bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anwendung eines Software-Sensors, basierend auf der Zustandsschätzung auf bewegtem Horizont, in der Biotechnologie (Software-Sensor Based on Moving Horizon State Estimation with Application in Biotechnology)
Authors: Buchen Andreas , Kolahi Kourosh , Röck Helmut
Published: May 2006

Zur Führung und Optimierung biotechnologischer Prozesse ist deren Zustandsinformation von zentraler Bedeutung. Software-Sensoren können zur Gewinnung dieser Information genutzt werden. In diesem Artikel wird ein Entwurfsansatz, basierend auf der Zustandsschätzung auf bewegtem Horizont, präsentiert. Dieser Ansatz ist eine optimierungsbasierte Strategie zur Zustandsschätzung, die auch bei nichtlinearen Systemen eingesetzt werden kann. Eine begrenzte Anzahl von zurückliegenden Messwerten wird zur Schätzung des momentanen Zustandes benutzt. Wichtige Eigenschaften dieses Ansatzes sind die Möglichkeiten, zusätzliches Prozesswissen in Form von Beschränkungen der Zustandsgrößen zu nutzen und Messwerte mit verschiedenen Abtastraten zu verarbeiten. Um die Leistungsfähigkeit des Verfahrens zu demonstrieren, wird es bei einem Produktionsprozess des Bakteriums Photorhabdus luminescens eingesetzt. Hierbei werden die Messwerte der Kohlendioxidproduktionsrate und der Glukosekonzentration im Medium dazu genutzt, die Biomasse, ein kristallines Einschlusskörperprotein und zwei weitere Substrate im Medium zu schätzen.
A Validated Model for the Electromagnetic Flowmeter's Measuring Cell (Validiertes Modell für eine elektromagnetische Durchflussmesszelle)
Authors: Maalouf Aline I.
Published: May 2006

This paper proposes as well a measurement model for the electromagnetic flowmeter’s measuring cell that constitutes an off-line measurement model for the electromagnetic flowmeter with which it is possible to try different signal processing algorithms to estimate the flowrate value. This model was validated using impedance spectroscopy and spectrometry. Knowing the value of the electrode/electrolyte impedance it is possible as well to determine the value of the input impedance of the preamplifier that reduces the error caused by the impedance of the electrode/electrolyte interface. The value of this latter is used on the other hand to determine the value of the lower frequency limit above which the reading of the induced voltage level of the electromagnetic flowmeter can be carried out with a satisfactory signal-to-noise ratio.
Pregnancy in rats is modulated by ganglionic cholinergic action
Authors: Casais M , Delgado S M , Sosa Z , Rastrilla A M
Published: May 2006

The control of ovarian steroidogenesis during pregnancy is mainly of endocrine origin. At present, there is little information about the influence of neural factors on the gestation physiology. The purpose of this work was to study the action of cholinergic agents in celiac ganglion upon the liberation of progesterone and ovarian androstenedione in the second half of pregnancy in rats. We used the ex vivo celiac ganglion–superior ovarian nerve–ovary integrated system (celiac ganglion–SON–ovary) that was incubated in buffer solution for 180 min, with the celiac ganglion and the ovary located in different compartments and linked by the SON.

The results obtained indicate that the control values of ovarian androstenedione vary according to the pregnancy day analyzed. The addition of acetylcholine in ganglion decreased the liberation of both steroids on Day 15 whereas at the end of pregnancy it decreased the liberation of androstenedione without modifying progesterone. Due to the effect observed with atropine and hexametonium, acetylcholine action might occur through unspecific ganglionic pathways (Days 15 and 21) or through muscarinic ganglionic receptors (Days 19 and 20). Thus, we conclude that the cholinergic sympathetic system from the celiac ganglion might be a fine modulator of the pregnancy physiology.
The role of neuropeptide Y and interaction with leptin in regulating feed intake and luteinizing hormone and growth hormone secretion in the pig
Authors: Barb C Richard , Kraeling Robert R , Rampacek George B , Hausman Gary J
Published: May 2006

Two experiments (EXP) were conducted in ovariectomized prepubertal gilts to test the hypothesis that neuropeptide Y (NPY) stimulates appetite and modulates LH and GH secretion, and that leptin modifies such acute effects of NPY on feeding behavior and LH and GH secretion. In EXP I, gilts received intracerebroventricular (ICV) injections of 0.9% saline (saline; n=6), or 10 μg (n=7), 50 μg (n=5) or 100 μg (n=7) NPY in saline and blood samples were collected. In EXP II, gilts received ICV injections of S (n=4), or 50 μg leptin (n=4), or 100 μg NPY (n=4) or 100 μg NPY +50 μg leptin (n=4) in saline, and feed intake was measured at 4, 20 and 44 h after feed presentation and blood samples collected. In EXP I, NPY suppressed LH secretion and the 100 μg dose stimulated GH secretion. In EXP II, NPY reversed the inhibitory effect of leptin on feed intake and suppressed LH secretion, but serum GH concentrations were unaffected. These results support the hypothesis that NPY modulates feed intake, and LH and GH secretion and may serve as a neural link between metabolic state and the reproductive and growth axis in the pig.
Estimating the Effects of Smolt Transportation from Different Vantage Points and Management Perspectives
Authors: Buchanan Rebecca A. , Skalski John R. , Smith Steven G.
Published: May 2006

