bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nonprehensile Manipulation for Rapid Object Spinning via Multisensory Learning from Demonstration
Authors: Shin Ku Jin , Jeon Soo
Published: January 2024

Dexterous manipulation concerns the control of a robot hand to manipulate an object in a desired manner. While classical dexterous manipulation strategies are based on stable grasping (or force closure), many human-like manipulation tasks do not maintain grasp stability and often utilize the dynamics of the object rather than the closed form of kinematic relation between the object and the robotic hand. Such manipulation strategies are referred as nonprehensile or dynamic dexterous manipulation in the literature. Nonprehensile manipulation often involves fast and agile movements such as throwing and flipping. Due to the complexity of such motions and uncertainties associated with them, it has been challenging to realize nonprehensile manipulation tasks in a reliable way. In this paper, we propose a new control strategy to realize practical nonprehensile manipulation. First, we make explicit use of multiple modalities of sensory data for the design of control law. Specifically, force data are employed for feedforward control, while position data are used for feedback control. Secondly, control signals (both feedback and feedforward) are obtained through multisensory learning from demonstration (LfD) experiments designed and performed for specific nonprehensile manipulation tasks of concern. To prove the concept of the proposed control strategy, experimental tests were conducted for a dynamic spinning task using a sensory-rich, two-finger robotic hand. The control performance (i.e., the speed and accuracy of the spinning task) was also compared with that of classical dexterous manipulation based on force closure and finger gaiting.
Prediction of Plate Height Curves of Porous-Shell Pillar Array Columns Micro-Pillar Array Columns
Authors: Venditti Claudia , Desmet Gert , Adrover Alessandra
Published: January 2024

We investigate band broadening in the most widely adopted configuration of micro-pillar array columns (μPACs)—specifically, a cylindrical pillar array where both the pillar walls and the channel bottom are coated with a thin layer of mesoporous material. The two-zone moment analysis method is adopted to investigate the dispersion properties of μPACs in a broad range of shell thicknesses, reduced fluid velocities, and retention factors. Three different models of the unit cell, of increasing complexity, have been implemented, namely a two-dimensional model and two different three-dimensional models with and without the retentive bottom layer, the presence of which seems to have a very significant effect on the plate height curves. Model predictions are compared with experimental van Deemter curves for uncoated and coated porous layers, and a robust relationship between the intra-particle (porous-zone) diffusion coefficient Dpz and the retention factor k′ is established.
‘Whose Place of Speech?’ Brazil’s Afro- and Queer-Centric YouTube Channels and the Decentralization of TV Globo’s Telenovela Discourse
Authors: Castro McGowan Regina
Published: January 2024

For several decades, Brazil’s Grupo Globo, which controls radio, TV, and newspaper, served as the hegemonic voice controlling the audio, visual, and narrative dimensions of social phenomena that formed and informed social, political, and cultural attitudes among Brazilians. Of all their divisions, none has been more influential than the TV Globo network. Lately, with the popularization of free access to digital media, such as those offered by YouTube, TV Globo’s viewership has substantially declined. This paper discusses the concept of controlling images to analyze examples of TV Globo’s constructed visual image of the hypersexualized Afro-Brazilian female body in the network’s soap operas. It also analyzes cases of TV Globo’s constructed narrative over another subaltern Brazilian group: the LGBTQIA+ community. Recently, Afro-Brazilian and Queer-centric YouTube channels have attracted subscribers by emphasizing content centered on negritude, gender politics, and place of speech while deconstructing and de-normalizing Eurocentric and patriarchal controlling images. Against examples of TV Globo’s normative discourse of the past decades, the YouTube channels discussed in this paper represent alternative mediums for agency, visibility, and unbiased representations of gender and racial identities in Brazil.
Measurements of Electromagnetic Radiation Propagation through Biomaterial Samples Based on Harvest Residues
Authors: Rupčić Slavko , Mandrić Vanja , Kovačić Đurđica , Varga Maja
Published: January 2024

The aim of this research was to determine the efficiency of electromagnetic (EM) radiation absorbers based on biomaterials from harvest residues (soybean straw, wheat straw, and clover straw) for the additional protection and/or construction of residential buildings. To determine their protective properties, the transmission parameter S21 was measured through harvest residues in the frequency range from 300 MHz to 5 GHz. Important parameters of the tested samples included sample type, sample thickness, and humidity. The measurement results showed that the transmission parameters decreased with an increase in the sample thickness, moisture, and frequency. Regarding this type of substrate, soybean straw showed the lowest values of parameter S21 for all measurements except for the case of the highest amount of moisture (34.48%), for which clover straw showed the lowest value of the transmission parameter. The greatest reduction in the S21 transmission parameter was 43.80 dB for a soybean sample of 300 mm thickness at a frequency of 4.93 GHz. These tests were performed on samples that were not additionally structured (additives, pressing, additional shredding, etc.), so it was possible to optimize their structure and conduct further research.
Promoting Sustainable Consumption: The Roles of Consumers’ Domain-Specific Environmental Knowledge and Personality Traits
Authors: Zeng Lian , Moore Marguerite , Rothenberg Lori
Published: January 2024

