics for white egg layers in caged environments than extensive environments. In contrast, we observed brown egg layers had optimum production results for the free-range housing environments, and the poorest performance in enrichable colony cages.
Listening to Their Nights: Sleep Disruptions in Captive Housed Chimpanzees Affect Their Daytime Behavior
Authors: Ayuso Pablo R. , Feliu Olga , Riba David , Crailsheim Dietmar
Published: February 2023

Chimpanzee’s nocturnal sleep is a dynamic and complex process, still not fully understood. As in humans, not getting enough quality sleep due to frequent or lasting disruptions may affect their physical and mental health, hence wellbeing, which may be reflected in their daytime behavior. This study aims to understand the impact of abiotic factors, such as temperature and humidity on the nocturnal activity as well as the impact of nocturnal awakening events on daytime behavior in sanctuary-housed chimpanzees. We monitored noisy nocturnal activity through audio recordings for one year, documenting the number and duration of sound events produced by chimpanzees to indicate sleep fragmentation and disruption intensity, respectively. Our results indicate that indoor temperature and humidity indeed influence the chimpanzee’s nocturnal activity. Furthermore, sleep fragmentation and intensity of nocturnal events significantly influenced the following day’s behavior. After nights marked by frequent and/or intense sleep disruptions, higher levels of inactivity, and abnormal and self-directed behaviors were observed, and chimpanzees spent more time on affiliative interactions and in social proximity. These findings highlight the importance of controlling factors influencing nocturnal sleep quality. Furthermore, we demonstrated that economic audio recordings used to monitor nocturnal activity, provide insights into the chimpanzee’s behavior and wellbeing.
Study on Fracture Behavior of Directly Covered Thick Hard Roof Based on Bearing Capacity of Supports
Authors: Li Jiawen , Fu Baojie , Zhang Hualei , Zhao Qingchong , Bu Qingwei
Published: February 2023

Mine pressure at the working face is severe due to it being directly covered by a thick hard roof. To further investigate the technology of controlling the mine pressure of a thick hard roof, the upper working face of 13,121 in Gubei mine of Huainan mining area was used as the engineering background, and similar simulation experiments, mechanical analysis, numerical simulation, and engineering applications were used to obtain the structure of a pre-cracked cut roof cut falling body, as well as establishing the mechanical model of hydraulic brace support resistance and direct covering. The results of the numerical simulation combined with the 20 m step pre-cracked top cutting showed that the cantilever length of the roof plate in the mining area was shortened by 25.61%, the stress concentration was reduced by 31.74%, and the stress level of the hydraulic brace was reduced by 26.59–28.38%, destroying the integrity of the thick hard rock body. According to the field monitoring data analysis, the working face’s initial pressure step and periodic pressure step were reduced, and the average dynamic load coefficients of the initial pressure and periodic pressure were 1.43 and 1.33, respectively, with a small dispersion of the dynamic load coefficient of the bracket. The pressure at the working face is regulated, and the chosen support equipment, in conjunction with the roof cutting scheme, can meet the thick hard roof’s support needs.
Fault Type Diagnosis of the WWTP Dissolved Oxygen Sensor Based on Fisher Discriminant Analysis and Assessment of Associated Environmental and Economic Impact
Authors: Luca Alexandra-Veronica , Simon-Várhelyi Melinda , Mihály Norbert-Botond , Cristea Vasile-Mircea
Published: February 2023

Sensor failures are common events in wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) operations, resulting in ineffective monitoring and inappropriate plant management. Efficient aeration control is typically achieved by the dissolved oxygen (DO) control, and its associated sensor becomes critical to the whole WWTP’s reliable and economical operation. This study presents the Fisher discriminant analysis (FDA) used for fault diagnosis of the DO sensor of a currently operating municipal WWTP. Identification of the bias, drift, wrong gain, loss of accuracy, fixed value, complete failure minimum and maximum types of DO sensor fault was investigated. The FDA-proposed methodology proved efficiency and promptitude in obtaining the diagnosis decision. The consolidated fault identification showed an accuracy of 87.5% correct identification of the seven faulty and normal considered classes. Depending on the fault type, the results of the diagnosing time varied from 2.5 h to 16.5 h during the very first day of the fault appearance and were only based on observation data not included in the training data set. The latter aspect reveals the potential of the methodology to learn from incomplete data describing the faults. The rank of the fault type detection promptitude was: bias, fixed value, complete failure minimum, complete failure maximum, drift, wrong gain and loss of accuracy. Greenhouse gases (GHGs) such as nitrous oxide (N2O) and carbon dioxide (CO2) emitted during wastewater treatment, electrical energy quantity in association with costs spent in the WWTP water line and clean water effluent quality were ranked and assessed for the normal operation and for each of the DO sensor faulty regimes. Both for CO2 and N2O, the on-site emissions showed the most significant GHG contribution, accounting for about three-quarters of the total emissions. The complete failure maximum, fixed value and loss of accuracy were the DO sensor faults with the highest detrimental impact on GHG-released emissions. The environmental and economic study reveals the incentives of the proposed DO sensor faults identification for the WWTP efficient and environmentally friendly operation.
Gothic Drawing and Drawings in the Gothic Tradition in the Iberian Peninsula (13th–18th Centuries)
Authors: Ibáñez Fernández Javier
Published: February 2023

