bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement in Radiation Oncology: Interpretation of Individual Scores and Change over Time in Clinical Practice
Authors: Kwon Jae-Yung , Russell Lara , Coles Theresa , Klaassen Robert J. , Schick-Makaroff Kara , Sibley Kathryn M. , Mitchell Sandra A. , Sawatzky Richard
Published: April 2022

Tools for measuring patients’ perceived health and quality of life, such as patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), inform clinical decisions for patients requiring radiation therapy. However, there may be inconsistencies in how patients interpret and respond to PROMs due to cultural, environmental, personal, or experiential factors. Differential item functioning (DIF) and response shift (RS) refer to differences in the meaning of PROMs between patients or over time (respectively). DIF and RS can threaten the accurate interpretation and use of PROMs, potentially resulting in erroneous conclusions about effectiveness, and flawed individual-level clinical decision-making. Given the empirical evidence of DIF and RS, we aim to review clinical implications and solutions for addressing DIF and RS by providing vignettes from collaborative examinations with workshop participants, as well as the literature. By making these methodological concepts accessible and relevant, for practice, clinicians may feel more confident to ask clarifying questions of patients when PROM scores and the contextual patient information do not align. PROM scores need to be interpreted via dialogue with the patient to avoid misinterpretation due to DIF and RS, which could diminish patient–clinician communication and impede shared decision-making. This work is part of an interdisciplinary knowledge translation initiative focused on the interpretation of PROM scores by clinically-oriented audiences.
An Image Encryption Algorithm Based on Discrete-Time Alternating Quantum Walk and Advanced Encryption Standard
Authors: Liu Guangzhe , Li Wei , Fan Xingkui , Li Zhuang , Wang Yuxuan , Ma Hongyang
Published: April 2022

This paper proposes an image encryption scheme based on a discrete-time alternating quantum walk (AQW) and the advanced encryption standard (AES). We use quantum properties to improve the AES algorithm, which uses a keystream generator related to AQW parameters to generate a probability distribution matrix. Some singular values of the matrix are extracted as the key to the AES algorithm. The Rcon of the AES algorithm is replaced with the elements of the probability distribution matrix. Then, the ascending order of the size of the clone probability distribution matrix scrambles the mapping rules of the S-box and ShiftRow transformations in the AES algorithm. The algorithm uses a probability distribution matrix and plaintext XOR operation to complete the preprocessing and uses the modified AES algorithm to complete the encryption process. The technology is based on simulation verification, including pixel correlation, histograms, differential attacks, noise attacks, information entropy, key sensitivity, and space. The results demonstrate a remarkable encryption effect. Compared with other improved AES algorithms, this algorithm has the advantages of the original AES algorithm and improves the ability to resist correlation attacks.
Critical Analysis of Hypothesis Tests in Federal Information Processing Standard (140-2)
Authors: Almaraz Luengo Elena , Cerna Marcos Brian Leiva , Villalba Luis Javier García , Hernandez-Castro Julio , Hurley-Smith Darren
Published: April 2022

This work presents an analysis of the existing dependencies between the tests of the FIPS 140-2 battery. Two main analytical approaches are utilized, the first being a study of correlations through the Pearson’s correlation coefficient that detects linear dependencies, and the second one being a novel application of the mutual information measure that allows detecting possible non-linear relationships. In order to carry out this study, the FIPS 140-2 battery is reimplemented to allow the user to obtain p-values and statistics that are essential for more rigorous end-user analysis of random number generators (RNG).
A Fuzzy Prescriptive Analytics Approach to Power Generation Capacity Planning
Authors: Tektaş Berna , Turan Hasan Hüseyin , Kasap Nihat , Çebi Ferhan , Delen Dursun
Published: April 2022

This study examines the long-term energy capacity investment problem of a power generation company (GenCo), considering the drought threat posed by climate change in hydropower resources in Turkey. The mid-term planning decisions such as maintenance and refurbishment scheduling of power plants are also considered in the studied investment planning problem. In the modeled electricity market, it is assumed that GenCos conduct business in uncertain market conditions with both bilateral contracts (BIC) and day-ahead market (DAM) transactions. The problem is modeled as a fuzzy mixed-integer linear programming model with a fuzzy objective and fuzzy constraints to handle the imprecisions regarding both the electricity market (e.g., prices) and environmental factors (e.g., hydroelectric output due to drought). Bellman and Zadeh’s max-min criteria are used to transform the fuzzy capacity investment model into a model with a crisp objective and constraints. The applicability of methodology is illustrated by a case study on the Turkish electric market in which GenCo tries to find the optimal power generation investment portfolio that contains five various generation technologies alternatives, namely, hydropower, wind, conventional and advanced combined-cycle natural gas, and steam (lignite) turbines. The results show that wind turbines with low marginal costs and steam turbines with high energy conversion efficiency are preferable, compared with hydroelectric power plant investments when the fuzziness in hydroelectric output exists (i.e., the expectation of increasing drought conditions as a result of climate change). Furthermore, the results indicate that the gas turbine investments were found to be the least preferable due to high gas prices in all scenarios.
Effects of High Ambient Temperature on Electric Vehicle Efficiency and Range: Case Study of Kuwait
Authors: Hamwi Hidab , Rushby Tom , Mahdy Mostafa , Bahaj AbuBakr S.
Published: April 2022