Environmental sustainability, a pivotal facet of sustainable development, is explicitly emphasized and advocated. The textile and apparel (T&A) industry, which is resource-intensive, faces challenges in transitioning toward an ecologically friendly market. The shift toward sustainability is causing significant changes in consumer lifestyles and cultural practices, resulting in increased uncertainty in pro-environmental behaviors. This study adapts the environmentally responsible behavior (ERB) model to investigate how consumers’ subjective and objective domain-specific environmental knowledge (SUEK and OBEK) and personality traits—including personal environmental responsibility (PER), eco-centric and anthropocentric environmental beliefs (EEBs and AEBs), and internal and external environmental loci of control (IN-ELOC and EX-ELOC)—influence sustainable consumption intention (SCI) for T&A products. The data from 212 completed online survey questionnaires were analyzed using a two-stage partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) approach. The findings reveal that participants’ SUEK related to the T&A industry, and their PER and EEBs positively influence their SCI for T&A products. This research contributes to the literature on consumer SCI in the T&A industry and adds value to the existing ERB model, providing insights for brands, retailers, educators, policymakers, and stakeholders striving for a more sustainable industry.
Digitalization Risks in the Bioeconomy: An Enterprise-Level Perspective
Authors: Zeverte-Rivza Sandija , Brence Ieva , Gudele Ina , Rivza Baiba , Rivza Peteris
Published: January 2024

The swift adoption of digitalization and transformation within enterprises and their operations had commenced prior to the onset of COVID-19, characterized by the shift towards Industry 4.0 and subsequently progressing towards Industry 5.0. However, mandated restrictions significantly amplified the necessity and drive to utilize digital tools for both businesses and consumers. New opportunities previously not utilized have arisen yet are hand in hand with several risks linked to the use of these new digital tools. The bioeconomy sector is not an exception. The study aims to consider the sector representatives’ opinions on the significance of the risks related to digitalization. The empirical results of this study stem from a survey of enterprises in the bioeconomy sector carried out in 2020 and 2021 in Latvia. The research results prove that there are many factors influencing the development of digitalization. The results notably affirm that both entrepreneurs and employees in SMEs recognize the considerable importance of these risks, particularly emphasizing the significance of security and technology risks. While the Chi-Square Test of Independence indicates a notable association between risk evaluation scores and the education level of respondents before the COVID-19 outbreak in 2020, this association diminishes in 2021. Contrary to the hypothesis that individuals with higher education levels are more attentive to risks, the evidence shows inconsistency in their perception, particularly regarding professional challenges of the entrepreneur and employees to use digital tools and other risk categories. However, the relationship between higher education levels and the significance of risks pertaining to security risks, technology risks, and the skills of the clients to use digital tools is partly affirmed.
Adaptive Virtual Impedance Control with MPC’s Cost Function for DG Inverters in a Microgrid with Mismatched Feeder Impedances for Future Energy Communities
Authors: Khan Mubashir Hayat , Zulkifli Shamsul Aizam , Tutkun Nedim , Burgio Alessandro
Published: January 2024

More and more distributed generations (DGs), such as wind, PV or battery bank sources, are connected to electric systems or customer loads. However, the locations of these DGs are based on the highest energy that can be potentially harvested for electric power generation. Therefore, these locations create different line impedances based on the distance from the DGs to the loads or the point of common coupling (PCC). This paper presents an adaptive virtual impedance (AVI) in the predictive control scheme in order to ensure power sharing accuracy and voltage stability at the PCC in a microgrid network. The reference voltage from mismatched feeder impedances was modified by utilizing the suggested AVI-based predictive control for creating equal power sharing between the DGs in order to avoid overburdening any individual DG with low-rated power. The AVI strategy used droop control as the input control for generating equal power sharing, while the AVI output was used as the reference voltage for the finite control set–model predictive control (FCS-MPC) for creating a minimum voltage error deviation for the cost function (CF) for the inverter’s vector switching pattern in order to improve voltage stability at the PCC. The proposed AVI-based controller was tested using two DG inverter circuits in a decentralized control mode with different values of line impedance and rated power. The performance of the suggested controller was compared via MATLAB/Simulink with that of a controller based on static virtual impedance (SVI) in terms of efficiency of power sharing and voltage stability at the PCC. From the results, it was found that (1) the voltage transient magnitude for the AVI-based controller was reduced within less than 0.02 s, and the voltage at the PCC was maintained with about 0.9% error which is the least as compared with those for the SVI-based controller and (2) equal power sharing between the DGs increased during the change in the load demand when using the AVI-based controller as compared with using the SVI-based controller. The proposed controller was capable of giving more accurate power sharing between the DGs, as well as maintaining the voltage at the PCC, which makes it suitable for the power generation of consumer loads based on DG locations for future energy communities.
Decommissioning and Recycling of End-of-Life Photovoltaic Solar Panels in Western Australia
Authors: Shrestha Niresh , Zaman Atiq
Published: January 2024