The inventory and cataloguing of the architectural drawings in the Gothic tradition made In the Iberian Peninsula has brought together exceptional sources that were previously scattered, usually little-known and valued, and, in many cases, unpublished. These materials can now be analyzed from multiple points of view, notably as tools for planning and surveying; as invaluable documents for the study of the enterprises they represent or helped to develop; as sources for the study of master builders; and as data sets for the analysis of the typological models, vaulting solutions, and rib-vault designs used in Gothic architecture—and in architecture of Gothic tradition—built in the Iberian Peninsula throughout the Middle Ages and Early Modern period.
Extreme Temperature and Rainfall Events and Future Climate Change Projections in the Coastal Savannah Agroecological Zone of Ghana
Authors: Ankrah Johnson , Monteiro Ana , Madureira Helena
Published: February 2023

The global climate has changed, and there are concerns about the effects on both humans and the environment, necessitating more research for improved adaptation. In this study, we analyzed extreme temperature and rainfall events and projected future climate change scenarios for the coastal Savannah agroecological zone (CSAZ) of Ghana. We utilized the ETCCDI, the RClimDex software (version 1.0), the Mann–Kendall test, Sen’s slope estimator, and standardized anomalies to analyze homogeneity, trends, magnitude, and seasonal variations in temperature (Tmax and Tmin) and rainfall datasets for the zone. The SDSM was also used to downscale future climate change scenarios based on the CanESM2 (RCP 2.6, 4.5, and 8.5 scenarios) and HadCM3 (A2 and B2 scenarios) models for the zone. Model performance was evaluated using statistical methods such as R2, RMSE, and PBIAS. Results revealed more changepoints in Tmin than in Tmax and rainfall. Results again showed that the CSAZ has warmed over the last four decades. The SU25, TXn, and TN90p have increased significantly in the zone, and the opposite is the case for the TN10p and DTR. Spatially varied trends were observed for the TXx, TNx, TNn, TX10p, TX90p, and the CSDI across the zone. The decrease in RX1day, RX5day, SDII, R10, R95p, and R99p was significant in most parts of the central region compared to the Greater Accra and Volta regions, while the CDD significantly decreased in the latter two regions than in the former. The trends in CWD and PRCPTOT were insignificant throughout the zone. The overall performance of both models during calibration and validation was good and ranged from 58–99%, 0.01–1.02 °C, and 0.42–11.79 °C for R2, RMSE, and PBIAS, respectively. Tmax is expected to be the highest (1.6 °C) and lowest (−1.6 °C) across the three regions, as well as the highest (1.5 °C) and lowest (−1.6 °C) for the entire zone, according to both models. Tmin is projected to be the highest (1.4 °C) and lowest (−2.1 °C) across the three regions, as well as the highest (1.4 °C) and lowest (−2.3 °C) for the entire zone. The greatest (1.6 °C) change in mean annual Tmax is expected to occur in the 2080s under RCP8.5, while that of the Tmin (3.2 °C) is expected to occur in the 2050s under the same scenario. Monthly rainfall is expected to change between −98.4 and 247.7% across the three regions and −29.0 and 148.0% for the entire zone under all scenarios. The lowest (0.8%) and highest (79%) changes in mean annual rainfall are expected to occur in the 2030s and 2080s. The findings of this study could be helpful for the development of appropriate adaptation plans to safeguard the livelihoods of people in the zone.
Avifaunal Diversity and Abundance in the Proposed Sarasalai Mangrove Reserve, Jaffna, Sri Lanka
Authors: Aloysius Nitharsan , Madhushanka Shashi , Chandrika Chathuri
Published: February 2023

Mangrove ecosystems are excellent habitats for migrating and resident birds. The proposed Sarasalai mangrove reserve is located in one of the richest waterbird zones in Sri Lanka. This site has never been properly studied as a single site for its avifaunal diversity. Hence, the present study aims to find avifaunal diversity in the Sarasalai mangrove. Data collection was performed from April to December 2021. Eight permanent sampling stations were demarcated along the existing roads and were visited twice a month to collect bird abundance data. A total of 107 bird species belonging to 45 families including 58 waterbird species were recorded in the present study. Bird abundance did not significantly differ among the eight studied sites. Studied sites with the availability of water and good tree cover had the highest Shannon Diversity Index. The mangrove vegetation, with tall grasses, and the high water level were significant factors for bird abundance in some sites. Monthly bird abundance showed a notable increase during the migratory months. Among the recorded bird species, Greater Flamingos showed the highest abundance. Moreover, some rare waterbirds including Indian Spot-billed Duck and Glossy Ibis were commonly recorded. Several putative threats have been recorded during this study, namely unplanned land encroachments, bird hunting, and clearing of mangroves. Although this site has a high value in providing a healthy habitat for many wetland birds, it is yet to be declared a protected area. The lack of a clear boundary and a governing body to protect this area exacerbates its protection issues. Hence, it is proposed that immediate legal actions must be taken to declare this important migratory bird area a mangrove forest reserve.
Distinct H3K27me3 and H3K27ac Modifications in Neural Tube Defects Induced by Benzo[a]pyrene
Authors: Lin Shanshan , Wang Chengrui , Li Zhiwen , Qiu Xiu
Published: February 2023

