bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Telomere Regulation by Metabolism Reprogramming
Authors: Rubtsova Maria P. , Nikishin Denis A , Koriagina Maria S , Vasiliev Andrey V , Dontsova Olga A
Published: January 2024

Telomeres – special DNA-protein structures at the ends of linear eukaryotic chromosomes define the proliferation potential of cells. Extremely short telomeres promote DNA damage response and cell death to eliminate cells potentially accumulated mutations after multiple divisions. However, telomere elongation is associated with increased proliferative potential of special types of cells, such as stem and germ cells, permanently, and is activated temporally in processes of activation of immune response, regeneration processes. Activation of mechanisms of telomere lengthening coupled with increased proliferation and with requirements of cells in energy and building resourses. To obtain necessary nutrients cells stimulate metabolism by switching of oxidative phosphorylation program to glycolysis. In this review we focused on the interconnection of metabolism program and telomere lengthening mechanisms known for the situation of the programmed activation of proliferation such as germ cells maturation, early embryonic development program and immune response activation. Here, we propose that it is possible to reprogram metabolism in order to regulate the telomere length, proliferative activity of cells that may be important for the development of approaches to regeneration, immune response modulation and cancer therapy and further investigations in this area are necessary to improve the understanding and manipulating of molecular mechanisms used for regulation of proliferation.
The Hospital Emigration to Another Region in the Light of the Environmental, Social and Governance Model in Italy During the Period 2004-2021
Authors: Resta Emanuela , Resta Onofrio , Costantiello Alberto , Leogrande Angelo
Published: January 2024

The following article presents an analysis of the impact of the Environmental, Social and Governance-ESG determinants on Hospital Emigration to Another Region-HEAR in the Italian regions in the period 2004-2021. The data are analysed using Panel Data with Random Effects, Panel Data with Fixed Effects, Pooled Ordinary Least Squares-OLS, Weighted Least Squares-WLS, and Dynamic Panel at 1 Stage. Results show that HEAR is negatively associated to E, positively to S and negatively associated to the G within the ESG model. The data were subjected to clustering with a k-Means algorithm optimized with the Silhouette coefficient. The optimal clustering with k=2 is compared to the sub-optimal cluster with k=3. The results suggest a negative relationship between the resident population and hospital emigration at regional level. Finally, a prediction is proposed with machine learning algorithms classified based on statistical performance. The results show that the Artificial Neural Network-ANN algorithm is the best predictor. The ANN predictions are critically analyzed in light of health economic policy directions.
Optimization Methods for Wind Turbines
Authors: Rotkin Vladimir
Published: January 2024

This article is devoted to overcoming the contradiction between the problem of maximizing the extraction of wind energy as the goal of optimizing wind turbines, and the use of traditional methods based on criteria for the aerodynamic quality of the blades. A modified technique is considered in which the optimization criterion is the directly extracted flow power. It is based on pulse theory methods that use specific power as an optimization criterion. A comparative analysis of the energy efficiency of different types of turbines is carried out, and the effects of blade inversion are considered. A method for calculating multi-rotor turbines based on the concept of uniform power distribution is presented. The compatibility of proprietary and traditional methods is considered by comparing the results of numerical experiments with calculated and experimental data from sources. Optimization computational algorithms generate data from numerical experiments and determine optimal parameter configurations for the turbines under consideration. It is shown that orthogonal Darrieus turbines in high-speed mode provide energy efficiency comparable to collinear turbines, and multi-rotor turbines with power uniformly distributed over the working section are not inferior in energy efficiency to basic turbines, with linear blade velocities halved.
Study of Synthesis of Dual-Curing Thermoplastic Polyurethane Hot-Melt Adhesive and Optimization by Using Grey Relational Analysis to Apply on Fabric Industry to Solve Seamless Bonding Issues
Authors: Lin Sheng-Yu , Ahmad Naveed , Jeffrey Kuo Chung-Feng
Published: January 2024

