bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Systematic Review of the Clinical Diagnosis of Transient Hypogammaglobulinemia of Infancy
Authors: Justiz-Vaillant Angel A. , Hoyte Trudee , Davis Nikao , Deonarinesingh Candice , De Silva Amir , Dhanpaul Dylan , Dookhoo Chloe , Doorpat Justin , Dopson Alexei , Durgapersad Joash , Palmer Clovis , Asin-Milan Odalis , Williams-Persad Arlene Faye-Ann , Arozarena-Fundora Rodolfo
Published: August 2023

Transient hypogammaglobulinemia of infancy (THI) is a primary immunodeficiency caused by a temporary decline in serum immunoglobulin G (IgG) levels greater than two standard deviations below the mean age-specific reference values in infants between 5 and 24 months of age. Preterm infants are particularly susceptible to THI, as IgG is only transferred across the placenta from mother to infant during the third trimester of pregnancy. This study aimed to conduct a systematic review of the diagnostic criteria for transient hypogammaglobulinemia of infancy. Systematic review: Three electronic databases (PubMed, MEDLINE, and Google Scholar) were manually searched from September 2021 to April 2022. Abstracts were screened to assess their fit to the inclusion criteria. Data were extracted from the selected studies using an adapted extraction tool (Cochrane). The studies were then assessed for bias using an assessment tool adapted from Cochrane. Of the 215 identified articles, 16 were eligible for examining the diagnostic criteria of THI. These studies were also assessed for bias in the six domains. A total of five studies (31%) had a low risk of bias, while four studies (25%) had a high risk of bias, and bias in the case of seven studies (44%) was unclear. We conclude that THI is only definitively diagnosed after abnormal IgG levels normalise. Hence, THI is not a benign condition, and monitoring for subsequent recurrent infections must be conducted. The diagnostic criteria should also include vaccine and isohaemagglutinin responses to differentiate THI from other immunological disorders in infants.
Firearm Deaths among Youth in the United States, 2007–2016
Authors: Trigylidas Theodore E. , Schnitzer Patricia G. , Dykstra Heather K. , Badolato Gia M. , McCarter Robert , Goyal Monika K. , Lichenstein Richard
Published: August 2023

We sought to compare risk factors contributing to unintentional, homicide, and suicide firearm deaths in children. We conducted a retrospective review of the National Fatality Review Case Reporting System. We included all firearm deaths among children aged 0–18 years occurring from 2007 to 2016. Descriptive analyses were performed on demographic, psychosocial, and firearm characteristics and their relationship to unintentional, homicide, and suicide deaths. Regression analyses were used to compare factors contributing to unintentional vs. intentional deaths. There were 6148 firearm deaths during the study period. The mean age was 14 years (SD ± 4 years), of which 81% were male and 41% were non-Hispanic White. The most common manners of death were homicide (57%), suicide (36%), and unintentional (7%). Over one-third of firearms were stored unlocked. Homicide deaths had a higher likelihood of occurring outside of the home setting (aOR 3.2, 95% CI 2.4–4.4) compared with unintentional deaths. Suicide deaths had a higher likelihood of occurring in homes with firearms that were stored locked (aOR 4.2, 95% CI 2.1–8.9) compared with unintentional deaths. Each manner of firearm death presents a unique set of psychosocial circumstances and challenges for preventive strategies. Unsafe firearm storage practices remain a central theme in contributing to the increased risk of youth firearm deaths.
The Effects of Sargassum horneri Extract and Fucoidan on Tear Hyposecretion and Ocular Surface Injury in Rats with Dry Eye Diseases
Authors: Park Su-Bin , Jung Woo Kwon , Yu Hwa Young , Kim Junghyun
Published: August 2023

Hyperosmotic stress caused by tear hyposection is a leading cause of dry eye disease. We investigated the prevention of dry eye disease in corneal epithelial cells and in rats that were induced to develop dry eye disease via unilateral excision of their exorbital lacrimal gland using Sargassum horneri extract (AB_SH) and its bioactive component fucoidan. Oral administration of AB_SH (250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg) and fucoidan (100 mg/kg) was conducted for 7 days. In order to measure tear secretion, phenol red thread tear tests were performed along with corneal irregularity measurements. The apoptotic injury in the cornea and the lacrimal gland was evaluated using TUNEL staining. AB_SH and fucoidan were shown to suppress apoptosis and the expression of apoptosis-related proteins in human corneal epithelial cells under hyperosmotic conditions. Oral administration of AB_SH and fucoidan attenuated tear hyposecretion and corneal irregularity in the lacrimal gland-excised rats. In addition, AB_SH and fucoidan also reduced apoptosis in the cornea and lacrimal gland. This study suggests that S. horneri extract and fucoidan can effectively ameliorate dry eye disease by suppressing the apoptosis of ocular tissues.
Comparative Study of the Synthesis of a Red Ceramic Pigment Using Microwave Heat Treatment
Authors: Miguel Eva , Paulo-Redondo Guillermo , Carda Castelló Juan Bautista , Nebot-Díaz Isaac
Published: August 2023