The use of electric vehicles (EVs) provides a pathway to sustainable transport, reducing emissions and contributing to net-zero carbon aspirations. However, consumer acceptance has been limited by travel range anxiety and a lack of knowledge about EV technology and its infrastructure. This is especially the case in hot and oil-rich areas such as Kuwait, where transport is predominantly fossil fuel-driven. Studying the effects of high ambient temperature on EV efficiency and range is essential to improve EV performance, increase the user base and promote early adoption to secure more environmental benefits. The ability to determine the energy consumption of electric vehicles (EVs) is not only vital to reduce travel range anxiety but also forms an important foundation for the spatial siting, operation and management of EV charging points in cities and towns. This research presents an analysis of data gathered from more than 3000 journeys of an EV in Kuwait representing typical vehicle usage. The average energy intensity and consumption of the car/kilometre travelled were calculated for each journey, along with ambient temperature measured by the vehicle. The analysis indicates that energy intensity reaches a minimum at a starting temperature between 22 °C and 23 °C. Energy intensity rises with decreasing temperature below this point and with increasing temperature above this point. The results show that many vehicle journeys started with high temperatures, with about half of journeys starting at 30 °C or above and approximately a quarter at 40 °C or above. Fitting a model to the empirical data for trip starting temperature and energy intensity, average efficiency is impacted at high car temperatures, with energy intensity modelled at 30 °C and 40 °C to be higher by 6% and 22%, respectively. These findings have implications for vehicle range, EV charging infrastructure and car storage and parking provision.
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Biomass Supply Chains: The Case of the Canadian Wood Pellet Industry
Authors: Gagnon Bruno , MacDonald Heather , Hope Emily , Blair Margaret Jean , McKenney Daniel W.
Published: April 2022

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted global economic activity in all sectors, including forest industries. Changes in demand for forest products in North America over the course of the pandemic have affected both primary processors and downstream industries reliant on residues, including wood pellet producers. Wood pellets have become an internationally traded good, mostly as a substitute for coal in electricity generation, with a significant proportion of the global supply coming from Canadian producers. To determine the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Canadian wood pellet industry, economic and market data were evaluated, in parallel with a survey of Canadian manufacturers on their experiences during the first three waves of the pandemic (March 2020 to September 2021). Overall, the impact of the pandemic on the Canadian wood pellet industry was relatively small, as prices, exports, and production remained stable. Survey respondents noted some negative impacts, mostly in the first months of the pandemic, but the quick recovery of lumber production helped to reduce the impact on wood pellet producers and ensured a stable feedstock supply. The pandemic did exacerbate certain pre-existing issues, such as access to transportation services and labour availability, which were still a concern for the industry at the end of the third wave in Canada. These results suggest that the Canadian wood pellet industry was resilient to disruptions caused by the pandemic and was able to manage the negative effects it faced. This is likely because of the integrated nature of the forest sector, the industry’s reliance on long-term supply contracts, and feedstock flexibility, in addition to producers and end-users both being providers of essential services.
Research on Energy Saving of PHEV Air Conditioning System Based on Reducing Air Backflow in Underhood
Authors: Wu Haibo , Tang Xingwang , Xu Sichuan , Zhou Jiangbin
Published: April 2022

A novel method characterizing the air backflow of the underhood in order to improve the thermal efficiency of the air conditioning system (ACS) and reduce the energy consumption of PHEV is proposed in this paper. In addition, a 1D model for analyzing air backflow occurring in the underhood is established and a CFD method for calculating air backflow rate and distribution is proposed. It is found that the decrease in the air backflow rate of the underhood helps to improve the refrigeration capacity of the ACS, and when the backflow ratio cannot be reduced below 10%, the air backflow should be distributed as evenly as possible at the front end of the condenser. Moreover, in order to eliminate the impact of backflow on the underhood of PHEV, the gap between the radiator and the bracket is sealed and the gap around the air guide is reduced. Compared with the original structure, the backflow rate of the optimized structure is reduced from 32.7% to 9.3% and the cabin temperature can be reduced by 3–5 °C.
Investigation of the Effect of Nozzle on Underwater Detonation Shock Wave and Bubble Pulsation
Authors: Wang Chuanwei , Li Ning , Huang Xiaolong , Weng Chunsheng
Published: April 2022

The subject of a gas jet generated by underwater detonation is an important issue in the field of underwater propulsion. The experimental system of underwater detonation is established, which utilizes a high-speed camera to record the morphological changes in bubbles and various pressure sensors to measure the flow field pressure. The effect of nozzles and the pressure of the flow field are analyzed thoroughly. The comparison of the bubble and field pressure shows that the shrinking nozzle increases the peak pressure of the transmitted shock wave generated by underwater detonation compared with that of the straight nozzle. Simultaneously, the water–air mixing phenomenon caused by the gas jet is enhanced. Under the influence of the reflected shock wave and the converging angle of the nozzle, the pulsation process of the bubble is inhibited enormously, which results in the bubble energy being substantially below that of the straight nozzle. The bubble pulsation period is 24.2 ms when the shrinking nozzle is installed, and the pressure of the bubble pulsation is quite small, only 9.8 kPa. On the contrary, the expansion angle increases the velocity of the gas jet, suppressing the water–gas mixing phenomenon while enhancing the bubble pulsation process. The bubble pulsation period is 33.0 ms when the expanding nozzle is equipped, which is larger than the 31.2 ms of the straight nozzle and the bubble pulsation pressure is higher, at 26.1 kPa. Although the bubble energy is increased when the expanding nozzle is installed, thus generating a higher pulsation pressure, the peak pressure and direction of the shock wave are changed in the water.
Power Quality of Renewable Energy Source Systems: A New Paradigm of Electrical Grids
Authors: Baptista José , Faria Pedro , Canizes Bruno , Pinto Tiago
Published: April 2022