Smolt transportation is a major mitigation strategy in the Columbia River hydrosystem, yet measures of its effects on adult return rates are often unclear. Managers use a variety of transportation effect measures that need to be clearly defined and easy to understand. We develop eight alternative transportation effect measures based on a release–recapture model of juvenile and adult passive integrated transponder tag data and relate the measures to different management perspectives. The performance measures include site-specific transport−in-river ratios (T/Is) that view the effect of transportation operations at a site either separate from (“isolated”) or in the context of (“contextual”) the rest of the transportation system. Both relative and absolute systemwide measures of transportation effects are developed, as well as measures for fish in the release group had they been untagged. All performance measures are calculated by the program ROSTER. Transportation effect measures for summer Chinook salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha from the McCall and Pahsimeroi hatcheries released in the Snake River in 1999 range from the isolated site-specific relative value at Lower Granite Dam of 2.015 (SE = 0.152) to a systemwide relative value of 1.232 (SE = 0.036). This paper explains how these two estimates and the others are correct depending on perspective and management intent.
Habitual Short Sleep Duration, Diet, and Development of Type 2 Diabetes in Adults
Authors: Nôga Diana Aline , Meth Elisa de Mello e Souza , Pacheco André Pekkola , Tan Xiao , Cedernaes Jonathan , van Egmond Lieve Thecla , Xue Pei , Benedict Christian
Published: March 2024

Importance

Understanding the interplay between sleep duration, dietary habits, and the risk of developing type 2 diabetes (T2D) is crucial for public health and diabetes prevention strategies.

Objective

To investigate the associations of type of diet and duration of sleep with the development of T2D.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Data derived from the UK Biobank baseline investigation (2006-2010) were analyzed for this cohort study between May 1 and September 30, 2023. The association between sleep duration and healthy dietary patterns with the risk of T2D was investigated during a median (IQR) follow-up of 12.5 (11.8-13.2) years (end of follow-up, September 30, 2021).

Exposure

For the analysis, 247 867 participants were categorized into 4 sleep duration groups: normal (7-8 hours per day), mild short (6 hours per day), moderate short (5 hours per day), and extreme short (3-4 hours per day). Their dietary habits were evaluated based on population-specific consumption of red meat, processed meat, fruits, vegetables, and fish, resulting in a healthy diet score ranging from 0 (unhealthiest) to 5 (healthiest).

Main Outcomes and Measures

Cox proportional hazards regression analysis was used to calculate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% CIs for the development of T2D across various sleep duration groups and healthy diet scores.

Results

The cohort comprised 247 867 participants with a mean [SD] age of 55.9 [8.1] years, of whom 52.3% were female. During the follow-up, 3.2% of participants were diagnosed with T2D based on hospital registry data. Cox regression analysis, adjusted for confounding variables, indicated a significant increase in the risk of T2D among participants with 5 hours or less of daily sleep. Individuals sleeping 5 hours per day exhibited a 1.16 adjusted HR (95% CI, 1.05-1.28), and individuals sleeping 3 to 4 hours per day exhibited a 1.41 adjusted HR (95% CI, 1.19-1.68) compared with individuals with normal sleep duration. Furthermore, individuals with the healthiest dietary patterns had a reduced risk of T2D (HR, 0.75 [95% CI, 0.63-0.88]). The association between short sleep duration and increased risk of T2D persisted even for individuals following a healthy diet, but there was no multiplicative interaction between sleep duration and healthy diet score.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study involving UK residents, habitual short sleep duration was associated with increased risk of developing T2D. This association persisted even among participants who maintained a healthy diet. To validate these findings, further longitudinal studies are needed, incorporating repeated measures of sleep (including objective assessments) and dietary habits.
Effect of Ergocalciferol on β-Cell Function in New-Onset Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Nwosu Benjamin Udoka , Parajuli Sadichchha , Sharma Rohit B. , Lee Austin F.
Published: March 2024

This secondary analysis of a randomized clinical trial evaluates the effectiveness of ergocalciferol vs placebo in youths with newly diagnosed type 1 diabetes.
Polymorphic Matters: Architecture, Change and Imagination
Authors: Simone Ashley
Published: March 2024

Polymorphism was an important tactic used by Woods to render objects and spaces in the process of transformation and transmutation. Ashley Simone, Associate Professor at the Pratt Institute School of Architecture in New York City, explores the terrain where materiality meets change, where fantasy supplants reality. Her prime example is the suite of drawings for the ‘AEON’ project.
Rhodium(I) Catalyzed Hydroacylation Reactions of Alkenyl Compounds
Authors: Zhao Jun , Lu Yuan‐Yi , Wang Rui , Peters Patience , Li Hong‐Shuang
Published: March 2024

Transition‐metal‐catalyzed hydroacylation of unsaturated substrates with aldehydes involving the formyl C(sp2)−H bond activation provides an expedient and efficient access to the carbonyl compounds such as ketones and esters, which are a class of important scaffolds in natural products and in drug development. Recently, extensive attention has been paid to the hydroacylation reactions of the components containing an alkenyl moiety that can trigger a regioselective transformation in the presence of a transition metal catalyst. In this review, we summarize the constructive endeavors in rhodium(I)‐catalyzed (formal) hydroacylation reactions from 2018, and the plausible pathway is also dissected to offer some insights into the reaction mechanism.
An extra X chromosome among adult women in the Million Veteran Program: A more benign perspective of trisomy X
Authors: Davis Shanlee M. , Teerlink Craig C. , Lynch Julie A. , Klamut Natalia , Gorman Bryan R. , Pagadala Meghana S. , Panizzon Matthew S. , Merritt Victoria C. , Genovese Giulio , Ross Judith L. , Hauger Richard L.
Published: March 2024