In this study, a new red ceramic pigment has been developed within a perovskite structure, and microwave heat treatments have been applied. Those red ceramic pigments within the YAlO3 system doped with chromium with the nominal composition Y0.98Al0.98Cr0.04O3 were synthesized by traditional routes and alternative methods like coprecipitation. Also, heat treatment has been studied comparing a traditional electric and microwave kiln. Different flux agents have been incorporated to improve the synthesis reaction. Prepared pigments have been characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) as having a predominant phase of perovskite structure, which is responsible for the red shade, and a minority garnet phase that causes more brown colorations. Studies by Ultraviolet-Visible spectroscopy gave rise to a series of absorption bands that indicate the presence of Cr(III) in the octahedral position corresponding to perovskite and Cr(IV) corresponding to garnet in both the octahedral and tetrahedral positions. The perovskite phase is favored with the use of flux mix, corroborating the UV-visible results and being more pronounced in traditional high temperature thermal treatments. The coprecipitation route has been studied to increase the reactivity of the particles given their nanometric size; however, this reactivity favors a greater appearance of undesirable garnet phases with both types of flux. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) micrographs offer information obtained from the secondary electrons of predominantly cubic crystalline phases with sizes between 1 µm and 2 µm in pigments synthesized via the traditional method and sizes less than 1µm together with the glassy phase in pigments synthesized via coprecipitation. Microwave thermal treatments have been studied, obtaining pigments with a majority structure of perovskite and garnet at lower temperatures and relatively short synthesis times. The feasibility of use in porous single-fired ceramic glazes has been studied, whose chromatic coordinates have been collected using an Ultraviolet-Visible Spectrophotometer based on the CIEL*a*b* system.
Axillary Management in Breast Cancer Patients Undergoing Upfront Surgery: Results from a Nationwide Survey on Behalf of the Clinical Oncology Breast Cancer Group (COBCG) and the Breast Cancer Study Group of the Italian Association of Radiotherapy and Clinical Oncology (AIRO)
Authors: De Rose Fiorenza , Colciago Riccardo , Lucidi Sara , La Rocca Eliana , Prisco Agnese , Bonzano Elisabetta , Meduri Bruno , De Santis Maria , Dicuonzo Samantha , Pasinetti Nadia , Palumbo Isabella , Meattini Icro , Franco Pierfrancesco
Published: August 2023

Background: We assessed the current practice concerning the axillary management of breast cancer (BC) patients undergoing upfront surgery among radiation oncologists (ROs) practising in Italy. Methods: An online survey via SurveyMonkey (including 21 questions) was distributed amongst ROs in Italy through personal contacts and the Italian Association for Radiotherapy and Clinical Oncology (AIRO) network from August to September 2022. We particularly focused on the emerging omission of axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) in the presence of 1–2 sentinel node-positive patients and the consequent change in the role of regional nodal irradiation (RNI). Results: A total of 101/195 (51% response rate) Italian Radiotherapy Cancer Care Centres answered the survey. With respect to patients with 1–2 sentinel node-positive, the relative proportion of respondents that offer patients ALND a) always, b) only in selected cases, and c) never was 37.6%, 60.4%, and 2.0%, respectively, with no significant geographical (North vs. Centre–South Italy; p = 0.92) or institutional (Academic vs. non-Academic; p = 0.49) differences. Radiation therapy indications varied widely in patients who did not undergo ALND. Among these, about a third of the respondents (17/56, 30.4%) stated that RNI was constantly performed. On the other hand, half of the respondents offered RNI in selected cases, stating that an unfavourable biologic tumour profile and extracapsular nodal extension were considered drivers of their decision. Conclusions: Results of the present survey show the variability of axillary management offered in clinical practice for BC patients undergoing conserving surgery upfront in Italy. Analysis of these attitudes may trigger the modification of some clinical approaches through multidisciplinary collaboration and create the background for future clinical investigations.
Beyond PACIFIC: Real-World Outcomes of Adjuvant Durvalumab According to Treatment Received and PD-L1 Expression
Authors: Denault Marie-Hélène , Feng Jamie , Kuang Shelley , Shokoohi Aria , Leung Bonnie , Liu Mitchell , Berthelet Eric , Laskin Janessa , Sun Sophie , Zhang Tina , Ho Cheryl , Melosky Barbara
Published: August 2023

Adjuvant durvalumab after chemoradiotherapy (CRT) is the standard of care for unresectable stage III non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). A post hoc exploratory analysis of PACIFIC revealed no OS benefit in the PD-L1 < 1% subgroup. This retrospective analysis assesses the real-world impact of durvalumab on OS according to PD-L1 tumor proportion score (TPS). Patients with stage III, unresectable NSCLC treated by CRT, with available PD-L1 TPS, from 1 March 2018 to 31 December 2020, at BC Cancer, British Columbia, Canada were included. Patients were divided into two groups, CRT + durvalumab and CRT alone. OS and PFS were analyzed in the PD-L1 ≥ 1% and <1% subgroups. A total of 134 patients were included in the CRT + durvalumab group and 117, in the CRT alone group. Median OS was 35.9 months in the CRT + durvalumab group and 27.4 months in the CRT alone group [HR 0.59 (95% CI 0.42–0.83), p = 0.003]. Durvalumab improved OS in the PD-L1 ≥ 1% [HR 0.53 (95% CI 0.34–0.81), p = 0.003, n = 175], but not in the <1% subgroup [HR 0.79 (95% CI 0.44–1.42), p = 0.4, n = 76]. This retrospective study demonstrates a statistically significant improvement in OS associated with durvalumab after CRT in PD-L1 ≥ 1%, but not PD-L1 < 1% NSCLC. Variables not accounted for may have biased the survival analysis. A prospective study would bring more insight.
Predictive Maintenance in Industry 4.0 for the SMEs: A Decision Support System Case Study Using Open-Source Software
Authors: Pejić Bach Mirjana , Topalović Amir , Krstić Živko , Ivec Arian
Published: August 2023

