bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Exploratory Study of Direct Injection (DI) Diesel Engine Performance Using CNSL—Ethanol Biodiesel Blends with Hydrogen
Authors: Vadivelu Thanigaivelan , Ramanujam Lavanya , Ravi Rajesh , Vijayalakshmi Shivaprasad K. , Ezhilchandran Manoranjitham
Published: December 2022

The emissions from direct injection (DI) diesel engines remain a serious setback from the viewpoint of environmental pollution, especially for those who have been persuaded to use biofuel as an alternative fuel. The main drawbacks of using biofuels and their mixtures in DI diesel engines are increased emissions and decreased brake thermal efficiency (BTE) compared to using neat diesel fuel. The current study analyses the biodiesel made from cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL) using a single-cylinder, direct-injection diesel engine to validate the engine’s performance and discharge characteristics. In addition to the improved CNSL and a twin-fuel engine that runs on hydrogen, ethanol was added to the fuel at rates of 5%, 10%, and 15%. The investigation was conducted using a single-cylinder direct injection diesel engine at steady-state settings, above the sustained engine speed (1500 RPM). Several performance parameters and pollutant emissions, such as hydrocarbons (HC), carbon monoxide (CO), and nitrogen oxides (NOX) were tracked during this study. According to the experimental findings, the biodiesel mixture’s brake heat was reduced by 26.79% in comparison to the diesel fuel. The brake-specific fuel consumption (BSFC) declined with the addition of hydrogen to the CNSL mixture. An increase in the BTE with increasing concentrations of hydrogen in the CNSL fuel blend was observed. The best blends of ethanol and CNSL–hydrogen perceptibly increased the exhaust gas temperature and NOX emissions, while also producing the fewest HC and CO emissions. The current research acts as a novel paradigm that makes it possible to comprehend the exergy related to mass or energy exchanges as a by-product of thermodynamic quality and quantity.
An Overview of the Current Energy Situation of Pakistan and the Way Forward towards Green Energy Implementation
Authors: Khatri Shoaib Ahmed , Mirjat Nayyar Hussain , Harijan Khanji , Uqaili Mohammad Aslam , Shah Syed Feroz , Shaikh Pervez Hameed , Kumar Laveet
Published: December 2022

Pakistan has been facing energy crises for more than a decade as a result of its reliance on imported fossil fuels, circular debt, political instability, and absurd energy policies. However, the country has abundant renewable energy resources which, if harnessed, may help to effectively cope with ever-increasing energy demand. This review study investigates the country’s economic and energy situations, energy crises, and energy sector performance. A critical analysis of studies conducted on Pakistan’s energy planning since its independence in 1947 is, and policies announced to date are assessed. This review reveals that the economic situation of the country has remained severely stressed, and energy sector performance has been compromised over the years for various underlying reasons. The energy policy narrative in the early decades of the post-independence period focused on water resource management, whereas energy concerns were only realized in the late 1960s as demand grew. The first-ever energy and power planning study in Pakistan was conducted in 1967, and since then, various studies have been conducted to support the medium-term development plans of the government. These planning studies inspired further development, and in 1994, the first-ever electricity-focused power policy was announced by the government in response to industrial growth and subsequent electricity demand. However, this and subsequent policies were fossil-fuel-centric until 2006, when the government announced the first-ever renewable energy policy. This 2006 policy focused on increasing renewable energy penetration in the overall energy mix by setting specific targets. However, these targets have rarely been accomplished as a result of a lack of an effective planning paradigm, as most of studies have been conducted without sound demand forecasting and without considering renewable energy’s potential to meet growing demand. As such, planning efforts based on proven methodologies/modeling tools and the undertaking of demand forecasts and renewable energy assessments are inevitable for countries such as Pakistan. Therefore, we suggest that sectoral energy demand forecasting, estimation of renewable energy potential with end use, and modeling of optimal penetration of renewable energy using energy modeling tools will be helpful to develop sustainable energy policies in Pakistan to eradicate the energy crisis.
Constructal Evaluation of Polynomial Meta-Models for Dynamic Thermal Absorptivity Forecasting for Mixed-Mode nZEB Heritage Building Applications
Authors: Mavromatidis Lazaros
Published: December 2022