People wore clothes for warmth, survival and necessity in modern life as well but in modern era, eco-friendliness, shorten production time, design, and intelligence also matters. The seamless bonding technology strengthen the bond between fabrics in textiles, while Grey relational analysis (GRA) can be applied to fabrics to measure the relationship between data series and determine the closeness of each data series. In this study, polyurethane prepolymer, 2-Hydroxyethyl acrylate (2-HEA) as an end-capping agent, and n-octyl acrylate (ODA) as a photo-initiator were used to synthesize dual-curing polyurethane hot-melt adhesive. The Taguchi quality engineering and grey relational analysis used to discuss the influence of different mole ratio of NCO:OH, and the effect of the molar ratio of addition of octyl decyl acrylate on the mechanical strength. The Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) results showed the termination of prepolymer's polymerization reaction and the C=O peak intensity at 1730 cm-1 indicating the efficient bonding to main chain. The high molecular weight polymer (20,000-30,000) described by advanced polymer chromatography (APC) confirmed the polyurethane polymer bonded with octyl decyl acrylate to achieve the photo-thermosetting effect. The thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) results showed the thermal decomposition temperature of polyurethane hot melt adhesive also increased and highest pyrolysis temperature (349.89℃) for the polyhydric alcohols. The high value of shear strength (34.94 kg/cm2) as well as peel strength (1.68 kg/cm) were also observed in dual-cure photo-thermosetting polyurethane hot melt adhesive. The signal-to-noise ratio also used to generate the grey relational degree. It was observed that the best parameter ration of NCO: OH was 4:1 with 5 moles of monomer. The Taguchi quality engineering method was used to find the parameters of single quality optimization, and then the grey relation calculation was used to obtain the parameter combination of multi-quality optimization for thermosetting polyurethane hot melt adhesive. The study aims to meet the requirements of seamless bonding in textile factories and optimized experimental parameter design by setting target values can effectively increase production speed, reduce processing time and costs as well.
Processes Controlling the Contractile Ring During Cytokinesis in Fission Yeast Including the Role of ESCRT Proteins
Authors: Rezig Imane , Yaduma Wandiahyel , McInerny Christopher
Published: January 2024

Cytokinesis, as the last stage of the cell division cycle, is a tightly controlled process amongst all eukaryotes, and defective division can lead to severe cellular consequences, and is implicated in serious human diseases and conditions such as cancer. Both mammalian cells and the fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe use binary fission to divide into two equal sized daughter cells. Similar to mammalian cells, in S. pombe such cytokinetic division is driven by the assembly of an actin-myosin contractile ring (ACR) at the cell equator between the two cell tips. The ACR is composed of a complex network of membrane scaffold proteins, actin filaments, myosin motors, and other cytokinesis regulators. Contraction of the ACR leads to the formation of a cleavage furrow which is severed by the endosomal sorting complex required for transport (ESCRT) proteins leading to the final cell separation during the last stage of cytokinesis, abscission. This review describes recent findings defining the three phases to establish cytokinesis in S. pombe: ACR assembly, ACR constriction, and its coordination with septation. Collectively, we provide an overview of current understanding of the mechanisms regulating the ACR-mediated cytokinesis in S. pombe with a potential role of ESCRT proteins in this process.
Analyzing Extreme Winds over Turkey and Their Relationships with Synoptic Patterns Using Cluster Analysis
Authors: Başar Görgün Umut Gül , Menteş Şükran Sibel
Published: January 2024

Climate research shows that extreme weather events and their effects are increasing in frequency, severity, and impact. Extreme wind events can cause massive societal and economic damage. High wind occurrences and their causes must be identified because they are hard to define and understand. Extreme wind modeling affects wind power plant planning, installation, and building modeling. This applies to city, vegetation, and vegetational area modeling. The scientific literature utilizes statistical, dynamic (Weather Research and Forecasting-WRF), and machine learning methods to identify extreme wind speeds. This study explores the relationship between lower-level extreme wind speeds and upper-level parameters like Z500, and T850 based on cluster analysis. The aim is to explore the correlation between upper-level atmospheric dynamics and lower-level wind behavior. K-Means cluster analysis method was employed to classify Turkish regions with similar severe wind episodes. WRF model simulation findings from NEWA (New European Wind Atlas) project (2019) were used for that purpose. The NEWA project's wind speed data at 100m a.g.l. was used for cluster analysis. We simplify the process by grid point reduction and applying the top 2% percentile as threshold value. Self-Organized Maps (SOM) clustering was also applied using the upper-level variables.
The Multisystem Impact of Long COVID: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Negrut Nicoleta , Georgios Menegas , Kampioti Sofia , Bourelou Maria , Kopanyi Francesca , Hassan Faiso Dahir , Asowed Anamaria , Taleouine Fatima Zohra , Ferician Anca , Marian Paula
Published: January 2024