Despite affecting in 1 in every 1000 females, remarkably little is known about trisomy X syndrome (47,XXX), especially among older adults who are undiagnosed. In this study, we aimed to determine the prevalence of 47,XXX among females enrolled in the Million Veterans Program (MVP; mean age 50.2 ± 13.6 years), and compare broad health outcomes between females with 47,XXX and 46,XX matched controls. We identified 61 females with an additional X chromosome, corresponding to a prevalence of 103 per 100,000 females; 27.9% had been clinically diagnosed. Females with 47,XXX had taller stature (+6.1 cm, p < 0.001), greater rate of outpatient encounters (p = 0.026), higher odds of kidney disease (odds ratio [OR] = 12.3; 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.9–51.8), glaucoma (OR = 5.1; 95% CI 1.5–13.9), and congestive heart failure (OR = 5.6; 95% CI 1.4–24.2), and were more likely to be unemployed (p = 0.008) with lower annual income (p = 0.021) when compared with 46,XX controls of the same age and genetic ancestry. However, there were no differences in the rates of other encounter types, Charlson Comorbidity Index, all other medical and psychological diagnoses, military service history or quality of life metrics. In conclusion, in this aging and predominately undiagnosed sample, 47,XXX conferred few differences when compared with matched controls, offering a more reassuring perspective to the trisomy X literature.
4‐{3‐[(Pyridin‐4‐ylmethyl)amino]‐[1,2,4]triazolo[4,3‐b][1,2,4]triazin‐6‐yl}phenol: An improved anticancer agent in hepatocellular carcinoma and a selective MDR1/MRP modulator
Authors: Khatir Zahra Zakeri , Di Sotto Antonella , Percaccio Ester , Tuylu Kucukkilinc Tuba , Ercan Ayse , Chippindale Ann M. , Valipour Mehdi , Irannejad Hamid
Published: March 2024

Hepatocellular carcinoma is the most common type of primary liver cancer. However, multidrug resistance (MDR) is a major obstacle to the effective chemotherapy of cancer cells. This report documents the rational design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of a novel series of triazolotriazines substituted with CH2NH‐linked pyridine for use as dual c‐Met/MDR inhibitors. Compound 12g with IC50 of 3.06 μM on HepG2 cells showed more potency than crizotinib (IC50 = 5.15 μM) in the MTT assay. In addition, 12g inhibited c‐Met kinase at a low micromolar level (IC50 = 0.052 μM). 12g significantly inhibited P‐gp and MRP1/2 efflux pumps in both cancerous HepG2 and BxPC3 cells starting from the lower concentrations of 3 and 0.3 µM, respectively. 12g did not inhibit MDR1 and MRP1/2 in noncancerous H69 cholangiocytes up to the concentration of 30 and 60 µM, respectively. Current results highlighted that cancerous cells were more susceptible to the effect of 12g than normal cells, in which the inhibition occurred only at the highest concentrations, suggesting a further interest in 12g as a selective anticancer agent. Overall, 12g, as a dual c‐Met and P‐gp/MRP inhibitor, is a promising lead compound for developing a new generation of anticancer agents.
Synthesis of Diaryl Tellurides with Sodium Aryltellurites under Mild Conditions
Authors: Li Shan , Cao Yuan , Jiang Lvqi , Liu Jie
Published: March 2024

A highly efficient new protocol has been developed for the formation of C−Te bonds, leading to both symmetrical and unsymmetrical diaryl tellurides. This protocol utilizes sodium aryltellurites (4), which can be easily prepared from low‐cost aryltelluride trichlorides and NaOH. The synthesis involves the use of 4 and arylazo sulfones as starting materials in the presence of (MeO)2P(O)H. A variety of diaryl tellurides are obtained in moderate to good yields using this method. Importantly, this innovative protocol eliminates the need for traditional, highly toxic aryltellurolating reagents such as diaryl ditellurides and elemental tellurium. This study will bring new vitality to the synthesis of tellurides.
Circular product design challenges: An exploratory study on critical barriers
Authors: Jugend Daniel , dos Santos Hugo Henrique , Garrido Susana , Siqueira Regiane Máximo , Mesa Jaime A.
Published: March 2024

Despite the recognition that the adoption of the circular economy depends on aligning the new product development process with the principles of circularity, there are still few studies on the barriers to circular product design. This article aims to contribute to this topic by developing an exploratory study to identify and analyze these barriers in the Brazilian context. In addition to a theoretical analysis, the fuzzy analytic hierarchy process was utilized to evaluate the significance of various hindrances and obstacles to circular product design. To gain a better understanding of these barriers, semi‐structured interviews were also conducted. Experts in areas such as sustainability, marketing, and R&D from companies that develop products participated in this research. The results of the study reveal that the difficulties supply chains have in providing circular economy‐based products and reverse logistics systems are among the main barriers. Challenges such as low consumer valorization of these products and a lack of knowledge and technologies were also identified as relevant. By investigating a set of barriers to circular product design, this study extends knowledge about the difficulties companies face in the transition to circular business models.
Advice on suicide prevention, for parents, from pediatricians and school psychologists
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: March 2024