The power quality delivered by the distribution companies to consumers has always been a relevant issue, especially to industrial consumers, where power quality is directly related to productivity [...]
Quantifying of Vision through Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal Double-Glazed Window
Authors: Lami Mohammed , Al-naemi Faris , Alrashidi Hameed , Issa Walid
Published: April 2022

The visual linking of a building’s occupants with the outside views is a basic property of windows. However, vision through windows is not yet a metricized factor. The previous research employs a human survey methods to assess the vision through conventional windows. The recently fabricated smart films add a changeable visual transparency feature to the windows. The varied operating transparency challenges the evaluation of vision. Therefore, surveying human preferences is no longer a feasible approach for smart windows. This paper proposes an image-processing-based approach to quantify the vision quality through smart windows. The proposed method was experimentally applied to a polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) double-glazed window. The system instantaneously determines the available contrast band of the scenes seen through the window. The system adjusts the excitation of the PDLC film to maintain a desired vision level within the determined vision band. A preferred vision ratio (PVR) is proposed to meet the requirements of occupant comfort. The impact of the PVR on vision quality, solar heat gain, and daylight performance was investigated experimentally. The results show that the system can determine the available vision comfort band during daytime considering different occupant requirements.
Recent Advances in Renewable Energy and Clean Energy
Authors: Ghosh Aritra
Published: April 2022

Energy generation from conventional energy sources, such as oil, coal, and gas, produces adverse environmental pollutants, e [...]
Experimental Investigation of Multiple Fry Waste Soya Bean Oil in an Agricultural CI Engine
Authors: Mandal Adhirath , Cho HaengMuk , Chauhan Bhupendra Singh
Published: April 2022

Meeting the growing energy demand for sustainability and environmental friendly fuels is a continuous process. Several oxygenated fuels were tried and tested according to the availability depending upon the geographical locations to find a solution against rapidly depleting fossil fuels (gasoline and diesel). In the present investigation, the viability of waste fry cooking oil converted into biodiesel fuel and its various physiocochemical properties was evaluated. In this regard, the performance and emission of a CI engine was compared using biodiesel fuel and mineral diesel fuel. Experimental research was performed on a single-cylinder agricultural CI engine with indirect injection, and biodiesel fuel was used with three different types of fry oils. The fry oil was classified as one-time fry, two-time fry, and three-time fry. Engine efficiency and tail pipe emission attributes were evaluated for the three different fuels. The different fuel blends used for the experiment were B60 and B80 and were tested at full load, at different engine speed (rpm). It was found that brake specific fuel consumption (BSFC) increased with increasing speed, whereas brake thermal efficiency reduced with increasing engine speed. Brake thermal efficiency (BTE) reduces with increase in the engine speed because of a poor air–fuel ratio at high speed. CO2 emission is higher because of the higher density and heating value of the biodiesel fuel, which depends on the blending ratio and the frying time of the fuel. It was also encountered that NOx emission was higher for maximum test fuels except one-time fry waste cooking oil biodiesel at 60% blend, which showed lower NOx than diesel fuel. Smoke opacity in both the blends have a decreasing trend with increasing speed and are lower than pure diesel. The 1FWCOB (fry waste cooking oil biodiesel), 2FWCOB, and 3FWCOB fuel exhaust gas temperature (EGT) is reduced because of higher cetane number and lower heating value. Based on the result obtained, it was concluded that by increasing the frying time of the soya bean waste cooking biodiesel, the emission characteristics and engine performance were affected. The need for sustainable fuel is important, thus the use of waste fry cooking oil is a potential replacement for diesel.
Enhanced Salp Swarm Algorithm for Multimodal Optimization and Fuzzy Based Grid Frequency Controller Design
Authors: Nayak Smrutiranjan , Kar Sanjeeb Kumar , Dash Subhransu Sekhar , Vishnuram Pradeep , Thanikanti Sudhakar Babu , Nastasi Benedetto
Published: April 2022