(1) Background: COVID-19 was responsible for the latest pandemic, shaking and reshaping healthcare systems worldwide. Its late clinical manifestations make it linger in medical memory as a debilitating illness over extended periods. (2) Methods: Recent literature was systematically analyzed to categorize and examine the symptomatology and pathophysiology of Long COVID across various bodily systems, including pulmonary, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, neuropsychiatric, dermatological, renal, hematological, and endocrinological aspects. (3) Results: The review outlines the diverse clinical manifestations of Long COVID across multiple systems, emphasizing its complexity and challenges in diagnosis and treatment. Factors such as pre-existing conditions, initial COVID-19 severity, vaccination status, gender, and age were identified as influential in the manifestation and persistence of Long COVID symptoms. This condition is highlighted as a debilitating disease capable of enduring over an extended period and presenting new symptoms over time. (4) Conclusions: Long COVID emerges as a condition with intricate multi-systemic involvement, complicating its diagnosis and treatment. The findings underscore the necessity for a nuanced understanding of its diverse manifestations to effectively manage and address the evolving nature of this condition over time.
PFA-TP3M: Permanent Fault Aware Two-Phase Peak-Power Management in Fault-Tolerant Multi-Core Systems
Authors: Hatefi Pargol , Salehi Mohammad
Published: January 2024

It is necessary to manage the power consumption and use fault-tolerance techniques to meet high reliability in Real-Time Embedded Systems, . Hence, in recent years, this is the main reason for providing an ideal approach to decrease power consumption through the worst-case behavior of instantaneous power management (peak-power management), while observing the Thermal Design Power (TDP). Although the multi-core chips in real-time embedded systems provide great opportunity for implementation of Two-phase Triple modular redundancy to meet high reliability, the energy overhead management of concurrently executing tasks is one of the challenges facing designers. In this article, we propose a scheme named Permanent Fault Aware, Two-Phase Peak-Power Management (PFA-TP3M), for scheduling real-time tasks in multi-core systems to eliminate peak power overlap from concurrent running tasks to maintain peak power consumption at the chip TDP. and through mapping different parts of each task on separate cores, prevents consecutive conflicts on cores, which have faced permanent faults to design the fault-tolerant system. Our simulation results show that our proposed scheme provides up to 700x fault tolerance increase (630x on average) compared to the state-of-the-art power management algorithm, an achievement costs up to 14%. (average 11%) increase the length of the task graph compared to it.
Measuring the Factors Impact on Firm Performance Recovery in Coffee Chain in Vietnam
Authors: Pham Manh Tien
Published: January 2024

The recent market and pandemic, with their complex nature and unpredictable developments, have had a great impact on coffee chains. The recovery factor in today's fiercely competitive coffee market is also derived from customer satisfaction, and the product's perceived value and ever with businesses' capabilities and recovery strategies. The research is based on the Customer and Service Recovery Performance model. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the impact of the Customer Satisfaction premise on the service recovery of the coffee chain and some other effects. After collecting surveys from 300 customers who have used beverages at famous coffee chains in Vietnam and performing data analysis via SEM-PLS, the results show that customer satisfaction positively influences customer loyalty. Customer loyalty mediates between customer satisfaction, and price fairness affects the resilience of the coffee chain. In addition, the two factors, Flexibility, and Adoption, also positively affect service recovery performance. Therefore, for coffee chains, customers are an important factor, and they need to maintain customer loyalty. In addition, seek ways to increase flexibility and apply technology at stores so that the company has enough experience and capacity to respond promptly to difficult market conditions, natural disasters and epidemics. This study presents insights into how coffee chains can adapt to the dynamic business environment during the current difficult business environment.
Repair and misrepair of telomeric DNA in dynamic interactions with PML nuclear bodies and lamin B1. A gear-wheel nuclear traffic.
Authors: Salmina Kristine , Rūmnieks Fēlikss , Pjanova Dace , Erenpreisa Jekaterina
Published: January 2024