Predictive maintenance is one of the most important topics within the Industry 4.0 paradigm. We present a prototype decision support system (DSS) that collects and processes data from many sensors and uses machine learning and artificial intelligence algorithms to report deviations from the optimal process in a timely manner and correct them to the correct parameters directly or indirectly through operator intervention or self-correction. We propose to develop the DSS using open-source R packages because using open-source software such as R for predictive maintenance is beneficial for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) as it provides an affordable, adaptable, flexible, and tunable solution. We validate the DSS through a case study to show its application to SMEs that need to maintain industrial equipment in real time by leveraging IoT technologies and predictive maintenance of industrial cooling systems. The dataset used was simulated based on the information on the indicators measured as well as their ranges collected by in-depth interviews. The results show that the software provides predictions and actionable insights using collaborative filtering. Feedback is collected from SMEs in the manufacturing sector as potential system users. Positive feedback emphasized the advantages of employing open-source predictive maintenance tools, such as R, for SMEs, including cost savings, increased accuracy, community assistance, and program customization. However, SMEs have overwhelmingly voiced comments and concerns regarding the use of open-source R in their infrastructure development and daily operations.
Hydropower Unit Commitment Using a Genetic Algorithm with Dynamic Programming
Authors: Liu Shuangquan , Wang Pengcheng , Xu Zifan , Feng Zhipeng , Zhang Congtong , Wang Jinwen , Chen Cheng
Published: August 2023

This study presents a genetic algorithm integrated with dynamic programming to address the challenges of the hydropower unit commitment problem, which is a nonlinear, nonconvex, and discrete optimization, involving the hourly scheduling of generators in a hydropower system to maximize benefits and meet various constraints. The introduction of a progressive generating discharge allocation enhances the performance of dynamic programming in fitness evaluations, allowing for the fulfillment of various constraints, such as unit start-up times, shutdown/operating durations, and output ranges, thereby reducing complexity and improving the efficiency of the genetic algorithm. The application of the genetic algorithm with dynamic programming and progressive generating discharge allocation at the Manwan Hydropower Plant in Yunnan Province, China, showcases increased flexibility in outflow allocation, reducing spillages by 79%, and expanding high-efficiency zones by 43%.
On the Benefits of Active Aerodynamics on Energy Recuperation in Hybrid and Fully Electric Vehicles
Authors: Georgiev Petar , De Filippis Giovanni , Gruber Patrick , Sorniotti Aldo
Published: August 2023

In track-oriented road cars with electric powertrains, the ability to recuperate energy during track driving is significantly affected by the frequent interventions of the antilock braking system (ABS), which usually severely limits the regenerative torque level because of functional safety considerations. In high-performance vehicles, when controlling an active rear wing to maximize brake regeneration, it is unclear whether it is preferable to maximize drag by positioning the wing into its stall position, to maximize downforce, or to impose an intermediate aerodynamic setup. To maximize energy recuperation during braking from high speeds, this paper presents a novel integrated open-loop strategy to control: (i) the orientation of an active rear wing; (ii) the front-to-total brake force distribution; and (iii) the blending between regenerative and friction braking. For the case study wing and vehicle setup, the results show that the optimal wing positions for maximum regeneration and maximum deceleration coincide for most of the vehicle operating envelope. In fact, the wing position that maximizes drag by causing stall brings up to 37% increased energy recuperation over a passive wing during a braking maneuver from 300 km/h to 50 km/h by preventing the ABS intervention, despite achieving higher deceleration and a 2% shorter stopping distance. Furthermore, the maximum drag position also reduces the longitudinal tire slip power losses, which, for example, results in a 0.4% recuperated energy increase when braking from 300 km/h to 50 km/h in high tire–road friction conditions at a deceleration close to the limit of the vehicle with passive aerodynamics, i.e., without ABS interventions.
A ZnO Gas Sensor with an Abnormal Response to Hydrogen
Authors: Sun Hao , Yao Yachi , Yang Ruixuan , Yan Zhaonan , Cao Chen , Deng Yanwen , Wu Shengjiang , Liu Shuhai , Xu Qi , Qin Yong
Published: August 2023

ZnO is a commonly used material for hydrogen gas sensors. In this study, a ZnO nanofiber film with a diameter of approximately 60 nm was synthesized by the electrospinning method. Compared to previously reported ZnO hydrogen gas sensors, an abnormal phenomenon was observed here, where the resistance of the ZnO nanofiber film increased upon exposure to hydrogen gas in the temperature range from 210 °C to 330 °C. The physical mechanism of this phenomenon was explored through microstructure analysis and DFT simulation calculations that showed a total charge transfer of 0.65 e for the hydrogen molecule. This study can push forward the understanding of ZnO hydrogen sensing.
Modelling of Floor Heating and Cooling in Residential Districts
Authors: Kirschstein Xenia , Reber Joscha , Zeus Rouven , Schuster Miriam , Bishara Nadja
Published: August 2023