Academics predict that a significant volume of end-of-life (EOL) photovoltaic (PV) solar panel waste will be generated in the coming years due to the significant rise in the production and use of PV solar panels since the late 20th Century. This study focuses on identifying a sustainable solution for the management of EOL PV solar panel waste by triangulating the information collected on areas such as the current state, the key barriers, and the key enablers with respect to managing EOL PV solar panel waste, specifically in Western Australia (WA). The data were collected using online survey questions and interviews with users of PV solar panels, sellers of PV solar panels, recyclers of PV solar panels, and local governments in Western Australia. Findings reveal that although there is a low generation of PV solar panel waste at present, it is concerning that WA lacks systems and infrastructure to manage this waste. Introducing and implementing an Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) policy, banning EOL PV solar panels from landfills, and, finally, increasing financial investment in this study area through grants, subsidies, and loans could be a sustainable solution for the management of EOL PV solar panel waste in WA.
How Pollution and Climate Change Affect the Future of Mangrove Forest—A Simulation Study on the Mangrove Area in the Thi Vai Catchment, Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Anh
Published: January 2024

Environmental pollution and climate change have been reported to severely affect the growth and productivity of mangroves. However, it is still unclear how the mangroves will fare if stressed by these adverse conditions, and how the mangroves might fare if these conditions improve. In this study, the trends of mangrove forests in the Thi Vai catchment (Vietnam) were assessed using mathematical models, addressing the polluted environment under climate change conditions. This simulated study was conducted based on the analysis of different types of data. Data on 18 elements’ concentrations accumulated in mangrove tissues in this catchment were analyzed in relation to the states of tree growth rates. Data on the economic productivity and water quality of the Thi Vai River in the five years from 2017 to 2021 were analyzed to detect the main sources of pollution that induced damage to mangrove forests. The results achieved from data analysis are the linear and nonlinear interactions between the concentrations of tissue-accumulated substances and the growth rates of trees. Concentrations of P, Mg, and Sr in mangrove leaves have a linear relationship with plant growth while Cr, Cu, and Ni accumulated in roots have a nonlinear relationship. The mining industry and accommodation and food services are the main contributing sources of Cr and Cu, which affect mangrove health. Information supplied from the data analysis helped in designing the scenarios of different combined environmental conditions for model simulations. Our previously developed mangrove dynamics model was applied to predict the trajectory of the mangrove forest in this area under a total of 16 combined environmental condition scenarios.
Drought Resistance of Desert Riparian Forests: Vegetation Growth Index and Leaf Physiological Index Approach
Authors: Aili Aishajiang , Xu Hailiang , Waheed Abdul , Lin Tao , Zhao Wanyu , Zhao Xinfeng
Published: January 2024

The Hotan River, the sole river traversing the Taklimakan Desert in northwest China, sustains a critical desert riparian ecosystem dominated by Populus euphratica. This riparian habitat is integral to biodiversity maintenance. However, global climate change and anthropogenic disturbances have profoundly impacted the Taklimakan desert landscape, leading to fragmentation and reduced environmental heterogeneity. Consequently, there has been a notable decline in P. euphratica populations. This study aimed to assess the physiological resilience of P. euphratica under harsh conditions and analyze the vegetation distribution patterns along the desert riparian zone. Laboratory tests were employed to determine the physiological indexes including Relative Water Content (RWC), Chlorophyll (Chl), Soluble Sugar (SS), Free Proline (Pro), and Peroxidase Activity (POD) of P. euphratica, providing insights into its capacity to endure challenging environmental conditions. Quadrat surveys were conducted at varying distances from the riverbed to examine vegetation distribution patterns. Plant growth indexes were analyzed to unveil the resistance of the desert riparian forest to drought. The study identified 45 shrubs and herbs belonging to 17 families in the Hotan River understory, with P. euphratica exhibiting the highest abundance. In river flats, annual herbs dominated due to favorable water conditions, while shrub grasslands displayed a relatively complete community structure with trees, crowns, and grasses. As the distance increased from the river channel, more perennial herb and shrub species prevailed, leading to a decline in overall species richness as annual herbs diminished. Physiological assessments revealed that P. euphratica in a medium growth grade (VS3) exhibited the highest physiological indexes, indicating its adaptability to environmental changes. The findings underscore the significance of water conditions in the growth and development of vegetation in desert riparian forests, particularly highlighted by the physiological indexes of P. euphratica. This research contributes valuable insights that can inform the preservation and restoration of desert riparian forests, providing a scientific basis and technical guidance for conservation efforts.
Strengthening the Resilience and Perseverance of Rural Accommodation Enterprises in the Iberian Depopulated Areas through Enterprise Architecture
Authors: Anes Silveira Rodolfo , Mamede Henrique São
Published: January 2024