The pathological mechanisms of neural tube defects (NTDs) are not yet fully understood. Although the dysregulation of histone modification in NTDs is recognized, it remains to be fully elucidated on a genome-wide level. We profiled genome-wide H3K27me3 and H3K27ac occupancy by CUT&Tag in neural tissues from ICR mouse embryos with benzo[a]pyrene (BaP)-induced NTDs (250 mg kg−1) at E9.5. Furthermore, we performed RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) to investigate the regulation of histone modifications on gene expressions. Gene ontology and KEGG analysis were conducted to predict pathways involved in the development of NTDs. Our analysis of histone 3 lysine 27 modification in BaP-NTD neural tissues compared to BaP-nonNTD revealed 6045 differentially trimethylated regions and 3104 acetylated regions throughout the genome, respectively. The functional analysis identified a number of pathways uniquely enriched for BaP-NTD embryos, including known neurodevelopment related pathways such as anterior/posterior pattern specification, ephrin receptor signaling pathway, neuron migration and neuron differentiation. RNA-seq identified 423 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between BaP-NTD and BaP-nonNTD group. The combination analysis of CUT&Tag and RNA-seq found that 55 DEGs were modified by H3K27me3 and 25 by H3K27ac in BaP-NTD, respectively. In the transcriptional regulatory network, transcriptional factors including Srsf1, Ume6, Zbtb7b, and Cad were predicated to be involved in gene expression regulation. In conclusion, our results provide an overview of histone modifications during neural tube closure and demonstrate a key role of genome-wide alterations in H3K27me3 and H3K27ac in NTDs corresponding with changes in transcription profiles.
New Challenges in the Management of Cholangiocarcinoma: The Role of Liver Transplantation, Locoregional Therapies, and Systemic Therapy
Authors: Mauro Ezequiel , Ferrer-Fàbrega Joana , Sauri Tamara , Soler Alexandre , Cobo Amparo , Burrel Marta , Iserte Gemma , Forner Alejandro
Published: February 2023

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a neoplasm with high mortality that represents 15% of all primary liver tumors. Its worldwide incidence is on the rise, and despite important advances in the knowledge of molecular mechanisms, diagnosis, and treatment, overall survival has not substantially improved in the last decade. Surgical resection remains the cornerstone therapy for CCA. Unfortunately, complete resection is only possible in less than 15–35% of cases, with a risk of recurrence greater than 60%. Liver transplantation (LT) has been postulated as an effective therapeutic strategy in those intrahepatic CCA (iCCA) smaller than 3 cm. However, the low rate of early diagnosis in non-resectable patients justifies the low applicability in clinical practice. The evidence regarding LT in locally advanced iCCA is scarce and based on small, retrospective, and, in most cases, single-center case series. In this setting, the response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy could be useful in identifying a subgroup of patients with biologically less aggressive tumors in whom LT may be successful. The results of LT in pCCA are promising, however, we need a very careful selection of patients and adequate experience in the transplant center. Locoregional therapies may be relevant in unresectable, liver-only CCA. In iCCA smaller than 2 cm, particularly those arising in patients with advanced chronic liver disease in whom resection or LT may not be feasible, thermal ablation may become a reliable alternative. The greatest advances in the management of CCA occur in systemic treatment. Immunotherapy associated with chemotherapy has emerged as the gold standard in the first-line treatment. Likewise, the most encouraging results have been obtained with targeted therapies, where the use of personalized treatments has shown high rates of objective and durable tumor response, with clear signs of survival benefit. In conclusion, the future of CCA treatment seems to be marked by the development of new treatment strategies but high-quality, prospective studies that shed light on their use and applicability are mandatory.
Safety, Feasibility and Efficacy of Lokomat® and Armeo®Spring Training in Deconditioned Paediatric, Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Patients
Authors: Atkinson Morgan , Tully Angela , Maher Carol A. , Innes-Wong Christopher , Russo Ray N. , Osborn Michael P.
Published: February 2023