In this study, a method is proposed to expand the utilization of an existing calculation model for a floor heat exchanger (HX) from room scale to small district scale. The model, namely Trnsys Type 653, is typically employed for the simulation of single or simultaneously controlled parallel heating circuits. It uses a simplified approach to calculate the heat exchange between fluid and screed, taking the HX effectiveness as an input. In order to calculate the effectiveness based on the HX design, fluid properties and mass flow rate, a Python model is developed to be coupled with Type 653. The results are compared to a reference finite element model set up in COMSOL® and depend on the HX design. The highest deviations range from over 1 K for 35 min to over 2 K for 175 min, while the lowest deviations range from below 0.5 K to below 1 K. Furthermore, the simplification of the floor HX model is analyzed by summarizing heating circuits from single rooms to a whole flat and from single flats to a whole floor. This approach results in deviations of approximately 2 and 4%, respectively, in the overall transferred heat over longer periods of time, while the switch-on frequency of the controller in an exemplary day is halved. While further analysis is required, the described simplifications seem promising for detailed district simulations with relatively low computational effort.
The Role of Open-Source Software in the Energy Sector
Authors: Klimt Jonathan , Eiling Niklas , Wege Felix , Baude Jonas , Monti Antonello
Published: August 2023

Fast digitalization of the power grids and the adoption of innovative software solutions is key to a successful energy transition. In other sectors, such as telecommunication or cloud computing, open-source software has already proven capable of transforming entire industries, by speeding up development and lowering development costs while achieving high levels of stability, interoperability, and security. However, the energy sector has not yet embraced open-source software to the same level. We discuss how existing open-source software principles can be applied to the unique challenges of the energy sector during the transition towards higher penetration of renewable energy resources. To provide an overview of the current state of the open-source software landscape, we collected and analyzed 388 open-source projects, in terms of project activities, community composition, relevant licenses, and commonly used programming languages. One finding was that the majority of projects are currently driven by academic contributors, but that commercial players do also play a role, and we identify positive examples of collaboration between the two, mostly related to standardization.
Predicting Building Energy Demand and Retrofit Potentials Using New Climatic Stress Indices and Curves
Authors: De Masi Rosa Francesca , Mauro Gerardo Maria , Ruggiero Silvia , Villano Francesca
Published: August 2023

Building energy requalification in Italy and Europe has been much discussed in recent years due to the high percentage of existing buildings with poor energy performance. In this context, it is useful to obtain a user-friendly and fast tool to predict the thermal energy demand (TED) for space conditioning and the related primary energy consumption (PEC) as a function of climatic stress. In this study, the SLABE methodology (simulation-based large-scale uncertainty/sensitivity analysis of building energy performance) is used to simulate representative Italian buildings, varying parameters such as geometry, envelope and HVAC (heating, ventilating and space conditioning) systems. MATLAB® in combination with EnergyPlus is used to analyze 200 buildings belonging to two structural types (multi-family buildings and apartment blocks) built in 1961–1975. Nine scenarios (as-built scenarios and eight retrofit ones) are investigated in 63 climatic locations. A regression analysis shows that the classical HDDs (heating degree days) approach cannot give an accurate prediction of TED because solar radiation is not accounted for. Thus, new climatic indices are developed alongside solar radiation, including the heating stress index (HSI), the cooling stress index (CSI) and the yearly climatic stress index (YCSI). The purpose of our work is to obtain climatic stress curves for the prediction of TED and PEC. Testing of this novel approach is performed by comparison with another building energy simulation tool, showing a low discrepancy, i.e., the coefficient of variation of the root mean square error is between 12% and 28%, which confirms certain reliability of the approach here proposed.
Performance Analysis of Solar Tracking Systems by Five-Position Angles with a Single Axis and Dual Axis
Authors: Thungsuk Nuttee , Tanaram Thaweesak , Chaithanakulwat Arckarakit , Savangboon Teerawut , Songruk Apidat , Mungkung Narong , Maneepen Theerapong , Arunrungrusmi Somchai , Poonthong Wittawat , Kasayapanand Nat , Nilwhut Siriwhut , Kinoshita Hiroyuki , Yuji Toshifumi
Published: August 2023

This research presents an analysis of the five-position angle in both single-axis (one-axis tracking) and dual-axis (two-axis tracking) solar tracking systems. The study compares these tracking systems, where four solar panels move simultaneously, with a fixed solar panel system. The findings revealed that the five-position angle Sun-tracking technique resulted in lower energy consumption by the tracking mechanism than in the case of an all-time solar tracking system. The key component of the implemented system is a light-dependent resistor (LDR) sensor for controlling the motion of the motor for five positions on the vertical axis and horizontal axis, processed by a microcontroller to ensure the necessary solar tracking always moves in a perpendicular direction. According to the results, the voltage, current, and power increased with both one-axis and two-axis tracking compared to those of the fixed solar panel system under the same conditions. However, when evaluating the total energy with numerical integration methods, one-axis and two-axis provided 183.12 Wh and 199.79 Wh, respectively. Consequently, the energy production of the one-axis tracking system and the one-axis tracking system was found to be 16.71% and 24.97%, respectively, when compared to the fixed-axis system. Thus, the five-position angles of the sun-tracking technique resulted in lower energy consumption than is the case of an all-time solar tracking system.
Impact of Bypass Diode Fault Resistance Values on Burnout in Bypass Diode Failures in Simulated Photovoltaic Modules with Various Output Parameters
Authors: Hamada Toshiyuki , Azuma Tomoki , Nanno Ikuo , Ishikura Norio , Fujii Masayuki , Oke Shinichiro
Published: August 2023