The research objective of this work is to develop and evaluate an enterprise architecture for rural accommodation in the Iberian Peninsula that responds to the demand of the remote labor market. Through an extensive literature review and the application of ArchiMate modeling, this study focuses on providing an enterprise architecture that promotes business resilience and environmental sustainability and boosts the local economy. The proposed enterprise architecture is remotely evaluated by experts, highlighting potential benefits, challenges, and areas for improvement. The results show that the proposed enterprise architecture has the potential to improve the long-term success of rural lodging businesses, enhance the customer experience, promote sustainability, and contribute to economic growth in rural areas through value exchange among stakeholders. The ArchiMate model provides a holistic perspective on stakeholder interactions and interoperability across all functional business areas: Customer Service, Product Management, Omnichannel Commerce, Human Resources, Business Strategy, Marketing, and Sustainability Management. The idea is to empower rural lodging businesses to create a better customer experience, achieve energy and environmental efficiency, contribute to local development, respond quickly to regulatory changes and compliance, and develop new revenue streams. The main goal is to improve offers, mitigate seasonal effects, and reverse the continuous cycle of decline in areas with low population density. Therefore, this ArchiMate modeling can be the initial basis for the digitization or expansion of the rural lodging industry in other geographies.
Long-Term Projection of Transport-Related Social Cost of Greenhouse Gas Emissions in Qatar
Authors: Al-Jabir Maryam , Isaifan Rima J.
Published: January 2024

The transportation sector has garnered significant attention recently due to its substantial impact on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, which have contributed to global warming and adversely impacted human health and the environment. This study estimates the social cost of carbon (SCC) in Qatar pertaining to road transportation, explicitly focusing on the greenhouse gases (GHGs) of carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide for the years 2030, 2040, and 2050. The Low Emissions Analysis Platform (LEAP) was utilized to formulate various scenarios: (1) a public transport scenario in comparison to the baseline scenario; (2) a scenario with improved fuel economy in comparison to the baseline scenario; and (3) a scenario with improved fuel economy in comparison to the public transport scenario. Once the scenarios were developed, the emission reduction values were derived. Subsequently, the Social Cost of Carbon Explorer tool was employed to assess the SCC for each gas. According to the study findings, when comparing the public transport scenario with the baseline scenario, it was observed that the total SCC benefit in 2030, 2040, and 2050 would amount to USD 380,005,861. Furthermore, when comparing the scenario in which fuel economy is improved to the baseline scenario, the total SCC benefit would amount to USD 3,363,559. In conclusion, upon comparing the scenario of improved fuel economy with that of public transportation, it is determined that the total SCC benefit would amount to USD 5,980,883. The calculation of the SCC is expected to provide valuable insights for decision making pertaining to the economic implications of different strategies to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions in Qatar.
Mapping GENERIC Hydrodynamics into Carter’s Multifluid Theory
Authors: Gavassino Lorenzo
Published: January 2024

We show that the GENERIC model for relativistic heat conduction is a multifluid of Carter; this allows one to compute the multifluid constitutive relations directly from the GENERIC formalism. As a quick application, we prove that in the limit of infinite heat conductivity, GENERIC heat conduction reduces to the relativistic two-fluid model for superfluidity. This surprising “crossover” is a consequence of relativistic causality: if diffusion happens too fast, all the diffusing charge cumulates on the surface of the light cone, and it eventually travels at the speed of light like a wave. Our analysis is non-perturbative and carried out in a fully non-linear regime.
Autonomous Data Association and Intelligent Information Discovery Based on Multimodal Fusion Technology
Authors: Wang Wei , Li Jingwen , Jiang Jianwu , Wang Bo , Wang Qingyang , Gao Ertao , Yue Tao
Published: January 2024

The effective association of multimodal data is the basis of massive multi-source heterogeneous data sharing in the era of big data. How to realize data autonomous association between massive multimodal databases and the automatic intelligent screening of valuable information from associated data, so as to provide a reliable data source for artificial intelligence (AI), is an urgent problem to be solved. In this paper, a data autonomous association method based on the organizational structure of data cells is proposed, including transaction abstraction based on information nucleuses, symmetric and asymmetric data association based on strategies and data pipes, and information generation based on big data. To screen meaningful data associations, an information-driven intelligent information discovery method and a task-driven intelligent information discovery method are proposed. The former screens meaningful data associations by training the reward and punishment model to simulate the manual scoring of data associations. The latter is task-oriented and screens meaningful data associations by training the reward and punishment model to simulate the manual ranking of data associations related to the task requests. Through the above work, autonomous data association and intelligent information discovery are effectively realized based on multimodal fusion technology, which provides a novel data source mining approach using multimodal data sharing and intelligent information discovery.
Microgrid Operation Optimization Method Considering Power-to-Gas Equipment: An Improved Gazelle Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Wu Dingshan , Wu Lin , Wen Tianyu , Li Lingling
Published: January 2024