Background: Rehabilitation robotics is a field of study which aims to understand and augment rehabilitation through the use of robotics devices. Objective: This proof of concept study aimed to test the safety (no. adverse events, incidence of infection), feasibility (program demand, adherence, participant satisfaction) and efficacy (Peak Oxygen uptake (VO2peak), 6-min walk test, gait speeds, Canadian Occupational Performance Measure, quality of life) of Lokomat® and Armeo®Spring training in children and adolescents and young adults (AYAs) during or soon after cancer treatment. Method: This was a 6-week single arm pre-post study. Cancer patients with significant musculoskeletal, neurological, gait and/or upper limb deficiency aged 5 to 25 years were recruited. The rehabilitation program included access to two robotic orthoses: the Lokomat® and/or Armeo®Spring. Robotic devices utilised real-time biofeedback and computer games to engage and guide participants through a repetitive functional range of movement aimed at improving functional deficiencies. Progressive increases in exercise intensity and duration were encouraged. Results: Twentey-eight participants were approached for study; twenty-one consented. Seventy-six percent completed the six-week intervention with an overall adherence of 83%. The mean participant satisfaction score was 8.8/10. Forty-nine adverse events were recorded throughout the course of the study, forty-five grade 1, three grade 2 and one grade 3. No adverse events led to withdrawal from the study. Preliminary efficacy results indicate large beneficial effects on VO2peak (r = 0.63), 10 m comfortable pace walk (r = 0.51) and maximal pace walk (r = 0.60), 6-min walk test (r = 0.60), maximal back and leg strength (r = 0.71), trunk flexibility (r = 0.60), The European Organization for the Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ C30) (r = 0.61), Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy–Fatigue (FACIT F) r = 0.53 and the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure, satisfaction (r = 0.88) and performance scores (r = 0.83), and moderate beneficial effects on Leisure Score Index (LSI) (r = 0.30). Conclusion: Our results suggest that Lokomat® and Armeo®Spring training is safe and feasible for use in children and AYAs who are currently undergoing or have recently completed cancer therapy. A larger controlled trial investigating the efficacy of robotics rehabilitation in this cohort is warranted.
Urine CA125 and HE4 for the Detection of Ovarian Cancer in Symptomatic Women
Authors: Barr Chloe E. , Njoku Kelechi , Owens Gemma L. , Crosbie Emma J.
Published: February 2023

The symptoms of ovarian cancer are vague, and current risk assessment tools such as serum CA125 and transvaginal ultrasound scan fail to reliably detect the disease early. This study aimed to evaluate urine CA125 and HE4 as diagnostic biomarkers for ovarian cancer in symptomatic women. Paired urine and serum samples were collected from women undergoing treatment for ovarian cancer (cases) or investigations for gynaecological symptoms (controls). Biomarkers were measured using an automated chemiluminescent enzyme immunoassay analyser. Standard diagnostic accuracy metrics were calculated. In total, 114 women were included, of whom 17 (15%) were diagnosed with an epithelial ovarian malignancy. Levels of urine CA125 and HE4 were significantly elevated in women with ovarian cancer compared to controls [CA125: 8.5 U/mL (IQR: 2.4–19.5) vs. 2.3 U/mL (IQR: 1.0–6.4), p = 0.01. HE4: 12.0 nmol/L (IQR: 10.3–23.1) vs. 6.7 nmol/L (IQR: 3.4–13.6), p = 0.006]. Urine CA125 and HE4 detected ovarian cancer with an AUC of 0.69 (95% CI: 0.55–0.82) and 0.71 (95% CI: 0.69–0.82), respectively (p = 0.73). A combination of urine CA125 and HE4 at optimal thresholds had a sensitivity of 82.4% (95% CI: 56.6–96.2) and was comparable to the sensitivity of serum CA125 [88.2% (95% CI: 63.6–98.5)]. Larger studies are required to confirm our findings, standardise urine collection, and evaluate optimal biomarker thresholds. Urine CA125 and HE4 may be useful non-invasive diagnostic tools to triage women for formal ovarian cancer investigations.
Recent Advances in Optimizing Radiation Therapy Decisions in Early Invasive Breast Cancer
Authors: Riaz Nazia , Jeen Tiffany , Whelan Timothy J. , Nielsen Torsten O.
Published: February 2023

Adjuvant whole breast irradiation after breast-conserving surgery is a well-established treatment standard for early invasive breast cancer. Screening, early diagnosis, refinement in surgical techniques, the knowledge of new and specific molecular prognostic factors, and now the standard use of more effective neo/adjuvant systemic therapies have proven instrumental in reducing the rates of locoregional relapses. This underscores the need for reliably identifying women with such low-risk disease burdens in whom elimination of radiation from the treatment plan would not compromise oncological safety. This review summarizes the current evidence for radiation de-intensification strategies and details ongoing prospective clinical trials investigating the omission of adjuvant whole breast irradiation in molecularly defined low-risk breast cancers and related evidence supporting the potential for radiation de-escalation in HER2+ and triple-negative clinical subtypes. Furthermore, we discuss the current evidence for the de-escalation of regional nodal irradiation after neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Finally, we also detail the current knowledge of the clinical value of stromal tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes and liquid-based biomarkers as prognostic factors for locoregional relapse.
LncRNA LINC01094 Promotes Cells Proliferation and Metastasis through the PTEN/AKT Pathway by Targeting AZGP1 in Gastric Cancer
Authors: Gong Zhe , Zhang Yanqiu , Yang Yue , Yang Yanan , Zhang Jieyun , Wang Yixuan , Zhao Liqin , Yu Nuoya , Wu Zhenhua , Guo Weijian
Published: February 2023