The bypass diode (BPD), a protective element in a photovoltaic system (PVS), occasionally fails as a result of lightning damage. In this study, using various resistance values, we investigated the burnout risk of PV modules experiencing BPD failures through experiments that replicated conditions in which a BPD fails. Specifically, we evaluated the electric power generated by the failed BPD as we varied the faulty resistance value. Furthermore, we examined the impact of the failure resistance value of the BPD on PV module burnout. The results indicated that the power consumption of a BPD is particularly high, ranging from approximately 2 to 10 Ω when the PV module operates at its maximum power point. In addition, when the load is disconnected, the risk of heat generation is significantly higher, at BPD fault resistance values of approximately 0.1–10 Ω. Moreover, a faulty BPD with a resistance of approximately 0.1–10 Ω poses a high risk of burnout, particularly during load disconnection, owing to the increased heat generated by a BPD failure.
Antioxidant Defense of Mytilus galloprovincialis Mussels Induced by Marine Heatwaves in Correlation with Marteilia Pathogen Presence
Authors: Lattos Athanasios , Papadopoulos Dimitrios K. , Feidantsis Konstantinos , Giantsis Ioannis A. , Georgoulis Ioannis , Karagiannis Dimitrios , Michaelidis Basile
Published: August 2023

Background: The effects of climate change negatively affect marine bivalves’ health. Lately, the intensity of marine heatwaves poses serious threats to the aquatic environment setting of high-risk bivalve farming. Since temperature increases can jeopardize bivalves’ immunity response, pathogen infection becomes more evident. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, increased during the process of phagocytosis, is confronted by the animals’ antioxidant defense system. However, apart from pathogenic infections, antioxidant defense responses are also induced by seawater temperature increases; Methods: To enlighten the antioxidant status of Mytilus galloprovincialis originating from mortality events enhanced by intense heatwaves in Thermaikos Gulf, northern Greece, along with Marteilia refringens infection, we examined the expression of genes related to antioxidant defense (catalase, CuSOD and mt10) along with the lipid peroxidation levels and activity levels of antioxidant enzymes (catalase, SOD and glutathione reductase); Results: Our results exhibited increased levels of all these biomarkers. This increase was intensified in the Marteilia infected individuals; Conclusions: Our findings shed light on the oxidative and antioxidant status of farmed mussels led to mortality in the context of Marteilia infection. The latter is augmented by the synergistic effect of heatwaves causing a significant increase in oxidative damage and subsequent antioxidant defense.
Melatonin Postharvest Treatment in Leafy ‘Fino’ Lemon Maintains Quality and Bioactive Compounds
Authors: Badiche-El Hilali Fátima , Valverde Juan Miguel , García-Pastor María E. , Serrano María , Castillo Salvador , Valero Daniel
Published: August 2023

Spain is a great producer of organic lemon; however, it is necessary to reduce the losses caused by post-harvest diseases. Melatonin (MEL) is a naturally occurring compound with physiological functions in fruit growth and ripening and is able to modulate postharvest ripening and senescence, most of it being concentrated in climacteric fruit. Thus, the aim of this study was to apply MEL to organic lemon fruit with stems and leaves (LEAF) and to organic lemon without those components (LEAFLESS) after harvesting and storage during 21 days at 2 °C to understand the effects of this treatment on the fruit quality. For this purpose, two experiments were carried out. First, MEL was applied at 0.01 mM, 0.1 mM and 1.0 mM by immersion for 15 min on lemon fruits, and the quality parameters and bioactive compounds of the fruit were analysed. Subsequently, a second experiment was carried out where the best concentration (1 mM) was selected and another time (15 and 30 min) was added, with the same quality parameters being analysed. As a result, we observed that all MEL treatments showed positive effects on weight loss reduction, softening (higher fruit firmness), total acidity and lower colour changes. Total phenols increased in MEL-treated lemons, both in peel and juice. For the three concentrations tested, the best efficiency was obtained with MEL at 1.0 mM, while LEAF lemons were the most effective. In conclusion, lemons containing stems and leaves (LEAF) improved preservability by using MEL at 1.0 mM with better organoleptic quality and enhanced phenolic compounds.
Nonlinear Integral Inequalities Involving Tempered Ψ-Hilfer Fractional Integral and Fractional Equations with Tempered Ψ-Caputo Fractional Derivative
Authors: Medveď Milan , Pospíšil Michal , Brestovanská Eva
Published: August 2023

In this paper, the nonlinear version of the Henry–Gronwall integral inequality with the tempered Ψ-Hilfer fractional integral is proved. The particular cases, including the linear one and the nonlinear integral inequality of this type with multiple tempered Ψ-Hilfer fractional integrals, are presented as corollaries. To illustrate the results, the problem of the nonexistence of blowing-up solutions of initial value problems for fractional differential equations with tempered Ψ-Caputo fractional derivative of order 0<α<1, where the right side may depend on time, the solution, or its tempered Ψ-Caputo fractional derivative of lower order, is investigated. As another application of the integral inequalities, sufficient conditions for the Ψ-exponential stability of trivial solutions are proven for these kinds of differential equations.
Non-Electroneutrality Generated by Bacteriorhodopsin-Incorporated Membranes Enhances the Conductivity of a Gelatin Memory Device
Authors: Chiu U-Ting , Lee Bo-Fan , Ko Ling-Ning , Yang Chii-Shen , Chao Ling
Published: August 2023