With the increasingly prominent defects of traditional fossil energy, large-scale renewable energy access to power grids has become a trend. In this study, a microgrid operation optimization method, including power-to-gas equipment and a hybrid energy storage system, is proposed. Firstly, this study constructs a microgrid system structure including P2G equipment and a hybrid energy storage system of electricity and hydrogen. Secondly, aiming at minimizing the system operation cost and carbon emission penalty cost, a low-carbon economic operation optimization model of the proposed microgrid is established. Then, this study proposes a microgrid optimization method based on an improved gazelle optimization algorithm to symmetrically improve economic and environmental performance. Finally, the practicability and superiority of the above model and optimization method are verified using a real microgrid case. The results show that considering the participation of P2G equipment and a hybrid energy storage system in the optimal operation, the carbon emission of the microgrid is reduced to 33.56% of the microgrid considering only a single electric energy storage system, and the comprehensive operation cost is reduced by 6.54%. This study is conducive to promoting the development of clean energy and symmetrically enhancing the economic and environmental performance of the microgrid.
Combining Theory-Driven Realist Approach and Systems Thinking to Unpack Complexity of Type 2 Diabetes and Hypertension Management in Low and Middle-Income Countries: Protocol for a Realist Review
Authors: Ehteshami Fatemeh , Cassidy Rachel , Tediosi Fabrizio , Fink Günther , Cobos Muñoz Daniel
Published: January 2024

The burden of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and hypertension (HTN) has increased worldwide in recent decades, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). In these countries, health systems often struggle to provide effective health care services for the management of chronic conditions. We have developed a study protocol with the aim of conducting a realist review to delve into the complexities behind the management of T2DM and HTN in LMICs. First, we have developed a causal loop diagram (CLD) serving as the initial program theory to represent the health system drivers associated with the effective (or ineffective) management of T2DM and HTN. Next, we will search, select, appraise, extract and analyze the relevant evidence. This evidence will be used to refine and extend the initial program theory to transform it into a middle-range program theory. This will then be verified through Group Model Building (GMB) sessions. The evidence will be summarized applying RAMESES (Realist And MEta-narrative Evidence Syntheses: Evolving Standards). In combining a systems thinking approach with a realist approach to program evaluation, we aim to unravel the mechanisms that govern the management of T2DM and HTN, and the relation between health system-related factors, which lead to outcomes, in different contexts.
Mathematical Modeling Approach to the Optimization of Biomass Storage Park Management
Authors: Nunes Leonel J. R.
Published: January 2024

This paper addresses the critical issue of managing biomass parks, a key component in the shift towards sustainable energy sources. The research problem centers on optimizing the management of these parks to enhance production and economic viability. Our aim was to bridge the gap in current research by developing and applying mathematical models tailored for biomass park management. The study commenced by constructing a basic model based on assumptions such as uniform biomass and steady input rates. Progressing from this initial model, we explored sophisticated control strategies, including Pontryagin’s maximum principle and dynamic programming, and employed numerical methods to tackle the nonlinearities and complexities inherent in biomass management. Our approach’s scope extended to predicting and managing biomass flow, highlighting each method’s distinct advantages. The simple model laid the groundwork for understanding, while optimal control techniques revealed the system’s intricate dynamics. The numerical methods provided practical solutions to complex equations. We found that while each method is beneficial on its own, their combined use can significantly improve decision-making in biomass park management. This research emphasizes the importance of aligning the chosen method with specific operational challenges and desired outcomes for optimal efficacy, offering both theoretical insights and practical applications in the field of renewable energy management.
In Vitro and In Silico Analysis of the Bindings between Legacy and Novel Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances and Human Serum Albumin
Authors: Wu Yuqing , Bao Jia , Liu Yang , Wang Xin , Lu Xinyi , Wang Ke
Published: January 2024

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are emerging contaminants of concern that can enter the human body through a variety of pathways and thereby cause harmful effects. Exposure of pregnant women to PFASs could even affect both the mother and the child. Human serum albumin (HSA) is considered to be the primary transport protein for a variety of substances in body fluids. It can be bound to different contaminants and might result in possible effects on human health. Yet, few studies are available on the binding affinity of legacy PFASs and their novel alternatives to HSA. In this study, the binding mechanisms of HSA to both legacy PFASs and their novel alternatives were investigated using fluorescence spectroscopy, together with further molecular docking. The results show that all the target PFASs were statically quenched against HSA with binding ratios of 1:1. The binding constants of long-chain PFASs and novel alternatives of perfluoroalkanesulfonic acids (PFSAs) were greater than 102, whereas those of short-chain PFASs alternatives and novel alternatives of perfluorocarboxylic acids (PFCAs) were less than 102. In general, the binding affinities of PFCAs on HSA were less than that of PFSAs, while the binding affinities of short-chain PFASs alternatives on HSA were smaller than those of long-chain PFASs and their novel alternatives. Therefore, bindings to HSA could be considered as an important influencing factor for the bioaccumulation of legacy and novel PFASs in the human body.
Polyhexamethylene Guanidine Phosphate Enhanced Procoagulant Activity through Oxidative-Stress-Mediated Phosphatidylserine Exposure in Platelets
Authors: Choi Ju Hee , Kim Keunyoung
Published: January 2024