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) were recently reported to play an essential role in multiple cancer types. Herein, through next-generation sequencing, we screened metastasis-driving molecules by using tissues from early-stage gastric cancer (GC) patients with lymph node metastasis, and we identified a lncRNA LINC01094, which was associated with the metastasis of GC. According to the clinical data from the TCGA, GSE15459, and GSE62254 cohorts, the high expression of LINC01094 was associated with an unfavorable prognosis. Moreover, 106 clinical GC and paired normal samples were collected, and the qRT-PCR results showed that the high expression of LINC01094 was associated with high T and N stages and a poor prognosis. We found that LINC01094 promotes the proliferation and metastasis of GC in vitro and in vivo. AZGP1 was found as the protein-binding partner of LINC01094 by using RNA pulldown and RNA-binding protein immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays. LINC01094 antagonizes the function of AZGP1, downregulates the expression of PTEN, and further upregulates the AKT pathway. Collectively, our results suggested that LINC01094 might predict the prognosis of GC patients and become the therapy target for GC.
NKG2A Immune Checkpoint in Vδ2 T Cells: Emerging Application in Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Cazzetta Valentina , Depierreux Delphine , Colucci Francesco , Mikulak Joanna , Mavilio Domenico
Published: February 2023

Immune regulation has revolutionized cancer treatment with the introduction of T-cell-targeted immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). This successful immunotherapy has led to a more complete view of cancer that now considers not only the cancer cells to be targeted and destroyed but also the immune environment of the cancer cells. Current challenges associated with the enhancement of ICI effects are increasing the fraction of responding patients through personalized combinations of multiple ICIs and overcoming acquired resistance. This requires a complete overview of the anti-tumor immune response, which depends on a complex interplay between innate and adaptive immune cells with the tumor microenvironment. The NKG2A was revealed to be a key immune checkpoint for both Natural Killer (NK) cells and T cells. Monalizumab, a humanized anti-NKG2A antibody, enhances NK cell activity against various tumor cells and rescues CD8 αβ T cell function in combination with PD-1/PD-L1 blockade. In this review, we discuss the potential for targeting NKG2A expressed on tumor-sensing human γδ T cells, mostly on the specific Vδ2 T cell subset, in order to emphasize its importance and potential in the development of new ICI-based therapeutic approaches.
Metallocavitins as Advanced Enzyme Mimics and Promising Chemical Catalysts
Authors: Shteinman Albert A.
Published: February 2023

The supramolecular approach is becoming increasingly dominant in biomimetics and chemical catalysis due to the expansion of the enzyme active center idea, which now includes binding cavities (hydrophobic pockets), channels and canals for transporting substrates and products. For a long time, the mimetic strategy was mainly focused on the first coordination sphere of the metal ion. Understanding that a highly organized cavity-like enzymatic pocket plays a key role in the sophisticated functionality of enzymes and that the activity and selectivity of natural metalloenzymes are due to the effects of the second coordination sphere, created by the protein framework, opens up new perspectives in biomimetic chemistry and catalysis. There are two main goals of mimicking enzymatic catalysis: (1) scientific curiosity to gain insight into the mysterious nature of enzymes, and (2) practical tasks of mankind: to learn from nature and adopt from its many years of evolutionary experience. Understanding the chemistry within the enzyme nanocavity (confinement effect) requires the use of relatively simple model systems. The performance of the transition metal catalyst increases due to its retention in molecular nanocontainers (cavitins). Given the greater potential of chemical synthesis, it is hoped that these promising bioinspired catalysts will achieve catalytic efficiency and selectivity comparable to and even superior to the creations of nature. Now it is obvious that the cavity structure of molecular nanocontainers and the real possibility of modifying their cavities provide unlimited possibilities for simulating the active centers of metalloenzymes. This review will focus on how chemical reactivity is controlled in a well-defined cavitin nanospace. The author also intends to discuss advanced metal–cavitin catalysts related to the study of the main stages of artificial photosynthesis, including energy transfer and storage, water oxidation and proton reduction, as well as highlight the current challenges of activating small molecules, such as H2O, CO2, N2, O2, H2, and CH4.
Evidence for Epistatic Interaction between HLA-G and LILRB1 in the Pathogenesis of Nonsegmental Vitiligo
Authors: Oliveira-Caramez Maria Luiza de , Veiga-Castelli Luciana , Souza Andreia S. , Cardili Renata Nahas , Courtin David , Flória-Santos Milena , Donadi Eduardo , Giuliatti Silvana , Sabbagh Audrey , Castelli Erick C. , Mendes-Junior Celso Teixeira
Published: February 2023