We have previously demonstrated the potential of gelatin films as a memory device, offering a novel approach for writing, reading, and erasing through the manipulation of gelatin structure and bound water content. Here, we discovered that incorporating a bacteriorhodopsin (BR)–lipid membrane into the gelatin devices can further increase the electron conductivity of the polypeptide-bound water network and the ON/OFF ratio of the device by two folds. Our photocurrent measurements show that the BR incorporated in the membrane sandwiched in a gelatin device can generate a net proton flow from the counter side to the deposited side of the membrane. This leads to the establishment of non-electroneutrality on the gelatin films adjacent to the BR-incorporated membrane. Our Raman spectroscopy results show that BR proton pumping in the ON state gelatin device increases the bound water presence and promotes polypeptide unwinding compared to devices without BR. These findings suggest that the non-electroneutrality induced by BR proton pumping can increase the extent of polypeptide unwinding within the gelatin matrix, consequently trapping more bound water within the gelatin-bound water network. The resulting rise in hydrogen bonds could expand electron transfer routes, thereby enhancing the electron conductivity of the memory device in the ON state.
Alleviating Effect of a Magnetite (Fe3O4) Nanogel against Waterborne-Lead-Induced Physiological Disturbances, Histopathological Changes, and Lead Bioaccumulation in African Catfish
Authors: Rahman Afaf N. Abdel , Elkhadrawy Basma Ahmed , Mansour Abdallah Tageldein , Abdel-Ghany Heba M. , Yassin Engy Mohamed Mohamed , Elsayyad Asmaa , Alwutayd Khairiah Mubarak , Ismail Sameh H. , Mahboub Heba H.
Published: August 2023

Heavy metal toxicity is an important issue owing to its harmful influence on fish. Hence, this study is a pioneer attempt to verify the in vitro and in vivo efficacy of a magnetite (Fe3O4) nanogel (MNG) in mitigating waterborne lead (Pb) toxicity in African catfish. Fish (n = 160) were assigned into four groups for 45 days. The first (control) and second (MNG) groups were exposed to 0 and 1.2 mg L−1 of MNG in water. The third (Pb) and fourth (MNG + Pb) groups were exposed to 0 and 1.2 mg L−1 of MNG in water and 69.30 mg L−1 of Pb. In vitro, the MNG caused a dramatic drop in the Pb level within 120 h. The Pb-exposed group showed the lowest survival (57.5%) among the groups, with substantial elevations in hepato-renal function and lipid peroxide (MDA). Moreover, Pb exposure caused a remarkable decline in the protein-immune parameters and hepatic antioxidants, along with higher Pb residual deposition in muscles and obvious histopathological changes in the liver and kidney. Interestingly, adding aqueous MNG to Pb-exposed fish relieved these alterations and increased survivability. Thus, MNG is a novel antitoxic agent against Pb toxicity to maintain the health of C. gariepinus.
A Review of Physicochemical Stabilization for Improved Engineering Properties of Clays
Authors: Bukhary Ahmed , Azam Shahid
Published: August 2023

Severe climatic and environmental conditions warrant the use of stabilization agents in aid of compaction for sustainable improvement in engineering properties of clays. Physicochemical agents are a viable option because they are cost effective, environmentally friendly, and offer improved long-term performance of treated soils. This research developed a fundamental understanding of the clay–water–electrolyte admixtures relations. Based on a comprehensive literature review, the effect of nanomaterials, biopolymers, and geopolymers on the behavior of compacted clays was investigated. It was found that all of these admixtures facilitate the development of an aggregated soil microstructure through unique mechanisms. Biopolymers have the highest water adsorption capacity followed by geopolymers and then by nanomaterials. The effect of admixtures on optimum compaction properties follows a decreasing trend similar to untreated clays (S = 80% ± 20%). The variation of hydraulic conductivity, compression index, and compressive strength are largely within the family of curves identified by typical relationships for compacted clays. These preliminary findings indicate that not all engineering properties are improved to the same level by the different types of physicochemical admixtures. The specific nature of geotechnical engineering (soil type and site conditions) as well as the wide range of admixture types and potential biodegradation of some of the reagents are the major shortcoming of using this class of materials.
Field Baseflow Eluting SOM-Rich Sandy Soil to Exacerbate Non-Point Source Pollution of Lake Erhai, Southwest China
Authors: He Debo , Liu Xianglong , Fu Yan , Wang Tao , Zhu Bo
Published: August 2023