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends pediatricians and health professionals screen for suicidal ideation and risk factors of suicide, and focused on this in a clinical report published in January: Suicide and Suicide Risk in Adolescents.
EBV‐associated CNS infection in an immunocompetent adult: A case report and literature review
Authors: Srifuengfung Gwyn , Suppakitjanusant Pichatorn , Chaisrimaneepan Nattanicha
Published: March 2024

Key Clinical Message

EBV infections rarely cause CNS involvement. For young adult patients with suspected CNS infection, bacterial and other common viral infections should be excluded first and treated empirically until proven otherwise. Challenges in diagnosing EBV‐associated CNS infection, emphasizing the role of CSF PCR in confirming the diagnosis.
Magneto‐Structural Correlation of Five‐Coordinate Trigonal Bipyramidal High Spin Cobalt(II) Complexes
Authors: Zhang Peng , Tian Yao‐Cheng , Wang Zhenxing , Lee Way‐Zen , Ye Shengfa
Published: March 2024

Here, we combined magnetometry, multi‐frequency electronic paramagnetic resonance, and wave function based ab initio calculations to investigate magnetic properties of two high spin Co(II) complexes Co(BDPRP) (BDPRP=2,6‐bis((2‐(S)‐di(4‐R)phenylhydroxylmethyl‐1‐pyrrolidi‐nyl)methyl)pyridine, R=H for 8; R=tBu for 9). Complexes 8 and 9 featuring effective D3h symmetry were found to possess D=24.0 and 32.0 cm−1, respectively, in their S=3/2 ground states of
. Ligand field analyses revealed that the low‐lying d‐d excited states make either positive or vanishing contributions to D. Hence, total positive D values were measured for 8 and 9, as well as related D3h high spin Co(II) complexes. In contrast, negative D values are usually observed for C3v congeners. In‐depth analyses suggested that lowering symmetry from D3h to C3v induces orbital mixing between
and
and admixes excited state
into the ground state. Both factors turn the total D value progressively negative with the increasing distance (δ) of the Co(II) center out of the equatorial plane. Therefore, δ determines the sign and magnitude of final D values of five‐coordinate trigonal bipyramidal S=3/2 Co(II) complexes as measured for a series of such species with varying δ.
Corporate sustainability practices and financial performance: The moderating role of corporate controversies and Shariah screening
Authors: Lee Siew Peng , Isa Mansor
Published: March 2024

This study examines the effects of corporate sustainability practices (CSP) on corporate financial performance (CFP). The study also examines the moderating role of corporate controversies and shariah compliance on the CSP‐CFP relationship. The results support the positive relationship between CSP and CFP. The study also finds that corporate controversies have a negative impact on financial performance and a negative moderating role on the CSP‐CFP relationship. This study also finds that Shariah compliance has a positive moderating role but loses its power when interacting with corporate controversies in influencing the impact of the CSP‐CFP relationship. An important implication of this study is that firms affected by controversy must find ways to mitigate the negative impact.
Harmonic suppression of active disturbance rejection control for virtual synchronous generators
Authors: Lin Jican , Liu Shenquan , Wang Gang
Published: March 2024

Virtual synchronous generators (VSGs) are comprised of an outer power loop and inner cascaded control loops. The dynamic performance of the output interface is severely degraded when microgrid loads exhibit variability and nonlinearity. Therefore, robustness against load disturbances must be possessed by any voltage control scheme. In this paper, a proportional resonance‐linear active disturbance rejection control (PR‐LADRC) scheme based on an improved linear extended state observer (ILESO) is proposed for VSG voltage control. In comparison with the traditional linear extended state observer (LESO), the differential state variable of the output voltage is utilized to increase the observation bandwidth; consequently, the proposed ILESO can effectively overcome the disadvantage of phase lag when tracking disturbances. Additionally, a proportional resonance controller is incorporated into the LESO feedforward channel to suppress voltage harmonics. The proposed scheme enhances the disturbance observation bandwidth compared to traditional strategies, resulting in a substantial improvement in both the disturbance observation capability of LADRC and the harmonic suppression ability of the VSG system. Theoretical analysis and simulations are conducted to validate the effectiveness of the proposed PR‐LADRC approach.
Study on creep deformation and energy development of underground surrounding rock under four‐dimensional support
Authors: Ma Zhanguo , Sun Junyu , Gong Peng , Yan Pengfei , Cui Nan , Zhang Ruichong
Published: March 2024