Telomeres in epithelial tumours are usually maintained by telomerase, however, in the breast cancer MDA-MB-231 cell line, polyploid cells, induced by doxorubicin (DOX) were found, after mitotic slippage, transiently shifting to recombinatory alternative telomere lengthening (ALT) in PML bodies (APBs). The involvement of the meiotic recombination proteins was evidenced here by juxta-co-localisation of SPO11, DMC1 and RAD51/γH2AX with APBs in these and melanoma SkMel28-DOX-treated cells. Using sublethal doses of DOX we also observed the formation of the PML dimeric rod tandems linking γH2AX/TRF2 foci into ribbons discontinuously inserted into lamin B1 and circumventing cell nuclei. Next, we link these PML-lamin B1 insertions and peripheral rotation of the tandemly linked telomere repeats with the mobility of the nuclear envelope limited chromatin sheets (ELCS). ELCSs comprise two layers of the criss-crossed ~30 nm granules derived from surface heterochromatin (epichromatin) which contains telomere repeats enriched in GpC, PML, and ALU. ELCS protrude, circumvent, loop, split, fuse, and rejoin polyploid cell nuclei. We propose this gear-wheel-like turnover of telomere repeats to be used for the homology search. Interstitial and end-telomere repeats flanked by fragile ALU-Z flipons become recognised by SPO11 nuclease, attract TRF2, PML, and meiotic recombinases. Subsequently, they perform ALT recombining subtelomeres and telomeres or undergo non-homologous end-joining and chromosome rearrangements with ELCS. This mechanism increases the chance of cell survival and may be involved in chromothripsis.
Dynamics of Histone Modifications during Mammalian Zygotic Genome Activation
Authors: Sotomayor-Lugo Francisco , Iglesias-Barrameda Nataly , Castillo-Aleman Yandy Marx , Casado-Hernandez Imilla , Villegas-Valverde Carlos Agustin , Bencomo-Hernandez Antonio Alfonso , Ventura-Carmenate Yendry , Rivero-Jimenez Rene Antonio
Published: January 2024

Mammalian fertilization initiates the reprogramming of oocytes and sperm, leading to the formation of a totipotent zygote. The zygotic genome remains transcriptionally silent throughout this intricate process, undergoing the maternal-to-zygotic transition (MZT) and subsequent zygotic genome activation (ZGA). Histone modifications are pivotal in shaping cellular identity and gene expression in many mammals. Recent advances in chromatin analysis enable a detailed exploration of histone modifications during ZGA. This review delves into conserved and unique regulatory strategies, providing essential insights into the dynamic changes in histone modifications and their variants during ZGA in mammals. The objective is to explore recent advancements in leading mechanisms related to histone modifications governing this embryonic development phase in depth. These considerations will be useful for informing future therapeutic approaches that target epigenetic regulation in diverse biological contexts, ranging from regenerative medicine to cancer research. It will also contribute to the extensive areas of evolutionary and developmental biology and possibly lay the foundation for future research and discussion on this seminal topic.
Effect of Positively Charged Lipids (DOTAP) on the Insertion of CNT into Liposomes and Separation Performance of Tfn Membranes
Authors: Zhao Jianjun , Sun Junqing , Zhang Kefeng , Wang Shan , Ding Wande , Li Zhengping
Published: January 2024