Vitiligo is the most frequent cause of depigmentation worldwide. Genetic association studies have discovered about 50 loci associated with disease, many with immunological functions. Among them is HLA-G, which modulates immunity by interacting with specific inhibitory receptors, mainly LILRB1 and LILRB2. Here we investigated the LILRB1 and LILRB2 association with vitiligo risk and evaluated the possible role of interactions between HLA-G and its receptors in this pathogenesis. We tested the association of the polymorphisms of HLA-G, LILRB1, and LILRB2 with vitiligo using logistic regression along with adjustment by ancestry. Further, methods based on the multifactor dimensionality reduction (MDR) approach (MDR v.3.0.2, GMDR v.0.9, and MB-MDR) were used to detect potential epistatic interactions between polymorphisms from the three genes. An interaction involving rs9380142 and rs2114511 polymorphisms was identified by all methods used. The polymorphism rs9380142 is an HLA-G 3′UTR variant (+3187) with a well-established role in mRNA stability. The polymorphism rs2114511 is located in the exonic region of LILRB1. Although no association involving this SNP has been reported, ChIP-Seq experiments have identified this position as an EBF1 binding site. These results highlight the role of an epistatic interaction between HLA-G and LILRB1 in vitiligo pathogenesis.
Sexually Dimorphic Alterations in the Transcriptome and Behavior with Loss of Histone Demethylase KDM5C
Authors: Bonefas Katherine M. , Vallianatos Christina N. , Raines Brynne , Tronson Natalie C. , Iwase Shigeki
Published: February 2023

Chromatin dysregulation has emerged as a major hallmark of neurodevelopmental disorders such as intellectual disability (ID) and autism spectrum disorders (ASD). The prevalence of ID and ASD is higher in males compared to females, with unknown mechanisms. Intellectual developmental disorder, X-linked syndromic, Claes-Jensen type (MRXSCJ), is caused by loss-of-function mutations of lysine demethylase 5C (KDM5C), a histone H3K4 demethylase gene. KDM5C escapes X-inactivation, thereby presenting at a higher level in females. Initially, MRXSCJ was exclusively reported in males, while it is increasingly evident that females with heterozygous KDM5C mutations can show cognitive deficits. The mouse model of MRXSCJ, male Kdm5c-hemizygous knockout animals, recapitulates key features of human male patients. However, the behavioral and molecular traits of Kdm5c-heterozygous female mice remain incompletely characterized. Here, we report that gene expression and behavioral abnormalities are readily detectable in Kdm5c-heterozygous female mice, demonstrating the requirement for a higher KDM5C dose in females. Furthermore, we found both shared and sex-specific consequences of a reduced KDM5C dose in social behavior, gene expression, and genetic interaction with the counteracting enzyme KMT2A. These observations provide an essential insight into the sex-biased manifestation of neurodevelopmental disorders and sex chromosome evolution.
How Did the COVID-19 Pandemic Change the Hand and Mobile Phone Hygiene Behaviors of Greek Undergraduate Students?
Authors: Delitzakis Dimitrios , Carayanni Vilelmine , Giakkoupi Panagiota , Merakou Kyriakoula
Published: February 2023

The aim of this study is to assess the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on undergraduate students’ knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors on hand and mobile phone hygiene. An anonymous self-reported questionnaire was distributed among 100 Greek male and female undergraduate students of all academic years who attended healthcare as well as non-healthcare curriculums. Descriptive statistics and statistical tests (chi-squared and Wilcoxon signed-rank test) were used (α = 5%). Students provided better responses during COVID-19, compared to the period before the COVID-19 pandemic, concerning their hand washing frequency (p < 0.001), hand washing circumstances, certain hand washing procedures, as well as their mobile phones’ cleaning/disinfection methods and frequency (p < 0.001). Statistically significant differences were observed between males and females in their knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors on hand and mobile phone hygiene, followed by faculty and year of studies. Overall, being a final-year female undergraduate student of health sciences has a positive influence on correct knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors on hand and mobile phone hygiene.
Antibacterial, Antioxidant and Physicochemical Properties of Pipper nigram Aided Copper Oxide Nanoparticles
Authors: Aien Javeria , Khan Ashfaq Ahmad , Haq Sirajul , Khan Abdul Rehman , Elmnasri Khaled , Ben Ali Manel , AL-Harbi Mohammad S. , Alghonaim Mohammed I. , Alsalamah Sulaiman A. , Qurtam Ashraf A. , Boufahja Fehmi , Hedfi Amor , Dellali Mohamed
Published: February 2023