The intelligent and appropriate regulation of indoor temperatures within heritage buildings is crucial for achieving nearly Zero-Energy Building (nZEB) standards, since the technical improvement of the envelope and the overall shape of heritage buildings should be very limited in order to preserve the buildings’ authenticity. Thermal comfort is a very important factor that influences the energy performance of a building and the wellbeing of its end users. The present paper focuses on the development of a dynamic thermal human stress model that aimed to accurately predict the necessary garment insulation within a typical high-inertia heritage building. Two different statistical approaches (a Hoke D6 design and a composite factorial design) were employed for the development of this meta-model adapted to a typical mixed-mode heritage building seeking to obtain nZEB classification. Thermal human stress was modeled through the prediction of the thermal absorptivity (b) in accordance with the updated ASHRAE 55 model. Physically measured indoor climate parameters, outdoor meteorological data, and building operational information were coupled to the subjective sensorial dimensions of the problem with the aim of identifying the necessary garment insulation levels within heritage buildings composed of high-thermal-mass materials (for example, stone, concrete, and ceramic tiles). Our investigation focused on the parameter directly linked to the cold/warm sensations experienced due to clothing insulation: thermal absorptivity (b). In brief, the present paper proposes a third-order regression polynomial model that facilitates the calculation of thermal absorptivity, relying on adaptive thermal comfort concepts. The meta-model was then evaluated using Adrian Bejan’s constructal law after conducting entropy analysis. The constructal evaluation of the meta-model revealed the characteristic size of the domain regarding variable thermal absorptivity (b) and identified the necessary evolution of the model in order to increase its forecasting capacity. Thus, the model provided accurate forecasting for thermal absorptivity values greater than 50 Ws−1/2 m−2K and will be developed further to improve its absolute location accuracy for scenarios wherein the thermal absorptivity value is lower than 50 Ws−1/2 m−2K.
Comparison of C, N and P Stoichiometry in Different Organs of Fraxinus velutina
Authors: Dong Linshui , Song Aiyun , Zhang Jianfeng , Peng Ling , Cheng Nannan , Cao Banghua
Published: December 2022

Velvet ash (Fraxinus velutina Torr.) is a dioecious tree species, which is widely used as a part of urban greeneries in saline land of North China. Female and male trees have different nutrient allocation trade-offs in dioecious species. As the fruit production consumes a lot of nutrients, female F. velutina plants grow slowly and are vulnerable to insects and diseases. Ecological stoichiometry can be used to study the physiological mechanism of the growth difference between female and male plants. The purpose of this study was to compare the seasonal patterns of C, N and P stoichiometry and their trade-offs in different organs of female and male F. velutina plants planted in urban green spaces. The fruit C, N and P contents of female F. velutina plants were all lower than those of leaves in the early growing season, but higher than those of leaves in the middle and late growing season. During most months, the leaf C and P contents of females were higher than those of males, while the leaf N content was lower than that of males, which was consistent with the sex-specific resource requirements for reproduction (i.e., high carbon requirements for ovules and high nitrogen demands for pollen). Compared to the females, there were more significant correlations between the stoichiometric indices (element contents and their ratios) of branches and leaves in male plants, and this difference may be related to the fact that the male plants were not involved in nutritional allocation for fruits. The leaf N/P of F. velutina was lower than 14 in the whole growing season, which indicated N limitation. The female and male plants of F. velutina had different sex-specific resource requirements for sex organ formation.
Transcriptome Analysis Reveals the Molecular Mechanisms Associated with Flower Color Formation in Camellia japonica ‘Joy Kendrick’
Authors: Yu Suhang , Liu Weixin , Ni Sui , Li Jiyuan
Published: December 2022

Camellia japonica is a woody flower with high ornamental and economic value used for landscaping and as a pot plant. Floral colors are among the most important ornamental traits of flower plants, particularly multicolored flowers. The C. japonica cultivar ‘Joy Kendrick’ has multicolored flowers; the corolla is pink with darker red stripes, but the molecular mechanism underlying this trait is unknown. Here, pigment analysis showed that there are more anthocyanins accumulate in red petal regions than in pink areas, which may be key to formation of red stripes. Furthermore, transcriptome analysis revealed that anthocyanin biosynthesis, modification, and transporter genes are highly expressed in red stripes, consistent with the observed anthocyanin accumulation. In addition, many plant hormone signal transduction genes, particularly auxin, may contribute to the regulation of red stripe formation. This study provides broad insights into pigment accumulation and the regulatory mechanisms underlying floral color formation in C. japonica, and lays a foundation for breeding new C. japonica varieties.
Influence of Substrate on the Fermentation Characteristics and Culture-Dependent Microbial Composition of Water Kefir
Authors: Zannini Emanuele , Lynch Kieran M. , Nyhan Laura , Sahin Aylin W. , O’ Riordan Patrick , Luk Daenen , Arendt Elke K.
Published: December 2022

Water kefir is a sparkling fermented beverage produced by fermenting water kefir grains in a sucrose solution containing dried fruits or fruit extracts. The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of substrate composition on the fermentation kinetics and culture-dependent microbial composition of water kefir. First, the impact of different fruit substrates and nitrogen limitation was examined. Fermentation of different fruit-based media with a single water kefir culture demonstrated that the substrate mainly influenced the type and ratio of the organic acids produced. These organic acid profiles could be linked to the culture-dependent microbial composition. In addition, the microbial composition and the associated dominant microorganisms observed were influenced by the water kefir fermentation conditions. Investigation of the effect of nitrogen limitation on the fermentation kinetics of several water kefir cultures showed that under such conditions, the fermentative capacity of the cultures declined. However, this decline was not immediate, and specific water kefir microorganisms may have enabled some cultures to maintain a higher fermentative capacity for longer. Thus, the water kefir fermentation kinetics and characteristics could be linked to the substrate composition, microorganisms present, and the process conditions under which the fermentations were performed.
Teachers’ Views on Integrating Augmented Reality in Education: Needs, Opportunities, Challenges and Recommendations
Authors: Perifanou Maria , Economides Anastasios A. , Nikou Stavros A.
Published: December 2022