There is an urgent need to develop optimal solutions for deformation control of deep high‐stress roadways, one of the critical problems in underground engineering. The previously proposed four‐dimensional support (hereinafter 4D support), as a new support technology, can set the roadway surrounding rock under three‐dimensional pressure in the new balanced structure, and prevent instability of surrounding rock in underground engineering. However, the influence of roadway depth and creep deformation on the surrounding rock supported by 4D support is still unknown. This study investigated the influence of roadway depth and creep deformation time on the instability of surrounding rock by analyzing the energy development. The elastic strain energy was analyzed using the program redeveloped in FLAC3D. The numerical simulation results indicate that the combined support mode of 4D roof supports and conventional side supports is highly applicable to the stability control of surrounding rock with a roadway depth exceeding 520 m. With the increase of roadway depth, 4D support can effectively restrain the area and depth of plastic deformation in the surrounding rock. Further, 4D support limits the accumulation range and rate of elastic strain energy as the creep deformation time increases. 4D support can effectively reduce the plastic deformation of roadway surrounding rock and maintain the stability for a long deformation period of 6 months. As confirmed by in situ monitoring results, 4D support is more effective for the long‐term stability control of surrounding rock than conventional support.
Heterospecific pollen avoidance strategy prevails in the generalized plant–pollinator network on Yongxing Island
Authors: Wang Xiang‐Ping , Cai Jin‐Chao , Tong Ma‐Yin , Shi Miao‐Miao , Zhao Zhong‐Tao , Li Shi‐Jin , Tu Tie‐Yao
Published: March 2024

Heterospecific pollen (HP) deposition varies widely among species in communities, which has been explicated by two adaptation strategies: HP avoidance and HP tolerance. Studies of the plant–pollinator network have uncovered that oceanic island communities are highly generalized and strongly connected. It remains unclear, however, which strategy prevails in such communities. We examined stigma pollen deposition on 29 plant species, and assessed patterns of HP load size and diversity in the Yongxing Island community. We assessed the effects of phenotypic specialization and species‐level network structural properties of plant species on pollen deposition among species. The hypothesis of three accrual patterns of HP within species was tested by illustrating the relationship between conspecific pollen (CP) and HP receipt. Extensive variation occurred among species in HP receipt, while 75.9% of species received less than 10% HP and one species received more than 40% HP throughout the community. Flower size strongly drives the variation of HP receipt, while network structural properties had no effect on the pollen receipt. Nineteen species showed no relationship between the number of HP and CP loads, and they received smaller HP load sizes and lower HP proportions. Most plant species evolved HP avoidance strategy, and HP receipt was an occasional event for most plant species in the generalized community. HP and CP receipts are independent of each other in plant species with the HP avoidance mechanism. Our results highlight that plants in the generalized pollination system may preferentially select to minimize the HP load on stigmas.
Adherence to heart failure treatment in patients with peripartum cardiomyopathy
Authors: Hoevelmann Julian , Sliwa Karen , Schaar Juel Maalouli , Briton Olivia , Böhm Michael , Meyer Markus R. , Viljoen Charle
Published: March 2024

Aims

Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is characterized by left ventricular (LV) dysfunction developing towards the end of pregnancy or in the first months postpartum. Although about 60% of women with PPCM (the majority of which are prescribed evidence based heart failure [HF] medications) show LV recovery within 6 to 12 months, others remain with persistently impaired LV function. Poor adherence to medical therapy represents a major cause of avoidable hospitalizations, disability, and death in other cardiovascular conditions. In this study, we aimed to determine drug adherence to HF therapy among women with PPCM and to identify possible associations between drug adherence and LV recovery, functional status and psychological well‐being.

Methods and results

In this single‐centre, prospective, observational study, we included 36 consecutive women with PPCM. Adherence to HF treatment was assessed by (i) verifying the collection of pharmacy refills and (ii) using liquid chromatography high‐resolution mass spectrometry (LC‐HRMS). Participants were thereby classified as ‘adherent’ (i.e. all prescribed HF drugs were detectable by LC‐HRMS), ‘partially adherent’ (i.e. at least one prescribed drug detectable) or ‘non‐adherent’ (i.e. none of the prescribed drugs detectable). Health state index scores were assessed by EQ‐5D‐5L and HADS‐A/D (for anxiety/depression). Patients' median age was 32.4 years (IQR 27.6–36.1). At the adherence visit (which occurred at a median of 16 months [IQR 5–45] after PPCM diagnosis), prescription included beta‐blockers (77.8%), angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors/angiotensin II receptor blockers (75%), mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (47.2%) and loop diuretics (95.2%). Less than two thirds of patients (63.9%) collected all their pharmacy refills in the 6 months prior to adherence visit. According to LC‐HRMS, 23.5% participants were classified as adherent, 53.0% as partially adherent, and 23.5% as non‐adherent. Adherence was associated with significantly lower LVEDD at follow‐up (47 mm [IQR 46–52), vs. 56 mm [IQR 49–64] with partial adherence, and 62 mm [IQR 55–64] with non‐adherence, P = 0.022), and higher LVEF at follow‐up (60% [IQR 41–65]), vs. partially adherence (46% [IQR 34–50]) and non‐adherence (41.0% [IQR 29–47], P = 014). Adherent patients had a lower overall EQ‐ 5D score (5.5 [IQR 5–7.5], vs. 6 [IQR 5–7] in partially adherent, and 10 [IQR 8–15] in non‐adherent patients, P = 0.032) suggestive of a better self‐rated health status.