In the present study, an Enhanced SSA (ESSA) has been proposed where the parameter of the SSA technique, which balances the exploration and exploitation phases, has been modified. Additionally, the variable scaling factor is engaged to regulate the salp’s position during the search procedure to minimize the random movement of salps. To demonstrate the effectiveness of the enhanced SSA (ESSA), a set of multimodal test functions are engaged. The statistical outcomes demonstrate that ESSA profits from local optima evasion and quick convergence speed, which aids the proposed ESSA algorithm to outclass the standard SSA and other recent algorithms. The fair analysis displays that ESSA delivers very promising results and outclass current methods. Next, frequency control of power systems is executed by designing a Combined Fuzzy PID (CFPID) controller with the projected ESSA method. Next, a Partially Distributed CFPID (PD-CFPID) controller is designed for a distributed power system (DPS). It is shown that the ESSA method outclasses the SSA method in engineering problems. It is also noted that the ESSA-based PD-CFPID scheme has become more operative in monitoring the frequency than similar structured centralized fuzzy PID (CFPID) as well as PID controller. Finally, the outcomes of the PD-CFPID controller are equated with CFPID and PID for various uncertain situations to validate the benefit of the proposed control approach.
Prospect of SnO2 Electron Transport Layer Deposited by Ultrasonic Spraying
Authors: Long Wu , He Aoxi , Xie Shenghui , Yang Xiutao , Wu Lili
Published: April 2022

The SnO2 electron transport layer (ETL) has been characterized as being excellent in optical and electrical properties, ensuring its indispensable role in perovskite solar cells (PSCs). In this work, SnO2 films were prepared using two approaches, namely, the ultrasonic spraying method and the traditional spin-coating, where the different properties in optical and electrical performance of SnO2 films from two methods were analyzed by UV–Vis, XRD, AFM, and XPS. Results indicate that the optical band gaps of the sprayed and the spin-coated film are 3.83 eV and 3.77 eV, respectively. The sprayed SnO2 film has relatively low surface roughness according to the AFM. XPS spectra show that the sprayed SnO2 film has a higher proportion of Sn2+ and thus corresponds to higher carrier concentration than spin-coated one. Hall effect measurement demonstrates that the carrier concentration of the sprayed film is 1.0 × 1014 cm−3, which is slightly higher than that of the spin-coated film. In addition, the best PCSs efficiencies prepared by sprayed and spin-coated SnO2 films are 18.3% and 17.5%, respectively. This work suggests that the ultrasonic spraying method has greater development potential in the field of flexible perovskite cells due to its feasibility of large-area deposition.
Quantifying Compressed Air Leakage through Non-Intrusive Load Monitoring Techniques in the Context of Energy Audits
Authors: Martin Nascimento Gustavo Felipe , Wurtz Frédéric , Kuo-Peng Patrick , Delinchant Benoit , Jhoe Batistela Nelson
Published: April 2022

Following the recent European directives highlighting the need to increase energy efficiency in the European Union, this work aims to show the possibility of using Non-Intrusive Load Monitoring (NILM) techniques to improve energy audits by estimating the compressed air leakage from a dataset of a tertiary building. The first step towards the reduction of energy consumption is performing an energy audit, in which a detailed analysis of the energy performance is executed. This analysis usually uses on-site measured data by the auditors. However, the time available for these measurements is limited and may not include some modes of operation. One example of that is the quantification of compressed air leaks. This task can be performed by estimating the flow rate during a no compressed air consumption period. However, these periods may not coincide with the auditors’ original schedule. This problem could be addressed by using historical data. Nevertheless, historical data from energy management systems usually are only available for global consumption, and rarely for individual appliances. In this context, a NILM approach would be helpful to enhance energy audits carrying analysis of modes of operation not included in the on-site measurements. In this paper, the leaks are firstly quantified using measurements mostly for benchmarking purposes. The results suggested 62% of leaks in the study case. In a second step, the Factorial Hidden Markov Model (FHMM) was applied to the data. Five typical working days, simulating the context of an energy audit, were used as training data, while one week during vacation time, with no compressed air consumption, was used to quantify the leaks. The results show that it was possible, in the context of an energy audit, to estimate the compressed air leakage using NILM techniques in this dataset with less than a 1% difference when compared to the estimation made with actual measurement. Finally, savings estimations considering the elimination of the leaks were performed, varying between 10% and 100% of the leakage repair. Considering the ideal scenario of complete leaks elimination, the savings would represent around 44% in the compressed air system and 4.75% of the current annual global consumption.
Morphometrics, Distribution, and DNA Barcoding: An Integrative Identification Approach to the Genus Odontotermes (Termitidae: Blattodea) of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
Authors: Zaman Maid , Khan Imtiaz Ali , Schmidt Suzanne , Murphy Robert , Poulsen Michael
Published: April 2022

The neglected area of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (Pakistan: Oriental region), consisting of Buner, Haripur, and Swabi districts, were surveyed for termites during the summer of 2016–2019 for identification and assessment of the distribution of colonies. Collections were made either directly from visible galleries or using traps with ethanol. Soldiers were used for morphometric identification and DNA extraction. Morphometric identification was carried out based on the available literature through measurements of 20 characters/indices and evaluating species differences statistically. Based on these characteristics, we generated a key and a distribution map of the genus Odontotermes for the study area. This is the first record of Odontotermes assmuthi and Odontotermes obesus in these three districts, the first record of Odontotermes parvidens for the Buner and Swabi districts, and the first record of Odontotermes horai for Haripur. We subsequently used barcoding of the mtDNA COII to verify species assignments of colonies and for phylogenetic analyses using Neighbor-Joining and Maximum Likelihood analyses.
Correlation Analysis of Microbiota and Volatile Flavor Compounds of Caishiji Soybean Paste
Authors: Cai Jing , Han Yueting , Wu Wei , Wu Xuefeng , Mu Dongdong , Jiang Shaotong , Li Xingjiang
Published: April 2022