Polyhexamethylene guanidine phosphate (PHMG-p) is a common biocidal disinfectant that is widely used in industry and household products. However, PHMG-p was misused as a humidifier disinfectant (HD) in South Korea, which had fatal health effects. Various health problems including cardiovascular diseases were observed in HD-exposed groups. However, the potential underlying mechanism of HD-associated cardiovascular diseases is poorly understood. Here, we examined the procoagulant activity of platelets caused by PHMG-p and clarified the underlying mechanism. PHMG-p enhanced phosphatidylserine (PS) exposure through alteration of phospholipid transporters, scramblase, and flippase. Intracellular calcium elevation, intracellular ATP depletion, and caspase-3 activation appeared to underlie phospholipid transporter dysregulation caused by PHMG-p, which was mediated by oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction. Notably, antioxidant enzyme catalase and calcium chelator EGTA reversed PHMG-p-induced PS exposure and thrombin generation, confirming the contributive role of oxidative stress and intracellular calcium in the procoagulant effects of PHMG-p. These series of events led to procoagulant activation of platelets, which was revealed as enhanced thrombin generation. Collectively, PHMG-p triggered procoagulant activation of platelets, which may promote prothrombotic risks and cardiovascular diseases. These findings improve our understanding of HD-associated cardiovascular diseases.
Evaluation of the Susceptibility of Lotus Seeds (Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn.) to Aspergillus flavus Infection and Aflatoxin Contamination
Authors: Elamin Abdelrahman , Sultana Sharmin , Sakuda Shohei
Published: January 2024

The seeds of lotus (Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn.) have been used as significant medicinal and nutritional ingredients worldwide. The abundant proteins and polysaccharides in lotus seeds make them susceptible to contamination by aflatoxin (AF), a fungal toxic metabolite. This study was conducted to investigate the susceptibility of lotus seeds at different stages of ripening to AF contamination, as well as the mechanism of the contamination. Seven groups of lotus receptacles with seeds at different ripening stages (A–G, from immature to mature) were used for the experiment. Spores of Aspergillus flavus, an AF producer, were inoculated on the water-gap area of the seeds in each receptacle. Then, each receptacle was covered with a sterilized bag, and its stalk part was soaked in water containing a life-prolonging agent, after which it was kept at room temperature for 14 days. The AF content of each whole inoculated seed from the A–G groups and that of each seed part (pericarp, cotyledon, and embryo) from the D and E groups were determined using high-performance liquid chromatography. Microtome sections were prepared from the samples and observed under a light microscope and scanning electron microscope. The seeds from the A and D groups had higher AF contents than the seeds from the B, C, E, F, and G groups, indicating that the condition of the water-gap area and the development of the embryo and cotyledon parts of the seeds are associated with AF contamination.
Effects of Opioid Withdrawal on Psychobiology in People Living with HIV
Authors: Grant Igor , Krupitsky Evgeny , Vetrova Marina , Umlauf Anya , Heaton Robert K. , Hauger Richard L. , Toussova Olga , Franklin Donald R. , Letendre Scott L. , Woody George , Blokhina Elena , Lioznov Dmitry , Zvartau Edwin
Published: January 2024

Objective: Many persons with opioid use disorders (OUDs) have HIV disease and experience clinically significant stress after they enroll in abstinence-based treatment and undergo medically assisted withdrawal. We examined whether opioid withdrawal affects virologic control, inflammatory markers, cognition, and mood in persons with an OUD and HIV, and explored whether measures of withdrawal stress, such as activation of the HPA axis, contribute to alterations in immune function, cognition, and mood. Method and participants: Study participants were 53 persons with HIV who were admitted for OUD treatment at the City Addiction Hospital in Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation. Participants were examined at admission, at the anticipated peak of withdrawal 3 to 7 days after the last day of a clonidine-based withdrawal process lasting 7 to 14 days, and 3 to 4 weeks after completing withdrawal. At these times, participants received medical exams and were evaluated for symptoms of withdrawal, as well as cognition and mood. Viral load, plasma cortisol, DHEA sulfate ester (DHEA-S), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and soluble CD14 (sCD14) were determined. Multivariable models examined the relationships between markers of HPA activation and the other parameters over time. Results: HPA activation as indexed by cortisol/DHEA-S ratio increased during withdrawal, as did markers of immune activation, IL-6 and sCD14. There were no significant associations between viral load and indicators of HPA activation. In longitudinal analyses, higher cortisol/DHEA sulfate was related to worse cognition overall, and more mood disturbance. Increase in IL-6 was associated with worse cognitive performance on a learning task. There were no significant associations with sCD14. Conclusions: Worsening of cognition and measures of mood disturbance during withdrawal were associated with activation of the HPA axis and some measures of inflammation. Whether repeated episodes of opioid withdrawal have a cumulative impact on long-term HIV outcomes and neurocognition is a topic for further investigation.
Hybrid Immunity from Gam-COVID-Vac Vaccination and Natural SARS-CoV-2 Infection Confers Broader Neutralizing Activity against Omicron Lineage VOCs Than Revaccination or Reinfection
Authors: Kulemzin Sergey V. , Guselnikov Sergey V. , Nekrasov Boris G. , Molodykh Svetlana V. , Kuvshinova Irina N. , Murasheva Svetlana V. , Belovezhets Tatyana N. , Gorchakov Andrey A. , Chikaev Anton N. , Chikaev Nikolai A. , Volkova Olga Y. , Yurina Anna A. , Najakshin Alexander M. , Taranin Alexander V.
Published: January 2024