The integration of augmented reality (AR) in education is promising since it enhances teaching and offers more engaging and appealing learning experiences. Teachers can have a catalytic role towards the adoption of AR in education; therefore, their perspectives with regard to AR in teaching and learning are very important. The current study explores teachers’ views on the integration of AR in education through an open-ended questionnaire that has been answered by 93 educators worldwide. A set of digital skills that can support student-centered pedagogies in an appropriate infrastructure are the main requirement for effective teaching with AR. Among the perceived benefits and opportunities are interactive teaching and learning, increased interest and engagement, better understanding of complex concepts. As barriers, participants reported the lack of AR educational applications, the cost of buying and maintaining AR equipment and resources, the lack of teachers’ and students’ digital skills, classroom management issues, and security and ethical issues. Moreover, survey participants highlighted the need for raising teachers’ awareness for the added value of AR in education and the need for teachers’ continuous professional development. Implications and future research recommendations on the integration of AR in education are discussed.
The Emerging Technologies of Digital Payments and Associated Challenges: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Khando Khando , Islam M. Sirajul , Gao Shang
Published: December 2022

The interplay between finance and technology with the use of the internet triggered the emergence of digital payment technologies. Such technological innovation in the payment industry is the foundation for financial inclusion. However, despite the continuous progress and potential of moving the payment landscape towards digital payments and connecting the population to the ubiquitous digital environment, some critical issues need to be addressed to achieve a more harmonious inclusive and sustainable cashless society. The study aims to provide a comprehensive literature review on the emerging digital payment technologies and associated challenges. By systematically reviewing existing empirical studies, this study puts forward the state-of-the-art classification of digital payment technologies and presents four categories of digital payment technologies: card payment, e-payment,mobile payment and cryptocurrencies. Subsequently, the paper presents the key challenges in digital payment technologies categorized into broad themes: social, economic, technical, awareness and legal. The classification and categorization of payment technologies and associated challenges can be useful to both researchers and practitioners to understand, elucidate and develop a coherent digital payment strategy.
Development of a Model to Estimate the Risk of Emission of Greenhouse Gases from Forest Fires
Authors: Lerma-Arce Victoria , Yagüe-Hurtado Celia , Van den Berg Helena , García-Folgado Miguel , Oliver-Villanueva Jose-Vicente , Benhalima Yacine , Marques-Duarte Inês , Acácio Vanda , Rego Francisco , López-Senespleda Eduardo , Menéndez-Miguélez María , Ruiz-Peinado Ricardo , Petillon Thomas , Jalabert Stéphanie , Carbó-Valverde Ester , Gimeno-García Eugenia , Aleix-Amurrio Rebeca , Lorenzo-Sáez Edgar
Published: December 2022

While the Mediterranean basin is foreseen to be highly affected by climate change (CC) and severe forest fires are expected to be more frequent, international efforts to fight against CC do not consider forest fires’ greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions risk and the possibility of its mitigation. This is partly due to a lack of a methodology for GHG risk spatial assessment and consideration of the high value of carbon stocks in forest ecosystems and their intrinsic risk. To revert this, an innovative GHG emission risk model has been developed and implemented in a pilot forest area. This model considers geospatial variables to build up emission vulnerability based on potential fire severity and resistance of a landscape, value at risk and the hazard of a fire occurrence. The results classify low, moderate and high emission risks in the analysed areas. This identification of hotspots allows the prioritisation of fire prevention measures in a region to maximise the reduction of GHG emissions in the case of a fire event. This constitutes the first step in a holistic and consistent CC mitigation that not only considers anthropic GHG sources but also possible GHG emissions by forest fires that can be actively prevented, managed and reduced.
Combustion and Emission Analysis of Spent Mushroom Compost and Forestry Woodchip for Management and Energy Production
Authors: Carnevale Monica , Paris Enrico , Vincenti Beatrice , Palma Adriano , Salerno Mariangela , Guerriero Ettore , Mancini Raffaele , Calcopietro Marco , Gallucci Francesco
Published: December 2022

Forestry woodchip and spent mushroom compost have commercial potential as sustainable residues in biological and chemical processes for energy production. This study focuses on the evaluation of agri-food industry waste energy valorization, with the aim to reduce the valuable biomass utilization for energy production without decreasing the process quality, thereby pursuing economic and environmental advantages. Burning trials were conducted in a fluidized bed biomass plant provided with emission abatement systems. The biomass mixture used for combustion was composed of pine and oak woodchip and spent mushroom compost. The biomass used was first characterized through compositional and energetic analysis, and subsequently, during the burning tests, a monitoring sampling campaign was carried out to analyze the gas and particles emission. Optimal combustion conditions were observed during combustion, with good oxidation of the organic material, relatively high CO2 production, and low CO concentration in flue gas. Nevertheless, SO2 concentrations in the combustion flue gas are greater than those found in the combustion of the most commonly used biomasses. In fact, the mixture compositional characterization revealed a non-negligible concentration of sulfur, which explains the high values of SO2 detected in emission. The obtained results confirm that controlled combustion, together with suitable biomasses utilization, preliminary characterization, and emission monitoring, are essential practices for the realization of a sustainable process, both from an energy and environmental point of view.
Ontogenetic Development of Gill and Na+/K+ ATPase in the Air-Breathing Loach
Authors: Liu Yaqiu , Wang Zhijian
Published: December 2022