Microbial diversity plays a crucial part in the fermentation of Caishiji soybean paste (CSP). In the current study, the microbiota and volatile flavor compounds (VFCs) in CSP were identified through Illumina MiSeq sequencing and headspace gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Five bacterial (Bacillus, Tetragenococcus, Salinivibrio, Halomonas, and Staphylococcus) and four fungal genera (Aspergillus, Debaryomyces, Nigrospora, and Curvularia) were revealed as dominant among the entire microbiome of CSP. More than 70 VFCs, including 8 acids, 15 esters, 8 alcohols, 14 aldehydes, 4 ketones, 5 phenols, and 20 miscellaneous VFCs were detected during the fermentation process. A total of 12 kinds of VFCs were identified in the odor activity value (OAV) analysis. The results of the correlation analysis between microbiota and VFCs indicated that Bacillus, Tetragenococcus, Staphylococcus, and Aspergillus were the main microbiota affecting the flavor of CSP. These results may serve as a reference for enhancing the quality of CSP.
Housing Conditions and a Challenge with Lipopolysaccharide on the Day of Estrus Can Influence Gene Expression of the Corpus Luteum in Gilts
Authors: Nery da Silva Arthur , Alves Luana , Osowski Germana Vizzotto , Sabei Leandro , Ferraz Priscila Assis , Pugliesi Guilherme , Marques Mariana Groke , Zanella Ricardo , Zanella Adroaldo José
Published: April 2022

The corpus luteum (CL) is a temporary endocrine gland that plays a decisive role in the reproductive physiology of gilts. Recently, it has been suggested that exogenous factors may compromise the normal functioning of the CL. In the present study, we aimed to understand to what extent an acute and systemic challenge with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) on the day of estrus could compromise gene expression of gilts’ CLs housed in different welfare conditions. For this, we housed 42 gilts in three different housing systems: crates, indoor group pens, and outdoor housing. Then, we challenged six females from each group with LPS and eight with saline (SAL) on the day of estrus. After slaughtering the gilts on the fifth day after the challenge, ovaries were collected for gene expression analysis by RT-qPCR. Housing system and LPS challenge did not have a significant interaction for any genes evaluated; thus, their effects were studied separately. We identified significant (p < 0.05) downregulation of the angiogenic genes VEGF and FTL1 among LPS-challenged animals. Meanwhile, we also observed upregulation of HSD3B1 gene among LPS-challenged animals. We found that STAR and LHCGR genes were differentially expressed depending on the housing system, which indicates that the environment may affect adaptation capabilities. Our results indicate that an acute health challenge on the estrus day alters CL gene expression; however, the role of the housing system remains uncertain.
Class I MHC Polymorphisms Associated with Type 2 Diabetes in the Mexican Population
Authors: Mendoza-Ramírez Paola , López-Olaiz Mildred Alejandra , Morales-Fernández Adriana Lizeth , Flores-Echiveste María Isabel , de Jesus Casillas-Navarro Antonio , Pérez-Rodríguez Marco Andrés , de Jesús Orozco-Luna Felipe , Cortés-Romero Celso , Zuñiga Laura Yareni , Sanchez Parada María Guadalupe , Hernandez-Ortega Luis Daniel , Mercado-Sesma Arieh Roldán , Baptista-Rosas Raúl C.
Published: April 2022

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) has been linked to the expression of Human Leukocyte Antigens, principally to the Major Histocompatibility Complex Class II, with only scarce reports of Major Histocompatibility Complex Class I in specific populations. The objective of the present work was to explore the presence of polymorphisms in the MHC Class I related to T2D in the Mexican population using the Genome-Wide Association Studies Slim Initiative in Genomic Medicine of the Americas (GWAS SIGMA) database. This database contains information on 3848 Mexican individuals with T2D and 4366 control individuals from the same population without a clinical or hereditary history of the disease. The searching criteria considered a p-value of <0.005 and an odds ratio (OR) of >1.0. Ten novel, statistically significant nucleotide variants were identified: four polymorphisms associated with HLA-A (A*03:01:01:01) and six with HLA-C (C*01:02:01:01). These alleles have a high prevalence in Latin American populations and could potentially be associated with autoimmunity mechanisms related to the development of T2D complications.
A Brief History of Drosophila (Female) Meiosis
Authors: Fellmeth Jessica E. , McKim Kim S.
Published: April 2022