Excessive nutrient loss from farmland located on the west bank of Erhai Lake has resulted in significant non-point source pollution within the Lake Erhai basin. However, mitigating this issue proves challenging due to the intricate nature of soil properties and environmental factors. Here, during the rainy season in the Lake Erhai basin, we collected and analyzed soil profile samples, 35 topsoil (0–20 cm) samples, and more than 300 field baseflow samples. Our objective was to explore the influences of soil properties, field baseflow, and agricultural management measures on the spatiotemporal migration of nutrients. The results indicated that the concentration of soil organic matter (SOM) has a significant impact on the spatial patterns of nutrient distribution in sandy soil. Consequently, this leads to a substantial reduction in the potential for nutrient loss in the Lake Erhai basin. The vegetable-field baseflow exhibited the highest concentrations of nitrogen and phosphorus when subjected to high fertilization and flood irrigation. The concentrations of TN and TP in baseflow increase by a factor of 2 and 7.7, respectively, during rainfall compared to periods of no rainfall. Optimizing agricultural measures, such as replacing chemical fertilizers with organic fertilizers and modifying irrigation methods to enhance the organic content of sandy soil and minimize baseflow elution, has a beneficial impact on mitigating agricultural non-point source pollution in the Erhai Lake basin. The research results can enable us to have a more systematic understanding of the problem of non-point source pollution in the Erhai River Basin, and provide a theoretical basis for developing targeted agricultural non-point source pollution mitigation plans. Simultaneously, optimizing agricultural management models to strike a balance between agricultural economic development and ecological protection issues holds significant practical significance for managers.
Optimizing Different Medium Component Concentration and Temperature Stress Pretreatment for Gynogenesis Induction in Unpollinated Ovule Culture of Sugar Beet (Beta vulgaris L.)
Authors: Zayachkovskaya Tatyina , Alyokhina Ksenia , Mineykina Anna , Romanova Olga , Vjurtts Tatiana , Tukuser Yana , Zayachkovsky Vladimir , Ermolaev Alexey , Kan Lyudmila , Fomicheva Maria , Domblides Elena
Published: August 2023

The great economic importance of sugar beet determines the ongoing biotechnological studies conducted worldwide to improve the technology of obtaining doubled haploids (DHs) using the method of unpollinated ovule culture in vitro. To improve the induction of gynogenesis, we tested the effect of thidiazuron (TDZ), temperature bud pretreatment, different concentrations of sucrose, and culturing on liquid or solid medium. Three genotypes were tested in this study. The use of TDZ at a concentration of 0.4 mg/L in solid IMB (induction medium for Beta vulgaris) induction nutrient medium with 3 g/L phytagel, 50 g/L sucrose, 200 mg/L ampicillin and cultivation at 28◦C in the dark produced up to 16.7% induced ovules. The liquid nutrient medium of the same composition induced up to 8% ovules. Increasing TDZ concentration to 0.8 mg/L resulted in reduction or total inhibition of gynogenesis, depending on the genotype. Reducing the sucrose concentration to 20 g/L or increasing it to 80 g/L was not effective. In all three genotypes, the absence of temperature pretreatment of buds (5–6 °C) showed the best results. The plant regeneration with MS nutrient medium of 20 g/L sucrose, 3 g/L phytagel, 1 mg/L 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP) and 0.1 mg/L gibberellic acid (GA3) resulted in up to seven shoots from one induced ovule in the most responsive genotype. We showed by flow cytometry, chromosome counting and chloroplast number assessment that all regenerant plants were haploid (2n = x = 9).
How Do Young Adult Drinkers React to Varied Alcohol Warning Formats and Contents? An Exploratory Study in France
Authors: Dossou Gloria Thomasia , Guillou-Landreat Morgane , Lemain Loic , Lacoste-Badie Sophie , Critchlow Nathan , Gallopel-Morvan Karine
Published: August 2023

Research on alcohol warnings has increased in the last decade, providing key evidence to governments on warning format and contents. The bulk of this research, however, has been conducted in Anglosphere countries, whereas fewer studies have focused on other countries which have high per capita alcohol consumption, and where the high social acceptability of drinking is liable to affect how people accept and react to prevention measures. Since France has one of the highest per capita alcohol consumption rates in the world according to the World Health Organization (WHO), we therefore explore how young adults in France react to warnings on alcoholic beverage advertisements. We conducted 25 in-depth interviews, in 2017, with 18–25-year-old drinkers in France. Respondents were asked open-ended questions on the perceived impact of various warning contents (i.e., on health risk, social-cost risk, and on short- vs. long-term risk) and formats (text only vs. larger text combined with colored pictograms). Warnings that targeted youth-relevant risks (i.e., road accidents or sexual assault) were considered to be the most meaningful and credible, although warnings communicating longer term risks (i.e., brain, cancer) were also thought to be influential. Less familiar risks, such as marketing manipulation and calorie intake, elicited the most negative reactions. Larger text-and-pictogram warnings were considered to be the most effective format in capturing attention and increasing awareness. Regardless of format and content, however, these warnings were not perceived as effective for decreasing alcohol consumption.
Determinants of Health Care Needs in Relation to Vision Correction among Adolescents in the United Arab Emirates: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Maniyali Faryal , Sanchez Otto , Papaconstantinou Efrosini , Barakat Caroline
Published: August 2023

Background: Uncorrected refractive error has been suggested to affect children’s development, educational performance, and socialization. Sociodemographic and environmental differences among individuals may impact their accessibility to utilizing appropriate services, impacting their vision-dependent activities. Methods: Guided by the population health framework, this retrospective study assessed the prevalence of self-reported vision correction needs and its determinants for a sample of adolescents (n = 6363) from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) aged 13 to 20 years between 2007 to 2009. Results: The findings suggest a relatively high prevalence of self-reported vision correction needs (26.8%), with among 24.8% males and 31.7% among females. Factors that were significantly associated with vision correction needs included age, biological sex, location of residence (emirate), nationality, parental education and employment level, household financial status, screen time use, visiting an eye specialist in the past year, and daily functional capacity. Conclusion: Reporting the vision correction needs of the adolescent population and identifying its determinants may help identify and resolve modifiable barriers to accessing the appropriate vision care resources. Further research in assessing the type of refractive error, potential genetic and environmental factors, and vision care services in each emirate may help decision-makers set appropriate policies to improve the overall quality of eye health.
Sentiments Extracted from News and Stock Market Reactions in Vietnam
Authors: Vu Loan Thi , Pham Dong Ngoc , Kieu Hang Thu , Pham Thuy Thi Thanh
Published: August 2023