Liposome vesicle is an ideal carrier for carbon nanotube (CNT) to serve as the water channel that allows the fast transport of water molecules, and thus enhancing the membrane permeability. However, low quantity of the inserted CNT in the liposome vesicle is an important factor that limited further improvement of the membrane flux. In present study, positively charged lipids (2,3-dioleoyloxy-propyl)-trimethylammonium-chloride (DOTAP) was introduced to the 1,2-dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamineon (DOPE) liposome vesicles to tailor the vesicle charge, so as to evaluate the effect of positively charged DOTAP on the insertion of CNT into liposomes and separation performance of thin-film nanocomposite (TFN) membranes. The results showed that addition of DOTAP induced more quantity of CNT inserted into the liposome vesicles, since the shrinkage rate (k) and permeability (Pf) of liposome vesicles present obvious increase with increased content of DOTAP in the liposome vesicles. Besides, it contributed to 252.3% higher water flux for TFN membranes containing DOPE/DOTAP2:1-CNT liposomes (the mass ratio between DOPE and DOTAP was 2:1) than TFC membranes. More important, it presented 106.7% higher water flux for TFN membranes containing DOPE/DOTAP4:1-CNT liposomes (the mass ratio between DOPE and DOTAP was 4:1), which was originated from the more water channels that the CNT provided in the liposome vesicles. In all, positively charged DOTAP effectively tailored the vesicle charge, which provided a better carrier for the insertion of more quantity of CNT, and contributed to higher permeability of TFN membranes.
Mixed Two-Layer Balancing of Battery Packs for Electric Vehicles and Energy Storage Systems
Authors: Vitols Kristaps , Grinfogels Edgars , Galkin Ilya
Published: January 2024

Passive balancing is a traditional choice for lithium-ion battery packs although it is regarded as highly inefficient. One opportunity to improve traditional balancing in sub-medium size battery packs is to combine two balancing methods: passive and active. Statistical analysis have been performed to rationalize battery pack division in smaller packs and use of higher level selective charging method to decrease losses of passive balancing. An experimental balancing prototype have been designed and tested for efficiency. Results indicate energy performance degradation if cells of the pack are with low capacity variation. Proposed balancing approach could improve performance under high cell mismatch conditions.
Modeling of Electrochemical SOFC- Based Sensors
Authors: Lakhmi Riadh , Viricelle Jean-Paul , Alrammouz Rouba , Rieu Mathilde
Published: January 2024

Electrochemical sensors have been used for many decades. Yet, modeling of such sensors used in electrolysis mode is poorly documented, especially in the case parallel action of multiple gases. Those ones are of great interest since they constitute the first brick to bring information on natures and concentrations of a gaseous mixture composition thanks to grey box modeling of sensors array for example. Based on Butler Volmer’s equations, a model assuming parallel reactions at gold cathode has been introduced in this article and confronted to experimental results. Establishment of the model is based on the extraction of 3 variables: the charge transfer coefficient “α”, the reaction order γ, and the reaction constant rate k0. Tests performed without pollutants and with different concentrations of oxygen could be nicely fitted by the model. Then, the influence of polarization current on the 3 variables of the model has been evaluated showing a clear influence on the constant rate and the reaction order. Also, increasing the polarization current enabled us to get selectivity to oxidant gases. Similarly, the effect of the oxygen concentration was evaluated. Results showed that, in this case, the charge transfer coefficients “α” obtained for oxidant gases is quite different that the ones obtained in the polarization current varying conditions. Therefore, the model will be interesting in situations where polarization current and oxygen content are not varied together. Variation of polarization current can be quite interesting to get increased information for multivariate analysis purpose in constant oxygen content situations. Besides, other parameters have are required for applications in which the oxygen content is bound to change like exhaust gases or combustion.
Cutaneous Reactions after COVID-19 Vaccines – Analysis of the Clinical and Histological Spectrum – Case Series and Review of the Literature
Authors: Schmid Ursina , MD Jörg Galambos , MD Katrin Pfaltz , MD Ivan Hegyi , MD Salomé Courvoisier , MD Werner Kempf Prof.
Published: January 2024

(1) Background: Various cutaneous adverse drug reactions (ADRs) are observed with the development of mRNA COVID-19 vaccines. To gain insight into the clinicopathologic features, we analyzed the correlation of histological and clinical data in 48 patients with these ADRs.; (2) Methods: Single-center retrospective study in patients with ADRs post-mRNA COVID-19 vaccination (mRNA-1273 and BNT162b2 vaccines).; (3) Results: Distant generalized ADRs prevailed (91%), often appearing clinically as spongiotic dermatitis or maculo-papular exanthema. Histopathological analysis revealed spongiotic changes (46%) and dermal superficial perivascular lympho-histiocytic infiltrates (17%). Eosinophils were found in 66% of biopsies, neutrophils in 29%, and plasma cells only in 8% of biopsies. Most ADRs occurred post-second vaccine dose (44%). Histologically spongiotic changes were associated with clinical features of spongiotic dermatitis in only 50% and maculo-papular exanthema in the remaining patients. ADRs represented an aggravation of preexisting skin disease in 23% of patients. ADRs regressed within 28 days or less in 53% of patients and persisted beyond a month in the remaining patients.; (4) Conclusions: Our study demonstrates a diverse spectrum of generalized ADRs, revealing correlations between histology and clinical features but also instances of divergence. The majority of ADRs are self-limited with a few extending beyond a month.
Phytochemistry and biological activities of Cissus trifoliata against carcinomas
Authors: Méndez-López Luis Fernando
Published: January 2024