This study aimed to explore the gill developmental mechanism of the high mortality rate of Paramisgurnus dabryanus larvae in the early life-history process. Based on histological observations with a optical microscope, we studied the ontogeny of the gill of P. dabryanus. The result indicated that external gills first appeared 12 h after hatching. The number of external branchial filaments greatly increased at 2 d after hatching (DAH). The internal branchial filament primordial was formed in the oropharyngeal cavity at 5 DAH. At 9 DAH, none of external branchial filaments were observed outside, but the fish operculum was completed covered. From 15 DAH forward, the filaments and lamellae of gills increased in number and length prominently, and the gills of the larvae were similar to those of juvenile fish. The specific activities of Na+/K+-ATPase steadily increased from 0 to 12 DAH and peaked at 15 DAH. After 15 DAH, the specific activities of Na+/K+-ATPase slightly decreased and then tended to remain steadily stable until the end of the experiment. There were abundant gill lamellae on the gill filaments at 40 DAH. The sensitive period of the development of larval and juvenile P. dabryanus was from 6 to 15 DAH. Our results provide information that may be useful for improving our understanding of the life history and ecology of loaches.
Latest Trends in Sustainable Polymeric Food Packaging Films
Authors: Silva Edilson G. S. , Cardoso Sara , Bettencourt Ana F. , Ribeiro Isabel A. C.
Published: December 2022

Food packaging is the best way to protect food while it moves along the entire supply chain to the consumer. However, conventional food packaging poses some problems related to food wastage and excessive plastic production. Considering this, the aim of this work was to examine recent findings related to bio-based alternative food packaging films by means of conventional methodologies and additive manufacturing technologies, such as 3D printing (3D-P), with potential to replace conventional petroleum-based food packaging. Based on the findings, progress in the development of bio-based packaging films, biopolymer-based feedstocks for 3D-P, and innovative food packaging materials produced by this technology was identified. However, the lack of studies suggests that 3D-P has not been well-explored in this field. Nonetheless, it is probable that in the future this technology will be more widely employed in the food packaging field, which could lead to a reduction in plastic production as well as safer food consumption.
High β-Glucans Oats for Healthy Wheat Breads: Physicochemical Properties of Dough and Breads
Authors: Astiz Valentina , Guardianelli Luciano Martín , Salinas María Victoria , Brites Carla , Puppo María Cecilia
Published: December 2022

Bread is a highly consumed food whose nutritional value can be improved by adding an oat flour (Avena sativa L.-variety Bonaerense INTA Calen-Argentina) to a high-industrial quality wheat flour (Triticum aestivum L.). This cultivar of oat contains high amounts of β-glucans, which act as a prebiotic fiber. Wheat flour was complemented with different amounts of oat flour (5, 15, and 25%). A contribution of hydrophilic components from oat flour was evident in the oat–wheat mixtures. At the same time, the high content of total dietary fiber led to changes in the rheological properties of the dough. Mixtures with a higher proportion of oats showed an increase in alveographic tenacity (stiffer dough), higher stability, and a lower softening degree in farinographic assays. The dough showed significant increases in hardness and gumminess, without significant changes in cohesiveness, i.e., no disruption to the gluten network was observed. Relaxation tests showed that the blends with a higher oat content yielded 10 times higher stress values compared to wheat dough. Analysis of the oat–wheat breads showed improvements in nutritional parameters, with slight decreases in the volume and crust color. The crumb showed significant increases in firmness and chewing strength as the amount of oats added increased. Nutritional parameters showed that lipids, dietary fiber, and β-glucans were significantly increased by the addition of oats. Sensory analysis achieved high response rates with good-to-very good ratings on the hedonic scale set. Thus, the addition of oats did not generate rejection by the consumer and could be accepted by them. Breads with wheat and oats showed nutritional improvements with respect to wheat bread, since they have higher dietary fiber content, especially in β-glucans, so they could be considered functional breads.
Comprehensive Review of Power Electronic Converters in Electric Vehicle Applications
Authors: Islam Rejaul , Rafin S M Sajjad Hossain , Mohammed Osama A.
Published: December 2022

Emerging electric vehicle (EV) technology requires high-voltage energy storage systems, efficient electric motors, electrified power trains, and power converters. If we consider forecasts for EV demand and driving applications, this article comprehensively reviewed power converter topologies, control schemes, output power, reliability, losses, switching frequency, operations, charging systems, advantages, and disadvantages. This article is intended to help engineers and researchers forecast typical recharging/discharging durations, the lifetime of energy storage with the help of control systems and machine learning, and the performance probability of using AlGaN/GaN heterojunction-based high-electron-mobility transistors (HEMTs) in EV systems. The analysis of this extensive review paper suggests that the Vienna rectifier provides significant performance among all AC–DC rectifier converters. Moreover, the multi-device interleaved DC–DC boost converter is best suited for the DC–DC conversion stage. Among DC–AC converters, the third harmonic injected seven-level inverter is found to be one of the best in EV driving. Furthermore, the utilization of multi-level inverters can terminate the requirement of the intermediate DC–DC converter. In addition, the current status, opportunities, challenges, and applications of wireless power transfer in hybrid and all-electric vehicles were also discussed in this paper. Moreover, the adoption of wide bandgap semiconductors was considered. Because of their higher power density, breakdown voltage, and switching frequency characteristics, a light yet efficient power converter design can be achieved for EVs. Finally, the article’s intent was to provide a reference for engineers and researchers in the automobile industry for forecasting calculations.
The First Integral of the Dissipative Nonlinear Schrödinger Equation with Nucci’s Direct Method and Explicit Wave Profile Formation
Authors: Abu Bakar Muhammad , Owyed Saud , Faridi Waqas Ali , Abd El-Rahman Magda , Sallah Mohammed
Published: December 2022