News on the stock market contains positive or negative sentiments depending on whether the information provided is favorable or unfavorable to the stock market. This study aims to discover news sentiments and classify news according to its sentiments with the application of PhoBERT, a Natural Language Processing model designed for the Vietnamese language. A collection of nearly 40,000 articles on financial and economic websites is used to train the model. After training, the model succeeds in assigning news to different classes of sentiments with an accuracy level of over 81%. The research also aims to investigate how investors are concerned with the daily news by testing the movements of the market before and after the news is released. The results of the analysis show that there is an insignificant difference in the stock price as a response to the news. However, negative news sentiments can alter the variance of market returns.
Emerging Roles of Lysophosphatidic Acid in Macrophages and Inflammatory Diseases
Authors: Jiang Shufan , Yang Huili , Li Mingqing
Published: August 2023

Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) is a bioactive phospholipid that regulates physiological and pathological processes in numerous cell biological functions, including cell migration, apoptosis, and proliferation. Macrophages are found in most human tissues and have multiple physiological and pathological functions. There is growing evidence that LPA signaling plays a significant role in the physiological function of macrophages and accelerates the development of diseases caused by macrophage dysfunction and inflammation, such as inflammation-related diseases, cancer, atherosclerosis, and fibrosis. In this review, we summarize the roles of LPA in macrophages, analyze numerous macrophage- and inflammation-associated diseases triggered by LPA, and discuss LPA-targeting therapeutic strategies.
Molecular Mechanisms of Endothelialitis in SARS-CoV-2 Infection: Evidence for VE-Cadherin Cleavage by ACE2
Authors: Bouillet Laurence , Deroux Alban , Benmarce Meryem , Guérin Chloé , Bouvet Laura , Garnier Olivia , Martin Donald K. , Vilgrain Isabelle
Published: August 2023

Long COVID-19 syndrome appears after Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome-Corona Virus (SARS-CoV-2) infection with acute damage to microcapillaries, microthrombi, and endothelialitis. However, the mechanisms involved in these processes remain to be elucidated. All blood vessels are lined with a monolayer of endothelial cells called vascular endothelium, which provides a the major function is to prevent coagulation. A component of endothelial cell junctions is VE-cadherin, which is responsible for maintaining the integrity of the vessels through homophilic interactions of its Ca++-dependent adhesive extracellular domain. Here we provide the first evidence that VE-cadherin is a target in vitro for ACE2 cleavage because its extracellular domain (hrVE-ED) contains two amino acid sequences for ACE2 substrate recognition at the positions 256P-F257 and 321PMKP-325L. Indeed, incubation of hrVE-ED with the active ectopeptidase hrACE2 for 16 hrs in the presence of 10 μM ZnCl2 showed a dose-dependent (from 0.2 ng/μL to 2 ng/μL) decrease of the VE-cadherin immunoreactive band. In vivo, in the blood from patients having severe COVID-19 we detected a circulating form of ACE2 with an apparent molecular mass of 70 kDa, which was barely detectable in patients with mild COVID-19. Of importance, in the patients with severe COVID-19 disease, the presence of three soluble fragments of VE-cadherin (70, 62, 54 kDa) were detected using the antiEC1 antibody while only the 54 kDa fragment was present in patients with mild disease. Altogether, these data clearly support a role for ACE2 to cleave VE-cadherin, which leads to potential biomarkers of SARS-CoV-2 infection related with the vascular disease in “Long COVID-19”.
Changes of the Protein CoAlation Pattern in Response to Oxidative Stress and Capacitation in Human Spermatozoa
Authors: Petrone Olivia , Serafini Steven , Yu Bess Yi Kun , Filonenko Valeriy , Gout Ivan , O’Flaherty Cristian
Published: August 2023

The spermatozoa have limited antioxidant defences, a high polyunsaturated fatty acids content and the impossibility of synthesizing proteins, thus being susceptible to oxidative stress. High levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) harm human spermatozoa, promoting oxidative damage to sperm lipids, proteins and DNA, leading to infertility. Coenzyme A (CoA) is a key metabolic integrator in all living cells. Recently, CoA was shown to function as a major cellular antioxidant mediated by a covalent modification of surface-exposed cysteines by CoA (protein CoAlation) under oxidative or metabolic stresses. Here, the profile of protein CoAlation was examined in sperm capacitation and in human spermatozoa treated with different oxidizing agents (hydrogen peroxide, (H2O2), diamide and tert-butyl hydroperoxide (t-BHP). Sperm viability and motility were also investigated. We found that H2O2 and diamide produced the highest levels of protein CoAlation and the greatest reduction of sperm motility without impairing viability. Protein CoAlation levels are regulated by 2-Cys peroxiredoxins (PRDXs). Capacitated spermatozoa showed lower levels of protein CoAlation than non-capacitation cells. This study is the first to demonstrate that PRDXs regulate protein CoAlation, which is part of the antioxidant response of human spermatozoa and participates in the redox regulation associated with sperm capacitation.