There is an urgent need to develop new therapies for cancer treatment due to high rates of resistance and tumor relapse. Moreover, chemotherapy and radiation weaken the immune system and leave patients susceptible to sudden death from infections and organ failure since antineoplastic drugs lack specificity. Hence, scientists worldwide continue the search for natural alternatives with anticancer activities and fewer side effects. In this regard, traditional medicine offers strategies for preventing and treating numerous diseases and nowadays scientific studies worldwide highlight some of the mechanisms underlying their potential as an effective alternative for the management of cancer. In Mexico, Mayan healers have been prescribed mainly medicinal plants for more than 2,000 years. Furthermore, their ethnomedical knowledge has led to drug discovery or the development of herbal remedies. Medicinal plants from the genus of Cissus remain an important element of all indigenous medical systems in Mexico including the Mayan tribes in Yucatan, particularly for the management of gastrointestinal illnesses, sores, cutaneous diseases, and tumors. In this review, we present the reported bioactivities against cancer cells of the extract and compounds from the species of Cissus with a particular focus on recent studies on the phytochemistry of C. trifoliata which is widely distributed in Mexican territory and used for tumor management in traditional medicine.
Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Ti-6Al-4V Welds Produced with Different Processes
Authors: Tolvanen Sakari , Pederson Robert , Klement Uta
Published: January 2024

The effect of defects and microstructure on mechanical properties of Ti-6Al-4V welds produced by tungsten inert gas welding, plasma arc welding, electron beam welding and laser beam welding was studied in the present work. The mechanical properties of the different weld types have been evaluated with respect to micro hardness, yield strength, ultimate tensile strength, ductility and fatigue at room temperature and at elevated temperature. Metallographic investigation was carried out to characterize the microstructures of different weld types and fractographic investigation to relate the effect of defects on fatigue performance. Electron and laser beam welding produced welds with finer microstructure, higher tensile ductility and better fatigue performance than tungsten inert gas welding and plasma arc welding. Large pores and pores located close to the specimen surface were found to be most detrimental to fatigue life.
A Long-Term Study on Chemical Compounds and Their Location in Sweet Basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) Leaves from Organic and Conventional Basil Leaves
Authors: Hallmann Ewelina , Rusaczonek Anna , Muszyńska Ewa , Ziółkowski Daniel , Kuliński Sebastian , Jasek Jakub , Ponder Alicja
Published: January 2024

Bioactive compound profiles in organic and conventional sweet basil were analyzed by HPLC, and the enzymatic status and antioxidant status of plants cultivated with the two systems were also examined. Unique chemical compound locations in the basil leaves were also estimated by fluorescence microscopy. The experiment was conducted from 2019-2021. Organic and conventional basil samples were obtained directly from the largest Polish herb producers. The results showed that the chemical structures of organic and conventional basil leaves are different. Not only cultivation method but also experimental year had a significant impact on the antioxidants content in basil leaves. Organic basil contained significantly more dry matter (11.97 g 100 g-1 FW) compare to conventional one (10.54 g 100g-1 FW) and showed a higher tendency for total phenolic (5.24 mg g -1 DW) concentrations than conventional basil (4.99 mg g-1 DW). The higher bioactive compound content reflects the antioxidant activity ( 61.0%, 54.33% and 46%) in organic basil compare to conventional 46.87%, 38.055 and 39.24%), respectively to analysis method (ABTS, DPPH and FRAP), as well catalase activity (39 µmol H2O2 min-1 mg-1) in organic compare to conventional (23.19 µmol H2O2 min-1 mg-1) of examined basil plants. The obtained results are a very unique and could be used by herbs producers as a key for q high quality basil production.
Consumption of Post-larval Swordfish (Xiphias gladius) by Dolphinfish (Coryphaena hippurus): New Ecological Insights into Both Species in the Tyrrhenian Sea
Authors: Poisson François
Published: January 2024