The propagation of optical soliton profiles in plasma physics and atomic structures is represented by the (1+1)− dimensional Schrödinger dynamical equation, which is the subject of this study. New solitary wave profiles are discovered by using Nucci’s scheme and a new extended direct algebraic method. The new extended direct algebraic approach provides an easy and general mechanism for covering 37 solitonic wave solutions, which roughly corresponds to all soliton families, and Nucci’s direct reduction method is used to develop the first integral and the exact solution of partial differential equations. Thus, there are several new solitonic wave patterns that are obtained, including a plane solution, mixed hyperbolic solution, periodic and mixed periodic solutions, a mixed trigonometric solution, a trigonometric solution, a shock solution, a mixed shock singular solution, a mixed singular solution, a complex solitary shock solution, a singular solution, and shock wave solutions. The first integral of the considered model and the exact solution are obtained by utilizing Nucci’s scheme. We present 2-D, 3-D, and contour graphics of the results obtained to illustrate the pulse propagation characteristics while taking suitable values for the parameters involved, and we observed the influence of parameters on solitary waves. It is noticed that the wave number α and the soliton speed μ are responsible for controlling the amplitude and periodicity of the propagating wave solution.
A Second-Order Crank-Nicolson-Type Scheme for Nonlinear Space–Time Reaction–Diffusion Equations on Time-Graded Meshes
Authors: Afolabi Yusuf O. , Biala Toheeb A. , Iyiola Olaniyi S. , Khaliq Abdul Q. M. , Wade Bruce A.
Published: December 2022

A weak singularity in the solution of time-fractional differential equations can degrade the accuracy of numerical methods when employing a uniform mesh, especially with schemes involving the Caputo derivative (order α,), where time accuracy is of the order (2−α) or (1+α). To deal with this problem, we present a second-order numerical scheme for nonlinear time–space fractional reaction–diffusion equations. For spatial resolution, we employ a matrix transfer technique. Using graded meshes in time, we improve the convergence rate of the algorithm. Furthermore, some sharp error estimates that give an optimal second-order rate of convergence are presented and proven. We discuss the stability properties of the numerical scheme and elaborate on several empirical examples that corroborate our theoretical observations.
l-Lysine-Based Gelators for the Formation of Gels in Water and Alcohol–Water Mixtures
Authors: Miao Yue , Zhang Jieying , Zhang Guiju , He Shan , Xu Baocai
Published: December 2022

Nα, Nε-diacyl-l-lysine and its derivatives are excellent candidates to be used as gelators for the formation of various gels, such as hydrogels, organogels or oleogels, and ionogels. A series of alkali metal salts (Na+ and K+) of four Nα, Nε-diacyl-l-lysines (acyl including octanoyl, decanoyl, lauroyl and myristoyl) were used to study the gelation behaviors in water and alcohol–water mixtures. l-lysine-based derivatives with long-chain acyl can act as gelators to gel water and alcohol–water mixtures. In contrast, octanoyl and decanoyl derivatives cannot form gels in all solvent systems. Gelation ability, rheological behavior, and morphology vary with the molecular structure of the gelator and the nature of the solvents, as hydrophobic interaction and hydrogen bonding are responsible for the formation of gels. In general, sodium salts performed better in forming gels than their corresponding potassium salts, and myristoyl derivatives were beneficial for gel formation. Although it is challenging to form gels in t-butanol–water mixtures, the formed gels show high mechanical strength.
Walking Training Increases microRNA-126 Expression and Muscle Capillarization in Patients with Peripheral Artery Disease
Authors: da Silva Natan D. , Andrade-Lima Aluisio , Chehuen Marcel R. , Leicht Anthony S. , Brum Patricia C. , Oliveira Edilamar M. , Wolosker Nelson , Pelozin Bruno R. A. , Fernandes Tiago , Forjaz Cláudia L. M.
Published: December 2022

Patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD) have reduced muscle capillary density. Walking training (WT) is recommended for PAD patients. The goal of the study was to verify whether WT promotes angiogenesis in PAD-affected muscle and to investigate the possible role of miRNA-126 and the vascular endothelium growth factor (VEGF) angiogenic pathways on this adaptation. Thirty-two men with PAD were randomly allocated to two groups: WT (n = 16, 2 sessions/week) and control (CO, n = 16). Maximal treadmill tests and gastrocnemius biopsies were performed at baseline and after 12 weeks. Histological and molecular analyses were performed by blinded researchers. Maximal walking capacity increased by 65% with WT. WT increased the gastrocnemius capillary-fiber ratio (WT = 109 ± 13 vs. 164 ± 21 and CO = 100 ± 8 vs. 106 ± 6%, p < 0.001). Muscular expression of miRNA-126 and VEGF increased with WT (WT = 101 ± 13 vs. 130 ± 5 and CO = 100 ± 14 vs. 77 ± 20%, p < 0.001; WT = 103 ± 28 vs. 153 ± 59 and CO = 100 ± 36 vs. 84 ± 41%, p = 0.001, respectively), while expression of PI3KR2 decreased (WT = 97 ± 23 vs. 75 ± 21 and CO = 100 ± 29 vs. 105 ± 39%, p = 0.021). WT promoted angiogenesis in the muscle affected by PAD, and miRNA-126 may have a role in this adaptation by inhibiting PI3KR2, enabling the progression of the VEGF signaling pathway.
Loss of Function TGFBR2 Variant as a Contributing Factor in Generalized Pustular Psoriasis and Adult-Onset Immunodeficiency
Authors: Kantaputra Piranit , Daroontum Teerada , Chuamanochan Mati , Chaowattanapanit Suteeraporn , Intachai Worrachet , Olsen Bjorn , Sastraruji Thanapat , Tongsima Sissades , Ngamphiw Chumpol , Kampuansai Jatupol , Cox Timothy C. , Kiratikanon Salin
Published: December 2022

Background: Generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP; MIM 614204) is a rare multisystemic autoinflammatory disease, characterized by episodes of acute generalized erythema and scaling developed with the spread of numerous sterile pustules. Adult-onset immunodeficiency syndrome (AOID) with anti-interferon-γ autoantibodies is an immunodeficiency disorder associated with disruptive IFN-γ signaling. Methods: Clinical examination and whole exome sequencing (WES) were performed on 32 patients with pustular psoriasis phenotypes and 21 patients with AOID with pustular skin reaction. Histopathological and immunohistochemical studies were performed. Results: WES identified four Thai patients presenting with similar pustular phenotypes—two with a diagnosis of GPP and the other two with AOID—who were found to carry the same rare TGFBR2 frameshift mutation c.458del; p.Lys153SerfsTer35, which is predicted to result in a marked loss of functional TGFBR2 protein. The immunohistochemical studied showed overexpression of IL1B, IL6, IL17, IL23, IFNG, and KRT17, a hallmark of psoriatic skin lesions. Abnormal TGFB1 expression was observed in the pustular skin lesion of an AOID patient, suggesting disruption to TGFβ signaling is associated with the hyperproliferation of the psoriatic epidermis. Conclusions: This study implicates disruptive TGFBR2-mediated signaling, via a shared truncating variant, c.458del; p.Lys153SerfsTer35, as a “predisposing risk factor” for GPP and AOID.
Frequency of Pathogenic Germline Mutations in Early and Late Onset Familial Breast Cancer Patients Using Multi-Gene Panel Sequencing: An Egyptian Study
Authors: Nassar Auhood , Zekri Abdel-Rahman N. , Kamel Mahmoud M. , Elberry Mostafa H. , Lotfy Mai M. , Seadawy Mohamed G. , Hassan Zeinab K. , Soliman Hany K. , Lymona Ahmed M. , Youssef Amira Salah El-Din
Published: December 2022

Background: Precision oncology has been increasingly used in clinical practice and rapidly evolving in the oncology field. Thus, this study was performed to assess the frequency of germline mutations in early and late onset familial breast cancer (BC) Egyptian patients using multi-gene panel sequencing to better understand the contribution of the inherited germline mutations in BC predisposition. Moreover, to determine the actionable deleterious mutations associated with familial BC that might be used as biomarker for early cancer detection. Methods: Whole blood samples were collected from 101 Egyptian patients selected for BC family history, in addition to 50 age-matched healthy controls. A QIAseq targeted DNA panel (human BC panel) was used to assess the frequency of germline mutations. Results: A total of 58 patients (57.4%) out of 101 were found to have 27 deleterious germline mutations in 11 cancer susceptibility genes. Of them, 32 (31.6%) patients carried more than one pathogenic mutation and each one carried at least one pathogenic mutation. The major genes harboring the pathogenic mutations were: ATM, BRCA2, BRCA1, VHL, MSH6, APC, CHEK2, MSH2, MEN1, PALB2, and MUTYH. Thirty-one patients (30.6%) had BRCA2 mutations and twenty (19.8%) had BRCA1 mutations. Our results showed that exon 10 and exon 11 harbored 3 and 5 mutations, respectively, in BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. Our analysis also revealed that the VHL gene significantly co-occurred with each of the BRCA2 gene (p = 0.003, event ratio 11/21), the MSH2 gene (p = 0.01, 4/10), the CHEK2 gene (p = 0.02, 4/11), and the MSH6 gene (p = 0.04, 4/12). In addition, the APC gene significantly co-occurred with the MSH2 gene (p = 0.01, 3/7). Furthermore, there was a significant mutually exclusive event between the APC gene and the ATM gene (p = 0.04, 1/36). Interestingly, we identified population specific germline mutations in genes showing potentials for targeted therapy to meet the need for incorporating precision oncology into clinical practice. For example, the mutations identified in the ATM, APC, and MSH2 genes. Conclusions: Multi-gene panel sequencing was used to detect the deleterious mutations associated with familial BC, which in turns mitigate the essential need for implementing next generation sequencing technologies in precision oncology to identify cancer predisposing genes. Moreover, identifying DNA repair gene mutations, with focus on non-BRCA genes, might serve as candidates for targeted therapy and will be increasingly used in precision oncology.
A De Novo Missense Variant in TUBG2 in a Child with Global Developmental Delay, Microcephaly, Refractory Epilepsy and Perisylvian Polymicrogyria
Authors: Thulasirajah Salini , Wang Xueqi , Sell Erick , Dávila Jorge , Dyment David A. , Kernohan Kristin D.
Published: December 2022