The Pipper nigram (P. nigram) leaf extract was used for the biosynthesis of copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs) and the successful formation of the resultant product was confirmed through several physicochemical techniques. The chemical structure and the elemental composition were analysed through Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopies, respectively. The crystalline structure and crystallite size were investigated through an X-ray diffractometer (XRD) and a monoclinic crystallite with a size of 40.68 nm was reported. Even-distributed particles with an average particle size of 49.75 nm were seen in the scanning electron micrograph (SEM), whereas the thermal stability was checked during the thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The ultra-violet and visible (UV-Visible) spectroscopy was operated to study the light absorbance phenomena and to determine the band gap energy from the absorption edge, which was found to be 1.47 eV. The CuO NPs were used as antibacterial agents against gram-negative bacteria (GNB) and gram-positive bacteria (GPB), and greater inhibition zones were seen against the former one. The antioxidant test was also carried out against 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) free radicals and the antioxidant potential of CuO NPs was found to be higher than ascorbic acid.
Effect of Processing Parameters on Wear Properties of Hybrid AA1050/Al2O3/TiO2 Composites
Authors: Gao Yuanfei , Vini Mohammad Heydari , Daneshmand Saeed , Alameri Ameer A. , Benjeddou Omrane , Alfilh Raed H. C.
Published: February 2023

In this study, hybrid AA1050/Al2O3/TiO2 composites have been produced via combined liquid casting and powder metallurgy techniques. Degassing was utilized to improve the wettability of molten aluminum alloys, and then successful bonding was generated between aluminum matrix and reinforcement particles during the powder metallurgy technique. As the base matrix and reinforcements, AA1050 alloy, Al2O3 and TiO2 particles were taken, respectively. Then, content values of 5Wt.% of Al2O3 in the mesh size of 20 μm and 2.5 and 5 wt. % of TiO2 particles with mesh size of 5μm were added to the AA1050 matrix. For each composite sample, ceramic particles were warmed to 600°C in order to improve wettability and distribution. An identical scattering of subdivisions was observed through aluminum (as matrix) in the microstructural study. To measure the wear resistance, the mechanism of rotary wear test was used. The achieved results illustrated that the fabrication of hybrid composites is an ideal approach to improve the wear resistance of Al-based composites. By increasing of TiO2 Wt.% up to 5% for all composite samples, the wear rate improved to less than half of the monolithic Al alloy value for each composite sample.
Lichen and Lichenicolous Fungal Communities Tested as Suitable Systems for the Application of Cross-Taxon Analysis
Authors: De Carolis Roberto , Muggia Lucia , Bacaro Giovanni
Published: February 2023

Lichens are outstanding examples of fungal symbioses that form long-lived structures, the lichen thalli, in which a multiplicity of other microorganisms are hosted. Among these, microfungi seem to establish diverse trophic relationships with their lichen hosts. The most specialised of these fungi are the parasitic lichenicolous fungi, of which the diversity has hardly been explained as a proxy for the diversity of lichen species. Here, we used an exemplar dataset of a well-studied alpine lichen community composed of 63 lichen and 41 lichenicolous fungal species and tested it to verify the strength of the co-occurrences of the two species groups with predictive co-correspondence analyses. The results showed that the distribution of lichen abundances affects the abundance and variation of lichenicolous fungi and supports our hypothesis to use lichens as surrogates for lichenicolous fungi in surrogacy analysis.
A Comprehensive Review of Power System Stabilizers
Authors: Nocoń Adrian , Paszek Stefan
Published: February 2023

This paper presents a current literature review (from the years 2017–2022) on issues related to the application of power system stabilizers (PSSs) for damping electromechanical swings in power systems (PSs). After the initial selection of papers found in the databases used, over 600 publications were qualified for this review, of which 216 were subjected to detailed analysis. In the review, issues related to the following problems are described: applications of classic PSSs, applications of new stabilizer structures based on new algorithms (including artificial intelligence), development of new methods for tuning PSSs, and operation of PSSs in PSs with high power generation by renewable sources. Describing individual papers, the research methods used by the authors (simulations, measurement methods, and a combination of both) are specified, attention is paid to the waveforms presented in the papers, and reference is made to the types of PSs in which PSSs (large multimachine, reflecting real systems, smaller standard multimachine New-England type, and simplest single-machine) operate. The tables contain detailed comments on the selected papers. The final part of the review presents general comments on the analyzed papers and guidelines for future PS stability studies.
Dynamic Thermal Transport Characteristics of a Real-Time Simulation Model for a 50 MW Solar Power Tower Plant
Authors: Huang Haoyu , Xu Ershu , Si Lengge , Zhang Qiang , Huang Qiang
Published: February 2023

A dynamic simulation model of a heliostat field and molten salt receiver system are developed on the STAR-90 simulation platform. In addition, a real-time simulation model coupling the above two models is built to study the photothermal conversion process of Delingha’s 50 MW solar power tower plant. The nonuniform and time-varying characteristics of the energy flux density on the receiver surface and the dynamic characteristics under different operating conditions are studied. The operational process of the receiver of a typical day is simulated. It was found that there was a strong positive correlation between the energy flux and DNI, and the maximum energy flux density on the surface of the heat absorbing tube panel moved from the first tube panel to the fourth in sequence from 12:00 to 18:00. At the same time, the energy flux density of the last four panels decreased gradually along the arrangement order of the panels. DNI, molten salt mass flow rate and inlet temperature step disturbance simulations are carried out, and the response curves of the molten salt outlet temperature and tube wall temperature are obtained. The conclusion of this paper has important guiding significance for the establishment of an operational strategy for photothermal coupling in a molten salt solar power tower plant.
Dynamic Modelling and Experimental Validation of a Pneumatic Radial Piston Motor
Authors: Grimaldi Kyle , Najjaran Ahmad , Ma Zhiwei , Bao Huashan , Roskilly Tony
Published: February 2023