Conclusions

Adherence to HF therapy was associated with favourable LV reverse remodelling in PPCM and better self‐rated health status. Our study highlights the importance of drug adherence for functional recovery. Drug adherence should be an important component of patient communication and specific interventions in PPCM.
Enhanced S‐ARIMAX model performance and state‐of‐health prediction accuracy with battery pack degradation factor combinations
Authors: Lee Dongjae , Lee Pyeong‐Yeon , Baek Insu , Kang Deokhun , Kim Jonghoon
Published: March 2024

This study addresses the critical need for accurate state‐of‐health (SOH) predictions in lithium‐ion batteries, crucial for maintaining efficient battery operation and extending lifespan. We propose a novel approach utilizing the Seasonal autoregressive integrated moving average with exogenous variables (S‐ARIMAX) model, integrating multiple battery degradation factors as exogenous variables for precise SOH estimation. Our methodology involves correlation analysis to identify optimal factors, which are then incorporated into distinct cases of the S‐ARIMAX model. We evaluate the model's performance using mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) and identify voltage deviation as a highly correlated exogenous variable significantly impacting predictive accuracy. Notably, our findings underscore the S‐ARIMAX model's superiority in longer cycles, demonstrating a MAPE as low as 0.1113 at 160 cycles, emphasizing the model's adeptness at capturing cyclic patterns for precise long‐term SOH forecasts. Comparing S‐ARIMAX and ARIMAX models highlights the pivotal role of seasonality, particularly in long‐term predictions. The study's quantitative findings emphasize the necessity of integrating highly correlated variables and accounting for seasonal patterns in optimizing lithium‐ion battery SOH predictions. Our approach presents practical implications for maintaining battery performance and lifespan in electric vehicles and energy storage systems, underlining the importance of selecting strongly correlated variables and integrating seasonal components for accurate and reliable SOH forecasts.
Electricity price forecasting using quantile regression averaging with nonconvex regularization
Authors: Jiang He , Dong Yao , Wang Jianzhou
Published: March 2024

Electricity price forecasting (EPF) is an emergent research domain that focuses on forecasting the future electricity market price both deterministically and probabilistically. EPF has attracted enormous interest from both practitioners and scholars since the deregulation of the power market and wide applications of renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar energy. However, forecasting the electricity price accurately and efficiently is an extremely challenging task because of its high volatility, randomness, and fluctuation. Although quantile regression averaging (QRA) has been demonstrated to be efficacious in probabilistic EPF since the global energy forecasting competition in 2014 (GEFCom2014), it is sensitive to nuisance variables especially when the number of variables is large. The forecasting accuracy will be negatively affected by these nuisance variables. To address these challenges, this study investigates a nonconvex regularized QRA in probabilistic forecasting. Two types of nonconvex regularized QRA select the important inputs obtained from point forecasting to obtain more accurate forecasting outcomes. To demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed EPF model, two real datasets from the European power market are considered.
Investigating potato flour processing methods and ratios for noodle production
Authors: Buzera Ariel , Gikundi Evelyne , Kajunju Napoleon , Ishara Jackson , Orina Irene , Sila Daniel
Published: March 2024

A partial substitution of wheat flour with potato flour processed by various procedures was used to determine an optimal potato pretreatment method for noodle processing. Wheat flour was substituted with 10%, 30%, and 50% potato flour. Potato flour (PF) was processed using two different methods, including freeze‐drying (FD) and low‐temperature blanching, then oven drying (LTB_OD). The results showed that substituting wheat flour with freeze‐dried (FD) flour (44.29 μm) significantly decreased the mean particle size of the blended flour, while LTB_OD flour (223.09 μm) increased the mean particle size. The pasting properties of wheat flour significantly improved when potato flour was added, with FD flour blends having the highest results. The highest dough development time (14.46 min) was attained when LTB_OD potato flour was substituted up to 50%. The microstructure images showed a poor and discontinuous gluten framework when potato flour content reached 50%. Adding potato flour decreased noodles' brightness (L*) while increasing their yellowness (b*). Noodles made from wheat and LTB_OD flour blends resulted in the highest cooking loss. The texture properties of noodles deteriorated when potato flour content reached 30%. Substituting up to 30% with freeze‐dried flour and 10% LTB_OD resulted in noodles with the highest overall liking scores. The study suggests that for optimal noodle processing, substituting wheat flour with FD potato flour is more favorable than using LTB_OD, as it improves particle size, pasting properties, and overall liking scores while minimizing adverse effects on texture and cooking loss.
Assisted phytoextraction as a nature-based solution for the sustainable remediation of metal(loid)-contaminated soils
Authors: Balint Ramona , Boajă Iustina Popescu
Published: March 2024

Soil contamination is a significant environmental issue that poses a threat to human health and the ecosystems. Conventional remediation techniques, such as excavation and landfilling, are often expensive, disruptive, and unsustainable. As a result, there has been growing interest in developing sustainable remediation strategies that are cost-effective, environmentally friendly, and socially acceptable. One such solution is phytoextraction: a nature-based approach that uses the abilities of hyperaccumulator plants to uptake and accumulate metals and metalloids (potentially toxic elements [PTE]) without signs of toxicity. Once harvested, plant biomass can be treated to reduce its volume and weight by combustion, thus obtaining bioenergy, and the ashes can be used for the recovery of metals or in the construction industry. However, phytoextraction has shown variable effectiveness due to soil conditions and plant species specificity, which has led researchers to develop additional approaches known as assisted phytoextraction to enhance its success. Assisted phytoextraction is a remediation strategy based on modifying certain plant traits or using different materials to increase metal uptake or bioavailability. This review article provides a practical and up-to-date overview of established strategies and the latest scientific advancements in assisted phytoextraction. Our focus is on improving plant performance and optimizing the uptake, tolerance, and accumulation of PTE, as well as the accessibility of these contaminants. While we highlight the advantages of using hyperaccumulator plants for assisted phytoextraction, we also address the challenges and limitations associated with this approach. Factors such as soil pH, nutrient availability, and the presence of other contaminants can affect its efficiency. Furthermore, the real-world challenges of implementing phytoextraction on a large scale are discussed and strategies to modify plant traits for successful phytoremediation are presented. By exploring established strategies and the latest scientific developments in assisted phytoextraction, this review provides valuable guidance for optimizing a sustainable, nature-based technology. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2024;20:2003–2022. © 2024 SETAC