Drosophila has been a model system for meiosis since the discovery of nondisjunction. Subsequent studies have determined that crossing over is required for chromosome segregation, and identified proteins required for the pairing of chromosomes, initiating meiotic recombination, producing crossover events, and building a spindle to segregate the chromosomes. With a variety of genetic and cytological tools, Drosophila remains a model organism for the study of meiosis. This review focusses on meiosis in females because in male meiosis, the use of chiasmata to link homologous chromosomes has been replaced by a recombination-independent mechanism. Drosophila oocytes are also a good model for mammalian meiosis because of biological similarities such as long pauses between meiotic stages and the absence of centrosomes during the meiotic divisions.
12q21 Interstitial Deletions: Seven New Syndromic Cases Detected by Array-CGH and Review of the Literature
Authors: Recalcati Maria Paola , Catusi Ilaria , Garzo Maria , Redaelli Serena , Massimello Marta , Maitz Silvia Beatrice , Gentile Mattia , Ponzi Emanuela , Orsini Paola , Zilio Anna , Montaldi Annamaria , Calò Annapaola , Capra Anna Paola , Briuglia Silvana , La Rosa Maria Angela , Grillo Lucia , Romano Corrado , Bianca Sebastiano , Malacarne Michela , Busè Martina , Piccione Maria , Larizza Lidia
Published: April 2022

Interstitial deletions of the long arm of chromosome 12 are rare, with a dozen patients carrying a deletion in 12q21 being reported. Recently a critical region (CR) has been delimited and could be responsible for the more commonly described clinical features, such as developmental delay/intellectual disability, congenital genitourinary and brain malformations. Other, less frequent, clinical signs do not seem to be correlated to the proposed CR. We present seven new patients harboring non-recurrent deletions ranging from 1 to 18.5 Mb differentially scattered across 12q21. Alongside more common clinical signs, some patients have rarer features such as heart defects, hearing loss, hypotonia and dysmorphisms. The correlation of haploinsufficiency of genes outside the CR to specific signs contributes to our knowledge of the effect of the deletion of this gene-poor region of chromosome 12q. This work underlines the still important role of copy number variations in the diagnostic setting of syndromic patients and the positive reflection on management and family genetic counseling.
Evaluation of Morphological, Qualitative, and Metabolomic Traits during Fruit Ripening in Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.)
Authors: Cirillo Aurora , Magri Anna , Scognamiglio Monica , D’Abrosca Brigida , Fiorentino Antonio , Petriccione Milena , Di Vaio Claudio
Published: April 2022

Pomegranate is characterized by several local accessions and cultivars widespread across different countries, each with different bio-agronomic features. Physiological and biochemical processes occur during fruit ripening, leading to changes in size, color, and flavor, improving the fruit’s acceptability for the consumer. The aim of this study was to evaluate the changes in physico-chemical and nutritional traits of three Italian germplasm genotypes (‘Santa Lucia’, ‘Di Benedetto’, and ‘Arborea’) to determine the differences for these parameters both within the same cultivar during four ripening stages, and between individual cultivars in the same ripening stage. Morphological traits and fruit pigmentation showed variation during the ripening process, with higher values at the final stage. The highest fruit weight was detected in ‘Di Benedetto’ (392.19 g), while ‘Arborea’ displayed high juice content. Qualitative traits, such as soluble solids, increased until stage III, while titratable acidity values decreased during the ripening stage in ‘Di Benedetto’ and ‘Arborea’. In all three accessions, a reduction in the total polyphenols up to the III ripening stage was observed. Metabolomic analyses using 1H-NMR (proton nuclear magnetic resonance) showed a variation in citric acid and sugar content according to the ripening stage and accession considered. This study found high variability in nutraceutical traits among the analyzed pomegranates. The three pomegranate genotypes showed significant differences in qualitative and metabolomic characteristics. Principal component analysis revealed the main traits that contribute to the positive and negative correlations with PC1 and PC2, highlighting the great variability in the investigated pomegranate genotypes.
In Patients with Grade I and II Ankle Sprains, Dynamic Taping Seems to Be Helpful during Certain Tasks, Exercises and Tests in Selected Phases of the Rehabilitation Process: A Preliminary Report
Authors: Pawik Łukasz , Pawik Malwina , Wysoczańska Emilia , Schabowska Aleksandra , Morasiewicz Piotr , Fink-Lwow Felicja
Published: April 2022

We aimed to investigate changes in postural stability on a stable surface after the application of dynamic tape for patients with inversion ankle sprains. This study enrolled 30 patients (age 25.5 ± 8.0 years) with grade I and II ankle sprains, which occurred 7–21 days before enrolment. Postural stability (balance, coordination, feedback) was assessed before and after the application of dynamic tape using a stabilographic platform. Three 32-s exercises were performed on the stabilographic platform, one with eyes open, one with eyes closed and one with visual feedback. After the application of dynamic tape, an improvement was observed in terms of the mean radius of sway (4.2 ± 1.3 mm vs. 3.4 ± 0.9 mm; p = 0.012) and coordination (48.8 ± 19.2% vs. 59.3 ± 5.8%; p = 0.021). Selected balance parameters did not improve significantly in the tests with open and closed eyes. Asymmetric load improved for all tests, but significant differences were only observed with eyes closed (34.9 ± 24.4 vs. 41.7 ± 30.5; p < 0.01). We concluded that the use of dynamic tape after an ankle sprain significantly improved balance and coordination on a stable surface. The benefits were shown in terms of a significant improvement in the asymmetric load of the injured limb in comparison to the healthy limb during the test with closed eyes and a considerable improvement in the asymmetric load that was evaluated with visual feedback on a stable surface.
An Update on the Surveillance of Livestock Diseases and Antimicrobial Use in Sierra Leone in 2021—An Operational Research Study
Authors: Bangura (Turay) Fatmata Isatu , Leno Amara , Hann Katrina , Timire Collins , Nair Divya , Bah Mohamed Alpha , Gborie Sahr Raymond , Satyanarayana Srinath , Edwards Jeffrey Karl , Davtyan Hayk , Kamara Sorie Mohamed , Jalloh Amadu Tejan , Sellu-Sallu David , Kanu Joseph Sam , Johnson Raymonda , Nantima Noelina
Published: April 2022