SARS-CoV-2 has a relatively high mutation rate, with the frequent emergence of new variants of concern (VOCs). Each subsequent variant is more difficult to neutralize by the sera of vaccinated individuals and convalescents. Some decrease in neutralizing activity against new SARS-CoV-2 variants has also been observed in patients vaccinated with Gam-COVID-Vac. In the present study, we analyzed the interplay between the history of a patient’s repeated exposure to SARS-CoV-2 antigens and the breadth of neutralization activity. Our study includes four cohorts of patients: Gam-COVID-Vac booster vaccinated individuals (revaccinated, RV), twice-infected unvaccinated individuals (reinfected, RI), breakthrough infected (BI), and vaccinated convalescents (VC). We assessed S-protein-specific antibody levels and the ability of sera to neutralize lentiviral particles pseudotyped with Spike protein from the original Wuhan variant, as well as the Omicron variants BA.1 and BA.4/5. Individuals with hybrid immunity (BI and VC cohorts) exhibited significantly higher levels of virus-binding IgG and enhanced breadth of virus-neutralizing activity compared to individuals from either the revaccination or reinfection (RV and RI) cohorts. These findings suggest that a combination of infection and vaccination, regardless of the sequence, results in significantly higher levels of S-protein-specific IgG antibodies and the enhanced neutralization of SARS-CoV-2 variants, thereby underscoring the importance of hybrid immunity in the context of emerging viral variants.
Evaluation of the Robustness Verification of Downstream Production Process for Inactivated SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine and Different Chromatography Medium Purification Effects
Authors: Pang Jia-Hui , Guo Chang-Fu , Hao Peng-Liang , Meng Sheng-Li , Guo Jing , Zhang Dou , Ji Ya-Qi , Ming Ping-Gang
Published: January 2024

Background: Large-scale vaccine production requires downstream processing that focuses on robustness, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. Methods: To assess the robustness of the current vaccine production process, three batches of COVID-19 Omicron BA.1 strain hydrolytic concentrated solutions were selected. Four gel filtration chromatography media (Chromstar 6FF, Singarose FF, Bestarose 6B, and Focurose 6FF) and four ion exchange chromatography media (Maxtar Q, Q Singarose, Diamond Q, and Q Focurose) were used to evaluate their impact on vaccine purification. The quality of the vaccine was assessed by analyzing total protein content, antigen content, residual Vero cell DNA, residual Vero cell protein, and residual bovine serum albumin (BSA). Antigen recovery rate and specific activity were also calculated. Statistical analysis was conducted to evaluate process robustness and the purification effects of the chromatography media. Results: The statistical analysis revealed no significant differences in antigen recovery (p = 0.10), Vero HCP residue (p = 0.59), Vero DNA residue (p = 0.28), and BSA residue (p = 0.97) among the three batches of hydrolytic concentrated solutions processed according to the current method. However, a significant difference (p < 0.001) was observed in antigen content. Conclusions: The study demonstrated the remarkable robustness of the current downstream process for producing WIBP-CorV vaccines. This process can adapt to different batches of hydrolytic concentrated solutions and various chromatography media. The research is crucial for the production of inactivated SARS-CoV-2 vaccines and provides a potential template for purifying other viruses.
Breaking Barriers: A Future Perspective on Glioblastoma Therapy with mRNA-Based Immunotherapies and Oncolytic Viruses
Authors: Guterres Alexandro , Filho Paulo Niemeyer Soares , Moura-Neto Vivaldo
Published: January 2024

The use of mRNA-based immunotherapies that leverage the genomes of oncolytic viruses holds significant promise in addressing glioblastoma (GBM), an exceptionally aggressive neurological tumor. We explore the significance of mRNA-based platforms in the area of immunotherapy, introducing an innovative approach to mitigate the risks associated with the use of live viruses in cancer treatment. The ability to customize oncolytic virus genome sequences enables researchers to precisely target specific cancer cells, either through viral genome segments containing structural proteins or through a combination of regions with oncolytic potential. This strategy may enhance treatment effectiveness while minimizing unintended impacts on non-cancerous cells. A notable case highlighted here pertains to advanced findings regarding the application of the Zika virus (ZIKV) in GBM treatment. ZIKV, a member of the family Flaviviridae, shows oncolytic properties against GBM, opening novel therapeutic avenues. We explore intensive investigations of glioblastoma stem cells, recognized as key drivers in GBM initiation, progression, and resistance to therapy. However, a comprehensive elucidation of ZIKV’s underlying mechanisms is imperative to pave the way for ZIKV-based clinical trials targeting GBM patients. This investigation into harnessing the potential of oncolytic-virus genomes for mRNA-based immunotherapies underscores its noteworthy implications, potentially paving the way for a paradigm shift in cancer treatment strategies.
Comparison between Bilateral Ultrasound-Guided Quadratus Lumborum Block and Sacrococcygeal Epidural in Cats Undergoing Ovariectomy
Authors: dos-Santos José Diogo , Ginja Mário , Martins João , Cabral Patrícia , Alves-Pimenta Sofia , Ribeiro Lénio , Otero Pablo E. , Colaço Bruno
Published: January 2024