Polymicrogyria is a brain malformation characterized by excessive folding of the cortex. To date, numerous causes of polymicrogyria have been identified, including variants in the genes associated with tubulinopathies. Herein, we present a child with severe intellectual disability, refractory to treatment seizures, microcephaly and MRI findings consistent with polymicrogyria, closed-lip schizencephaly, periventricular heterotopia and a dysplastic corpus callosum. Exome sequencing identified a de novo missense variant in TUBG2, a gene not associated with human disease. The variant, NM_016437.3 c.747G>A p.(Met249Ile), is absent from available control databases and is predicated to be deleterious by in silico prediction programs. Laboratory studies show that cultured lymphoblasts derived from the patient grew significantly faster than controls. Recombinant protein was expressed (recombinant wild type and mutant TUBG2-FLAG) in 293T cells and lower levels of TUBG2 mutant compared with controls were observed. Furthermore, co-immuno-precipitation in cells transfected demonstrated that the TUBG2–GCP2 interaction is increased due to the MUT recombinant protein versus WT recombinant protein. In closing, this work provides preliminary evidence that TUBG2 may represent a novel disease gene responsible for polymicrogyria.
The Role of PARP1 and PAR in ATP-Independent Nucleosome Reorganisation during the DNA Damage Response
Authors: Belousova Ekaterina A. , Lavrik Olga I.
Published: December 2022

The functioning of the eukaryotic cell genome is mediated by sophisticated protein-nucleic-acid complexes, whose minimal structural unit is the nucleosome. After the damage to genomic DNA, repair proteins need to gain access directly to the lesion; therefore, the initiation of the DNA damage response inevitably leads to local chromatin reorganisation. This review focuses on the possible involvement of PARP1, as well as proteins acting nucleosome compaction, linker histone H1 and non-histone chromatin protein HMGB1. The polymer of ADP-ribose is considered the main regulator during the development of the DNA damage response and in the course of assembly of the correct repair complex.
Multicriteria Decision Method for Siting Wind and Solar Power Plants in Central North Namibia
Authors: Kamati Klaudia , Smit Julian , Hull Simon
Published: December 2022

We demonstrate the application of geomatics tools (remote sensing and geographic information systems) for spatial data analysis to determine potential locations for wind and solar photovoltaic (PV) energy plants in the Central North region of Namibia. In accordance with sustainable development goal 7 (affordable and clean energy) and goal 13 (climate action), the Namibian government has committed to reducing reliance on fossil fuels. In support of this, suitable locations for renewable energy plants need to be identified. Using multi-criteria decision-making and the analytical hierarchy process, sites were selected considering topographical, economic, climatic, and environmental factors. It was found that the highest potential for solar PV energy plants is in the northwest, southwest, and southern regions of the study area, whereas only the northwest region is highly suitable for wind power plants. These results were substantiated by comparison with global suitability maps, with some differences due to the datasets used. The findings can be used as a guide by governments, commercial investors, and other stakeholders to determine prospective sites for the development of renewable energy in Central North Namibia.
Factors Influencing Food Safety Education Practices among Obstetricians
Authors: Alyousef Hala Ayman , Cao Xiyu , Yang Nianhong
Published: December 2022

Healthcare providers (HCPs) are responsible for educating pregnant women about food safety issues in to prevent infectious diseases; however, few HCPs provide their pregnant women with such information. This study aimed to identify food safety education practices, attitudes and barriers among obstetricians and determine the factors affecting education practices. In this cross-sectional study, 238 obstetricians completed a self-administered questionnaire. Medians with interquartile ranges, frequency, crosstabs test, Mann–Whitney U test, Kruska–Wallis H test, Dunn–Bonferroni post hoc method, and multiple regression were used for data analysis. The study found that obstetricians provide pregnant women with a low amount of food safety information (2.5 ± 0.42, and the top three barriers reported were lack of time (Mdn = 3, IQR = 1), lack of knowledge (Mdn = 3, IQR = 2), and heavy workload (Mdn = 3, IQR = 2). Furthermore, only a few obstetricians were interested in taking food safety education courses (30.2%) and exploring pregnant women’s education needs (39.5%). Factors influencing education practices were total experience, lack of knowledge, and lack of time. Obstetricians should be more aware of the need to educate pregnant women about food safety issues. Understanding the influencing factors determined in this study will contribute to the development of an effective education plan to reinforce doctors’ food safety education competency.
Amlodipine Overdose: Is High Dose Insulin Ready for Prime Time
Authors: Farmer Mary Jo S. , Contractor Anisha , Allgaier Joshua
Published: December 2022