In Sierra Leone, in 2020, a study by the Livestock and Veterinary Services Division (Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry) on the surveillance system of animal diseases and antimicrobial use found poor reporting. Of the expected weekly districts reports, <1% were received and only three of the 15 districts had submitted reports occasionally between 2016 and 2019. Following this, staff-capacity-building on reporting was undertaken. In 2021, we reassessed the improvement in reporting and used the reports to describe livestock diseases and antimicrobials utilized in their treatment. Between March and October 2021, 88% of expected weekly reports from all 15 districts were received. There were minor deficiencies in completeness and consistency in the terminology used for reporting animal disease and antimicrobials. Available reports showed that 25% of the livestock had an infectious disease, and a quarter of the sick animals had received an antimicrobial drug. Most animals received antimicrobials belonging to World Organization for Animal Health’s “veterinary critically important” category (77%) and World Health Organization’s “critically” (17%) and “highly important” (60%) categories for human health. These indicate a significant improvement in the animal health surveillance system and highlight the need for enhanced antimicrobial stewardship to prevent misuse of antimicrobials that are significant in animal and human health.
A Circular Economy Approach to Restoring Soil Substrate Ameliorated by Sewage Sludge with Amendments
Authors: Halecki Wiktor , López-Hernández Nuria Aide , Koźmińska Aleksandra , Ciarkowska Krystyna , Klatka Sławomir
Published: April 2022

This study examined the use of an artificial soil substrate in a mine waste reclamation area and its effect on plant metabolic functions. Research was conducted by determining the relationship between the plants’ biochemical features and the properties of plant growth medium derived from post-flotation coal waste, sewage sludge, crushed stone and fly ash on the surface of the mine waste disposal area. Trees and shrubs were established on the material and allowed to grow for eight years. The study determined that the applied plants and the naturally occurring Taraxacum officinale were suitable for physio-biochemical assessment, identification of derelict areas and reclamation purposes. An evaluation of a soil substrate applied to post-mining areas indicated that it was beneficial for plant growth since it activated the metabolic functions of herbaceous plants, shrubs, and trees. The study showed that soil substrate can be targeted to improve plant stress tolerance to potentially toxic elements (PTEs). These data suggest the potential for growth and slower susceptible response to Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb and Zn. It is possible that the constructed soil-substitute substrate (biosolid material) would be an effective reclamation treatment in areas where natural soil materials are polluted by PTEs. This observation may reflect a more efficient use of soil substrate released from the cycling of organic biogene pools, in accordance with the circular economy approach. In further studies related to land reclamation using sewage sludge amendments, it would be necessary to extend the research to other stress factors, such as salinity or water deficiency.
Amigos de Fibro (Fibro Friends): Validation of an Educational Program to Promote Health in Fibromyalgia
Authors: Antunes Mateus Dias , Schmitt Ana Carolina Basso , Marques Amélia Pasqual
Published: April 2022

Health education is one of the main items to enable the promotion of health for individuals with fibromyalgia (FM) in Primary Health Care (PHC) in Brazil. The purpose of this study was to validate a multidisciplinary educational health promotion program called Amigos de Fibro (Fibro Friends) for individuals with FM. Methodological research involving 23 health professionals (expert judges) and 45 individuals with FM (target audience) used an instrument to assess the objectives, proposed themes and initiatives, relevance, writing style, and structure of the program through the Delphi technique. The content validity index (CVI) ≥ 0.78 and coefficient kappa ≥ 0.61 were used for data analysis. All 25 items evaluated in both groups presented considerable minimum CVI by CVI and the kappa coefficient. In the global evaluation of Amigos de Fibro, the CVI of the specialist judges was 0.90, while the values of the target audience judges were 0.95. The kappa coefficient of the expert judges was 0.90 and that of the target audience judges was 0.85. Amigos de Fibro, a light technology in health, was considered with adequate content validity and internal consistency and is, therefore, valid in the use by health professionals with the target audience in PHC, making it possible for them to act as health-promoting agents.
Expression of VEGF, EGF, and Their Receptors in Squamous Esophageal Mucosa, with Correlations to Histological Findings and Endoscopic Minimal Changes, in Patients with Different GERD Phenotypes
Authors: Wasielica-Berger Justyna , Rogalski Paweł , Świdnicka-Siergiejko Agnieszka , Pryczynicz Anna , Kiśluk Joanna , Daniluk Jarosław , Antonowicz Stefania , Maślach Dominik , Krzyżak Michalina , Dąbrowski Andrzej
Published: April 2022