Key Points

Assisted phytoextraction is a promising technique for the remediation of soils contaminated with potentially toxic elements. Improving plant performance and promoting the solubility of potentially toxic elements are two critical steps for increasing the efficiency of phytoextraction. To be considered a nature-based solution, assisted phytoextraction should be integrated into a phytomanagement strategy, to ensure not only environmental but also economic and social benefits. There is a need for further insights into the key factors that control plant–bacteria and plant–fungi symbiosis involving native species to enhance phytoextraction.
Sustainability: A Complex System Governance Perspective
Authors: Keating Charles B. , Katina Polinpapilinho F. , Bradley Joseph M. , Hodge Richard , Pyne James C.
Published: March 2024

This paper explores the sustainability field from a complex system governance (CSG) perspective. In general, sustainability suggests maintenance at a specific rate or level. It is also frequently held as maintaining ecological balance to negate the depletion of natural resources. CSG offers sustainability a theoretically grounded, model based, and methodologically sound approach to better inform sustainability design, execution, and development for complex systems. CSG examines sustainability as an outcome‐based product resulting from effective governance of an underlying system which produces sustainability. Thus, sustainability is proposed as a ‘systems engineered product’, whose design, execution, and development will be favored by CSG systems engineering. Following an introduction, two primary objectives are pursued. First, systems theory is used to provide an alternative view of sustainability. Second, a perspective of sustainability is developed through the paradigm of the emerging CSG field. The paper closes with the contributions, opportunities, and challenges for deployment of CSG for enhanced development, transition, and maintenance of sustainable systems.
A Geo‐Spatial Method for Calculating BEV Charging Inconvenience using Publicly Available Data
Authors: Rabinowitz Aaron I. , Smart John G. , Coburn Timothy C. , Bradley Thomas H.
Published: March 2024

As governments and the automotive industry push towards electrification, it becomes increasingly critical to address the factors which influence individual car buying decisions. Evidence suggests that operational inconvenience or the perception thereof plays a large role in consumer decisions concerning battery electric vehicles (BEVs). BEV ownership inconvenience and its causal factors have been relatively understudied, rendering efforts to mitigate the issues insufficiently informed. This paper presents a method of producing an empirical equation which relates operational inconvenience to a small number of housing and local electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) infrastructure factors. The paper then further provides a method of applying the equation in a geo‐spatial context allowing for the evaluation of the effects of policies in a geographical manner. this method enables future quantitative analyses concerning investment in EVSE infrastructure to be directly sensitive to BEV operational inconvenience due to charging.
Bias in economic evaluation of variable rate application based on geographically weighted regression models with misspecified functional form
Authors: Mieno Taro , Li Xiaofei , Bullock David S.
Published: March 2024

Geographically weighted regression (GWR) has been presented as a valuable tool for estimating site‐specific yield response functions to derive recommendations of variable rate input. This study employs Monte Carlo simulations to illustrate that if GWR assumes a quadratic yield response functional form while the actual yield‐input relationship is quadratic‐plateau, it can significantly overestimate the economic value of variable rate application compared to its true value. Practitioners in precision agriculture should exercise caution when utilizing GWR for site‐specific input recommendations. Statistical community is also encouraged to develop tools in software packages providing GWR that allow more flexibility in functional form assumptions.
Pressure change at ankle joint in supramalleolar osteotomy with or without fibular osteotomy according to different types of varus ankle
Authors: Lee Jung‐Min , Lee Sung‐Jae , Park Chul Hyun
Published: March 2024

The need for additional fibular osteotomy (FO) when performing supramalleolar osteotomy (SMO) in the varus ankle arthritis (VAA) is controversial. Some cadaveric studies have been performed to prove this; however, it is difficult to implement deformities including talar tilting and translation in cadavers. In this study, we created a model of VAA with the tilting and translation using three‐dimensional (3‐D) finite element (FE) analysis and analyzed the results of SMO with or without FO depending on the types of VAA. The validated normal foot and ankle 3‐D FE model was constructed including the ankle cartilages of the talar dome and tibia plafond. The VAA models were determined and reconstructed by following the classification of VAA, VAA with medial translation for stage 3a, VAA with varus tilting (7.5°) for stage 3b. The postoperative SMO models (SMO with and without FO) were reconstructed by corresponding to each VAA models. The FE analysis conditions were commonly applied. The boundary condition of ankle joint was defined as “sliding condition” and applied 0.002 friction coefficient to realize lubricative property. Loading condition was assumed as a two‐leg standing position and half of the subject body weight (325 N) was loaded on center of ground to vertical direction. Contact pressure changes were predicted at the medial ankle cartilage. As a result, in VAA with medial translation, isolated SMO may provide sufficient pressure reduction at the medial ankle joint. However, in VAA with varus tilting, SMO combined with FO could appropriately relieve concentrated pressure at the medial ankle joint.
Proteomics analysis of enzyme systems and pathway changes during the moromi fermentation of soy sauce mash
Authors: He Wen‐Bin , Hou Sha , Zeng Long‐Ying , Tang Hong‐Biao , Tong Xing , Wu Chang‐Zheng , Liu Xiang , Tan Ge , Guo Li‐Qiong , Lin Jun‐Fang
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