Knowledge of post-larval swordfish (Xiphias gladius) ecology in the world’s oceans is incomplete as they are rarely found in ichthyoplankton samplings or commercial catches and individuals are difficult to observe in the marine ecosystem. Analyses of stomach contents of apex predators can provide otherwise unobtainable ecological insights. Two well-preserved bills of post-larval swordfish were identified among the partially digested stomach contents of an adult male dolphinfish (Coryphaena hippurus) caught in the northern Tyrrhenian Sea. The lower jaw to fork lengths of the two predated swordfish were estimated at respectively, 18 and 22 cm, corresponding to 81- and 99-day-old swordfish hatched in the 2022 spawning season. This analysis and recent information on the reproductive dynamics of swordfish in the same area reported in the literature shed light not only on the early stages of swordfish growth but also on dolphinfish ecology in the Tyrrhenian Sea. The two species share the same habitat and are both caught with commercial pelagic surface longlines. Environmental shifts associated with climate change could unpredictably modify the reproduction dynamics, growth, recruitment and distribution of both species. This knowledge is important for the sustainable management of regional fisheries.
Discrete Level DNI Classification for Enhanced Solar Energy Analysis
Authors: Lorilla Franch Maverick Arellano , Barroca Renyl
Published: January 2024

This study advances the field of solar irradiance nowcasting by introducing a discrete-level classification approach, diverging from traditional continuous measurement methods. Grounded in a need for cost-effective and modular solutions, the research employs high-resolution computer vision coupled with a deep learning framework to predict Direct Normal Irradiance (DNI). By harnessing the capabilities of a Logitech C900 1080p HD camera and an NVIDIA Jetson module, the study achieves real-time data processing, pivotal for CSP systems' operational efficiency. The core of the methodology is the ResNet-50 convolutional neural network, refined via transfer learning on a bespoke dataset, culminating in a predictive accuracy of 85.78%. This discrete classification model contrasts with conventional, costly instruments like the MS-57, offering a novel and accessible alternative for DNI estimation. Such innovation not only demonstrates high predictive accuracy but also signifies a shift towards less resource-intensive and more adaptable solar energy forecasting tools, contributing a significant leap towards optimizing renewable energy systems.
Backbone of the Conservation and Management of the Cultural Heritage: A Case of Guthi System in Nepal
Authors: Subedi Salik Ram , Shrestha Sudha
Published: January 2024

The guthi, an ancient institution deeply embedded in Nepal's social, cultural, and economic fabric, has long overseen the maintenance of temples, shrines, festivals, and heritage sites since the Lichchhavi era (400-750). Since 1960, however, this system has been challenged by government land reforms, which has impacted its influence on sustainable heritage conservation. Nevertheless, there's compelling evidence that land nationalization and the guthi's declining authority have harmed local heritage conservation. Nevertheless, the guthi system has endured, serving as an important informal means of heritage conservation and highlighting the adaptability of traditional institutions. These community-based trusts, originally established for social and religious purposes, have played a pivotal role in preserving cultural practices, monuments, and temples for future generations. This article aims to demonstrate the central role of the guthi as the cornerstone of Nepal's efforts to conserve and manage both tangible and intangible cultural treasures. Using observational techniques, case studies, and a qualitative approach, it explores the historical evolution of heritage conservation through the lens of the guthi, taking into account subjective, valued, and constructed realities. The paper concludes by urging policymakers to recognize the significant contribution of indigenous systems such as the guthi in achieving sustainable heritage conservation. Embracing such traditional strategies can mitigate multifaceted problems and effectively preserve Nepal's cultural heritage through the guthi.
Zinc-Dependent Histone Deacetylases in Lung Endothelial Pathobiology
Authors: Patil Rahul S. , Maloney McKenzie E. , Lucas Rudolf , Fulton David J. R. , Patel Vijay , Bagi Zsolt , Kovacs-kasa Anita , Kovacs Laszlo , Su Yunchao , Verin Alexander D.
Published: January 2024