A pneumatic radial piston motor is studied in this paper in order to establish a dynamic modelling and simulation method. As a result of using geometric parameters, the piston cylinder volume change was calculated, and the heat transfer equation, thermodynamic energy balance equation, and motion equation were combined in order to create a complete model of the piston cylinder. With the aid of compressed air, several experimental tests were conducted, and the results of rotational speed with varying inlet pressure were fed into the simulation to determine one of the critical unknown parameters, such as the overall friction coefficient of the system. For the studied piston motor, this coefficient was 0.0625 Nm. Computer simulations can be used to adjust design parameters in order to reach a higher rotation speed by using an accurate model. As a result, better efficiency and performance present several opportunities that would not be possible when running experimental tests in a lab. The mathematical model yielded higher rotational speeds of 50 RPM on average, with an increased piston diameter of 1.775 mm; by increasing the diameter of the cylinder to 25.8 mm, it was possible to achieve faster rotational speeds. The performed precise simulation could be used for further motor design and optimisation, and performance estimates under a broader range of operational conditions. Simulations should be conducted on multiple sets of experimental test results to determine the correct foverall value for each motor. In addition to guiding the design and optimisation of the motor, simulations could also predict its performance under a broader range of operating conditions by utilising effective parameters such as geometrical characteristics, flow conditions, and motion equations.
The Business Model in Energy Sector Reporting—A Case Study from Poland: A Pilot Study
Authors: Sadowska Beata , Wójcik-Jurkiewicz Magdalena , Zimon Grzegorz , Lulek Adam , Stępnicka Nina , Walasek Robert
Published: February 2023

The business model is understood as a way of generating revenue and creating value. This article aimed to define the framework and detailed characteristics of the business model in corporate reporting in the energy sector. The study also addressed the issue of value creation and examined the correlation between reporting information about the business model and the value of the enterprise, calculated using selected accounting measures. The research was conducted in 2021 on all listed companies in the energy sector included in the WIG20 index in 2019–2020. The research methodologies included critical analysis of the literature, analysis of the content of corporate publications, comparative analysis, analysis of phenomena and synthesis of results, Spearman’s rank correlations, and graphical data presentation. The originality of our research concerns directing attention to the disclosure and reporting of information about the business model in corporate reports in the energy sector in Poland. This is the first such study in Poland conducted on companies in the energy sector; therefore, it is treated by the authors as a pilot study. The results show that companies in the energy sector included in the WIG20 index do not disclose information about their business models in reports and the structure of published reports is very diverse, which makes it even more difficult to compare financial and non-financial data. Enterprises in the energy sector disclose financial and non-financial information in financial statements and the reports of the management board on the activities of the company and the capital group. The financial information disclosed by the companies most often included financial and productive capital. Energy companies are reluctant to disclose information about by-products and waste.
Smart Mobility for Smart Cities—Electromobility Solution Analysis and Development Directions
Authors: Tundys Blanka , Wiśniewski Tomasz
Published: February 2023

Smart mobility supports smart city ideas and concepts. A consequences of smart mobility activities are more wide and common using electromobility. There is no doubt that electromobility is a global trend that unequivocally supports the principles of sustainable development, while being one of the basic elements of the smart mobility. The following discussion critically addresses the indicated topic, especially in the context of the barriers that currently exist and that stand in the way of implementing the expected expansion of electric cars into urban markets. Considering the following assumptions, the threat of urban pollution associated with the increasing number of vehicles (passenger and freight) should be mitigated using smart mobility solutions. In addition, solutions should include that electromobility promotes zero-emissions. Furthermore, the inadequate development of charging infrastructure and the projected energy crisis may result in plans to develop the electromobility market in cities that are under threat and impossible to meet. We highlight the current state and development level of the electric vehicle market, in particular the market for light commercial vehicles (LCVs). In this market, electric cars account for less than 1% of total cars. In truth, as shown in articles in recent years, the growth of new electric cars is significant; however, as shown by forecasts, the growth is insufficient to achieve the planned goals so the market share of LCVs will only increase to about 25% in 2030 and there will only be about 600,000 electric LCVs on the market. In this article, the authors focus on answering the question of if the upcoming energy crisis can significantly affect the further dynamic development of electromobility as an element of the smart city and undermine the plans to create zero-emission economies, with a particular focus on cities. Not only do we point to electromobility as a positive trend, but we stress that optimistic assumptions in its development in the current economic situation, especially in Europe, may be difficult to realize. The theoretical assumptions are reflected in the statistical analyses and forecasts of market development and their interpretation.