Background: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) may present as nonerosive reflux disease (NERD), erosive esophagitis (EE), or be complicated by Barrett’s esophagus (BE). The explanation as to what determines the phenotype of GERD is awaited. Therefore, we assessed the correlation between the growth factors expression and endoscopic as histologic findings in GERD patients. Methods: The squamous esophageal epithelium of 50 patients (20-NERD, 7-EE, 15-BE, 8 controls) was examined by: (1) magnification endoscopy with evaluation of minimal GERD changes such as: microerosions, white spots, palisade blood vessels visibility, and intrapapillary capillary loops (IPCLs) appearance, (2) histology, (3) immunohistochemistry with evaluation of the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), epidermal growth factor (EGF), and their receptors (VEGFR and EGFR). Results: The expression of VEGF, but not VEGFR, EGF, and EGFR, was significantly increased in EE patients compared to NERD patients and controls. VEGF levels correlated significantly with the presence of white spots, but not with other minimal endoscopic and histologic features. The EGFR expression correlated positively with basal cell hyperplasia and enlarged IPCLs. Conclusions: Our findings suggest a correlation between growth factors expression and findings in conventional endoscopy, formation of endoscopic minimal changes, and histologic lesions.
Effect of Tilt-in-Space and Reclining Angles of Wheelchairs on Normal Force and Shear Force in the Gluteal Region
Authors: Koda Hitoshi , Okada Yohei , Fukumoto Takahiko , Morioka Shu
Published: April 2022

Healthcare workers need to educate patients regarding proper sitting positions to prevent pressure injuries in the elderly and disabled. The purpose of this study was to investigate the differences in normal and shear force in the gluteal region using the combination of tilt-in-space and reclining functions of wheelchairs. Twelve healthy subjects were recruited. Protocols for 15 wheelchair tilt-in-space and reclining angles, including three reclining angles (0°, 10°, and 20°) and five tilt-in-space (0°, 5°, 10°, 15°, and 20°), were randomly assigned. To measure the amount of normal and shear force applied to the gluteal region while sitting on a wheelchair, a force plate was placed on the seat to measure the seat reaction force. For statistical analysis, a two-factor analysis of variance, with tilt-in-space and reclining, was performed for each normal and shear force. The normal force showed a significant decrease with increased reclining angle. For the shear force combined with sagittal and lateral components, the 10° tilt-in-space showed a significant decrease compared to other conditions. The combination of 20° reclining and 10° tilt-in-space angles may decrease both normal and shear force in the gluteal region while sitting. These findings may help wheelchair-dependent individuals avoid pressure injuries.
Delayed Neurological Sequelae Successfully Treated with Adjuvant, Prolonged Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy: Review and Case Report
Authors: Martani Luca , Giovanniello Andrea , Bosco Gerardo , Cantadori Luca , Calissi Francesca , Furfaro Dany , Pedrazzini Massimo , Vaschetto Rosanna , Camporesi Enrico Mario , Paganini Matteo
Published: April 2022

Carbon Monoxide (CO) intoxication is still a leading cause of mortality and morbidity in many countries. Due to the problematic detection in the environment and subtle symptoms, CO intoxication usually goes unrecognized, and both normobaric and hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) treatments are frequently administered with delay. Current knowledge is mainly focused on acute intoxication, while Delayed Neurological Sequelae (DNS) are neglected, especially their treatment. This work details the cases of two patients presenting a few weeks after CO intoxication with severe neurological impairment and a characteristic diffused demyelination at the brain magnetic resonance imaging, posing the diagnosis of DNS. After prolonged treatment with hyperbaric oxygen, combined with intravenous corticosteroids and rehabilitation, the clinical and radiological features of DNS disappeared, and the patients’ neurological status returned to normal. Such rare cases should reinforce a thorough clinical follow-up for CO intoxication victims and promote high-quality studies.
The Role of Anti-PLA2R and Anti-THSD7A Antibodies in the Pathogenesis and Diagnostics of Primary Membranous Nephropathy: A Review of Current Knowledge for Clinical Practice
Authors: Smarz-Widelska Iwona , Chojęta Dariusz , Kozioł Małgorzata M.
Published: April 2022

Primary membranous nephropathy (PMN) is considered a major cause of nephrotic syndrome. The discovery of circulating autoantibodies directed against glomerular podocytes helped to classify them as autoimmune diseases. Over the past years, there has been an increasing significance of anti-Phospholipase A2 Receptor (anti-PLA2R), which has been detected in 70–80% of PMN cases, and relevance of anti-Thrombospondin type I domain-containing 7A (anti-THSD7A) even though they are present in 2–5% of patients. The results of clinical and experimental studies indicate that these antibodies are pathogenic. It radically changed the diagnostic and therapeutic approach. Measurement of antibody titers in the serum seems to be a valuable tool for identifying PMN and for the assessment of disease activity. By monitoring pathogenic antibodies levels rather than proteinuria or reduced glomerular filtration rate (GFR) as an indicator of glomerular disease, physicians would easier divide patients into those with active and inactive PMN disease and decide about their therapy. The aim of this review is to evaluate scientific evidence about the role of autoantibodies, namely anti-PLA2R and anti-THSD7A, as PMN biomarkers. The present manuscript focuses on PMN pathogenesis and key data of diagnosis, monitoring of the disease, and treatment strategies that are currently being used in clinical practice.