Overdose of amlodipine, a dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker (CCB), is distinguished from other CCBs due to longer plasma half-life of 30 to 58 h. As current management strategies of CCB overdose are diverse and institution dependent, this retrospective observational study aimed to compare treatment and outcomes data extracted from published case reports of amlodipine overdose with a cohort of patients diagnosed with amlodipine overdose at an urban tertiary medical center. Particular attention was paid to the use of high dose insulin euglycemic therapy (HIET) in treatment of amlodipine overdose. Data was extracted from actual adult patients hospitalized for amlodipine overdose at an urban tertiary medical center up to 2018, and from case reports of amlodipine overdose published between 1997 and 2020. We found a tendency towards earlier and more frequent initiation of HIET over time in management of amlodipine overdose, facilitating hospital discharge. Given the lack of randomized controlled trials comparing vasopressors, HIET, or other therapies, optimal treatment for amlodipine overdose has yet to be definitively established. Based on currently available evidence, a reasonable approach to management of the hemodynamically unstable patient presenting with amlodipine overdose includes vasopressors and inotropes with earlier initiation of HIET.
The Clinical Characteristics of Immunoglobulin Light Chain Amyloidosis in the Chinese Population: A Systematic Scoping Review
Authors: Fu Chengcheng , Wang Xiaohong , Cao Xian , Xu Lingjie , Liu Wang , Pi Jingnan , Wang Bin , Chen Wenming
Published: December 2022

Immunoglobulin light chain (AL) amyloidosis is the most common type of systemic amyloidosis in China and is associated with increased morbidity and a poor prognosis. However, the clinical characteristics of Chinese patients with AL amyloidosis have not been systematically investigated. This scoping review aimed to summarize the available literature regarding the clinical characteristics of patients with AL amyloidosis and identify potential knowledge gaps. We searched three electronic databases from inception to 7 February 2021. PICOS (Patient, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome and Study) design structure was used to formulate the data extraction. All statistical calculations and analyses were performed with R (version 3.6.0). Sixty-seven articles with 5022 patients were included. Results suggest Chinese patients were younger (57 years) at the time of diagnosis when compared with other patient populations and were predominantly male (61.2%). The time interval from the onset of symptoms to diagnosis was between 6 and 12 months. It was found that 41.1% of Chinese patients with AL amyloidosis were diagnosed with an advanced stage III disease when diagnosed, and 20.2% had a concurrent disease. The most involved organs were the kidneys (84.3%) and the heart (62.5%). In conclusion, our study shows some similarities and differences with other studies on the clinical characteristics of Chinese patients with AL amyloidosis, including the age at diagnosis, Mayo stage, and organ involvement. However, a nationwide epidemiological investigation is still needed to provide a comprehensive overview of this patient population in China.
Rediscovering the Intangible Heritage of Past Performative Spaces: Interaction between Acoustics, Performance, and Architecture
Authors: Bellia Angela , Bevilacqua Antonella
Published: December 2022

The relationship between the shape and social use of Greek and Roman theatres has always been overshadowed by the technical and acoustic analyses of these performance spaces. Relevant ruins illustrate the relationship between performance typology, acoustics, and construction development of ancient theatres, which were mainly determined by the requirements of artistic venues. The music in tragedies and comedies, the dances, and the public speeches performed in the same places helped to shape the constructions according to the requirements of the events. In addition to the need to satisfy social and political interactions, the functions of musical performances and public speeches in theatres were maintained across generations so that they organically coexisted in both Greek and Roman times. This paper presents new insights into the relationships between sound and architecture, focusing on the case study of the Greek–Roman theatre of Katane and its evolution through the centuries. Architectural features have been described in terms of the social functions of the theatre rather than as mere results of geometric rules. A brief comparison with the neighboring odeion of Katane and other Greek–Roman theatres has been made regarding destination use.
Zooarchaeology of the Late Bronze Age Fortified Settlements in Lithuania
Authors: Micelicaitė Viktorija , Piličiauskienė Giedrė , Podėnas Vytenis , Minkevičius Karolis , Damušytė Aldona
Published: December 2022

The economic model of the Lithuanian Late Bronze Age (1100–500 cal BC) has long been based on zooarchaeological collections from unstratified, multi-period settlements, which have provided an unreliable understanding of animal husbandry and the role of fishing and hunting. The opportunity to re-evaluate the previously proposed dietary and subsistence patterns arose after zooarcheological assemblages of Garniai 1 and Mineikiškės fortified settlements, dating only to the Late Bronze Age, were collected in 2016–2017 and 2020–2021. The new analysis revealed that the communities in these sites were mainly engaged in animal husbandry of small ungulates such as pigs, sheep/goats, which differed from western Lithuania and the rest of the Eastern Baltic. Moreover, it has been observed that hunting and fishing significantly declined after the Early Bronze Age (1700–1100 cal BC). Lastly, unusual traits for the Baltic region were identified including exceptionally highly fragmented bones and the consumption of molluscs, which could be attributed to the exploration of additional food sources in times of deprivation.