Background: Ultrasound-guided quadratus lumborum block (QLB) and sacrococcygeal epidural anaesthesia (ScE) have been used for neutering cats, providing effective pain relief. Objectives: To compare the effects of the QLB with those of ScE in cats undergoing ovariectomies. Methods: Feral cats undergoing ovariectomy were premedicated with dexmedetomidine (20 μg kg−1) and methadone (0.2 mg kg−1) intramuscularly. Anaesthesia was induced with 2–4 mg kg−1 of propofol intravenously and maintained with isoflurane in oxygen. The cats were randomly allocated to the groups QLB (bilateral QLB with 0.4 mL kg−1 of 0.25% bupivacaine) and ScE (0.3 mL kg−1 of 0.25% bupivacaine). Hemodynamic data and analgesia rescue were collected at four intraoperative periods. The pain scale and motor block were assessed in both groups during the postoperative period. Results: The ScE results in increased hypotension, prolonged extubation time, and higher postoperative motor block than the QLB (p < 0.05). The QLB and ScE groups required a similar number of intraoperative rescues and presented the same postoperative pain scale classification. Conclusions: The QLB with 0.25% bupivacaine is a potential alternative to ScE with 0.25% bupivacaine in perioperative pain management in elective cat ovariectomy. The QLB promoted less hypotension and postoperative motor block when compared with the ScE group.
Estrategias de afrontamiento al síndrome de burnout en médicos-docentes universitarios en postpandemia
Authors: Dionicio-Escalante Elisa-Roxana , Mendez-Vergaray Juan , Flores Edward
Published: January 2024

Los médico-docentes han sufrido las secuelas de la pandemia y que sigue evidenciándose en la postpandemia como estrés laboral; por ello tuvieron que aprender estrategias de afrontamiento para superar este problema de salud mental. Objetivo. Analizar las características del Síndrome de burnout Académico de cuatro docentes-médicos universitarios y las estrategias de afrontamiento que utilizaron en un contexto de postpandemia. Metodología. Investigación cualitativa, fenomenológica, interpretativa, en la que se utilizó la entrevista en profundad a cuatro docentes-médicos (2 varones y 2 mujeres), permitió analizar y reflexionar acerca de las experiencias de los participantes de las secuelas que les dejó el SBA después de la pandemia generada por la COVID-19 y cómo realizaron el afrontamiento. Las categorías fueron SBA y afrontamiento. El trabajo se llevó a cabo en tres fases: (a) descriptiva, en ella se organizó y planificó el proceso metodológico y ético, (b) fase estructural, se elaboraron las guías de entrevista, la matriz para organizar la información, transcripción y codificación de la información y (c) fase de discusión, en la se confrontaron las experiencias discrepantes y semejantes que fueron contrastados con otros estudios. Hallazgos. La COVID-19 generó en los médico-docentes SBA, que se evidenciaron en problemas emocionales, cognitivos, conductuales-psicosomáticos y sociales. El afrontamiento integral con las técnicas cognitivo-conductuales, mindfulness, relajación y la religión permitieron revertir los efectos del SBA. A manera de conclusión. El integral de técnicas terapéuticas de afrontamiento a SBA postraumático mostraron ser eficientes.
Importancia de los radiotrazadores MDP, DTPA, MIBI marcados con Tc99m en diagnóstico de medicina nuclear
Authors: Muriel Paredes Kelly , Corte Juela Christian José
Published: January 2024

La medicina nuclear utiliza radiofármacos, conocidos como radiotrazadores, para evaluar la función y el metabolismo de órganos y sistemas del cuerpo. Objetivo. Examinar la relevancia de los radiotrazadores MDP, DTPA y MIBI, marcados con tecnecio-99m (Tc99m), en el diagnóstico en medicina nuclear. Metodología. Se siguió el método PRISMA para identificar estudios publicados entre 2010 y 2022. Las bases de datos consultadas incluyeron Dialnet, Elsevier, Research, Redalyc, PubMed, Google Académico y Scielo. Se utilizaron descriptores específicos como "radiotrazadores Tc99m", "MDP", "DTPA", "MIBI", y "medicina nuclear", centrando la búsqueda en diagnóstico y excluyendo propósitos terapéuticos. Resultados. De 14 estudios analizados, se observó una predominancia en investigaciones sobre radiotrazadores MDP y MIBI marcados con Tc99m, enfocándose en diagnósticos relacionados con lesiones paratiroideas, hiperparatiroidismo, enfermedades esqueléticas, enfermedad arterial coronaria y perfusión miocárdica. Conclusiones. Los radiotrazadores MDP, DTPA y MIBI marcados con Tc99m demuestran eficacia en diversas aplicaciones diagnósticas, incluyendo la localización de adenomas paratiroideos y la detección de condiciones como el mieloma múltiple. A pesar de sus beneficios, es crucial continuar investigando y desarrollando nuevos radiofármacos para expandir su utilidad clínica y mejorar aún más la atención médica en el campo de la medicina nuclear.