During the brewing of soy sauce, the conversion of multiple substances is driven by various microorganisms and their secreted enzyme systems. Soy sauce mash is an important source of enzyme systems during moromi fermentation, but the changes of enzyme systems in soy sauce mash during moromi fermentation are poorly understood. In order to explore the predominant enzyme systems existing during moromi fermentation and to explain the characteristics of the enzyme system changes, an enzymatic activities assay and 4D‐label‐free proteomics analysis were conducted on soy sauce mash at different stages of fermentation.

RESULTS

The activities of hydrolytic enzymes in soy sauce mash decreased continuously throughout the fermentation process, while most of the characteristic physicochemical substances in soy sauce mash supernatant had already accumulated at the early stage of fermentation. Four hydrolytic enzymes were found to be positively correlated with important physicochemical indexes by principal component analysis and Pearson correlation analysis. The proteomics analysis revealed three highly upregulated enzymes and two enzymes that were present in important metabolic pathways throughout the fermentation process. Furthermore, it was found that Aspergillus oryzae was able to accumulate various nutrients in the soy sauce mash by downregulating most of its metabolic pathways.

CONCLUSION

Enzymes present with excellent properties during the moromi fermentation period could be obtained from these results. Meanwhile, the characterization of the metabolic pathways of microorganisms during the moromi fermentation period was revealed. The results provide a basis for more scientific and purposeful improvement of moromi fermentation in the future. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Tectoridin inhibits the growth of bladder cancer by regulating PI3K/MAPK pathway through RAB27B
Authors: Zhang Qianjin , Wang Leiyu , Yu Lei , Yu Quansheng , Xue Liuqing , Shen Zhiyong
Published: March 2024

Bladder cancer (BC) is a common and malignant tumor of the urinary tract, and its treatment options are limited. Tectoridin (TEC) has antitumor activity against prostate and colon cancer, but its effects on BC are poorly understood. BC cells were treated with increasing concentrations of TEC, and its effects on cell proliferation, migration, invasiveness, and apoptosis were assessed. Xenograft mouse model was used to evaluate the influences of TEC on BC tumor growth. Western blot analysis was conducted to explore the downstream pathways affected by TEC. TEC treatment decreased BC cell viability in a dose‐dependent manner (IC50 ≈ 25 μM), and inhibited cell proliferation, migration, and invasiveness while promoting apoptosis. Clinical analysis revealed high expression of RAB27B in BC tumor tissues, particularly in advanced stages, correlating with an unfavorable prognosis. In vitro experiments demonstrated that TEC suppressed the PI3K/MAPK pathway by targeting RAB27B, and overexpression of RAB27B counteracted the antitumor effects of TEC. In xenograft models, TEC administration suppressed tumor growth, reduced tumor volume, inhibited cell proliferation, and suppressed the PI3K/MAPK pathway, highlighting its potential as an inhibitor of tumor growth. TEC suppresses BC tumor growth by targeting RAB27B and inactivating the PI3K/MAPK signaling and may provide a promising therapeutic target for BC treatment.
Live-bait industry as a pathway for movement of nonnative and invasive species: Implications for conservation of native Texas fishes
Authors: Shepta Erin , Perkin Joshuah , Mayes Kevin B. , McGarrity Monica E. , Schalk Christopher M. , Montaña Carmen G.
Published: March 2024

Objective

Live-bait species are widely used in recreational fishing throughout the United States. However, the use of invasive fish species as live bait has been identified as a common pathway for their introduction into aquatic ecosystems. We assessed the role that the live-bait industry has in facilitating the introduction of nonnative and invasive species into Texas rivers. We focused on two invasive cyprinodontid species, the Sheepshead Minnow Cyprinodon variegatus and Gulf Killifish Fundulus grandis, which are believed to have been introduced into inland Texas rivers via bait-bucket releases by anglers.

Methods

We conducted telephone and in-person surveys of live-bait shops in Texas on a seasonal basis (summer, fall, winter, spring) for 1 year. Locally owned bait shops and regional aquaculture facilities and hatcheries were included in the surveys.

Result

Surveys did not reveal the presence of these invasive cyprinodontids in inland bait shops but did reveal the sale of nonnative Goldfish Carassius auratus and their black color morph, the black salty goldfish. Surveys conducted among inland and coastal live bait shops confirmed the sale of only one nonnative bait fish and six bait items native only to certain regions of Texas. Telephone surveys with aquaculture industry experts revealed that the aquaculture industry was also facilitating the movement of nonnative game and nongame fish species throughout the state.

Conclusion

Given the potential for nonnative and invasive species to negatively affect recipient aquatic ecosystems, the continued distribution of such species within the aquaculture industry represents a potential threat in Texas. Our findings highlight the need for close monitoring of the live-bait industry in the state to prevent further introductions into inland waters and reduce potential ecological risks to native fish populations and overall ecosystem functions and services.