A monolayer of endothelial cells (ECs) lines the lumen of blood vessels and as such provides a semi-selective barrier between the blood and the interstitial space. Compromise of the lung EC barrier due to inflammatory or toxic events may results in pulmonary edema, which is a cardinal feature of acute lung injury (ALI) and its more severe form, the acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). The EC functions are controlled, at least in part, via epigenetic mechanisms mediated by histone deacetylases (HDACs). Zinc-dependent HDACs represent the largest group of HDACs and are activated by Zn2+. Members of this HDAC group are involved in the epigenetic regulation primarily via modifying the structure of chromatin upon removal of acetyl groups from histones. In addition, they can deacetylate many non-histone histone proteins, including those located in extra nuclear compartments. Recently, the therapeutic potential of inhibiting zinc-dependent HDACs for EC barrier preservation has gained momentum. However, the role of specific HDAC subtypes in EC barrier regulation remains largely unknown. This review aims to provide an update on the role of zinc-dependent HDACs in endothelial dysfunction and its related diseases. We will broadly focus on biological contributions, signaling pathways and transcriptional roles of HDACs in endothelial pathobiology associated mainly with lung diseases and we will discuss the potential of their inhibitors for lung injury prevention.
Unveiling the Mystery of Adult-Onset Still's Disease: a Compelling Case Report
Authors: Sola† Daniele , Smirne Carlo , Bruggi Francesco , Sbaratta Chiara Bottino , Njata Aubin Cardin Tamen , Valente Guido , Pavanelli Maria Cristina , Vitetta Rosetta , Bellan Mattia , De Paoli Lorenzo , Pirisi Mario
Published: January 2024

Adult-onset Still's disease (AOSD) is a rare systemic inflammatory disorder. Diagnosis can take a long time, especially in the presence of confounding factors, and it is, at least in part, of exclusion. AOSD is generally mild, however a small percentage of patients can develop a fearsome as well potentially fatal complication, the macrophage activation syndrome (MAS), which is also referred to as hemophagocytic lymphohistocytosis (HLH). This condition is correlated with a cytokine storm production and monocyte/macrophage overactivation, and typically occurs with rash, pyrexia, pancytopenia, hepatosplenomegaly and systemic involvement. Exitus occurs in approximately 10% of cases. The Histiocyte Society, which is a nonprofit organization committed to improving the lives of patients with histiocytic disorders, currently suggests etoposide in combination with dexamethasone for the treatment of HLH/MAS, although a multidisciplinary collaboration using the resources and expertise of several specialists (e.g. rheumatologist, infectiologist, critical care medicine specialist) is always recommended. Hereby we propose the detailed description of the clinical case of a previously healthy young woman in which MAS was the dramatic onset manifestation of AOSD and whose diagnosis posed a real clinical challenge.
First Report on the Seed Immune Response to Fungal Necrotrophs Attack
Authors: Ortega-Cuadros Mailen , Aligon Sophie , Arias Tatiana , Vasco-Palacios Aída M. , Rosier--Pennevert Cassandre , Rolland Aurélia , Grappin Philippe
Published: January 2024

Seeds play a vital role in the perpetuation of plant species, both in natural environments and agriculture. However, they often face challenges from biotic stresses, such as seedborne pathogenic fungi. The transgenerational transmission of these seedborne fungi, along with their dissemination during seed commercialization, can contribute to the emergence of global epidemic diseases, resulting in substantial economic losses. One such pathogenic fungus is Alternaria brassicicola, responsible for causing black spot disease in Brassicaceae. This necrotrophic seedborne fungus negatively impacts plant development, consequently affecting crop production and seed quality. To gain a deeper understanding of the interaction between seeds and necrotrophic fungi, the Arabidopsis thaliana/Alternaria brassicicola model pathosystem has been extensively studied. Recent transcriptomic and genetic studies revealed a distinctive immune response of seeds against this pathogen, divergent from the immune response described in the plant vegetative phase. In germinating seeds and seedlings, the necrotrophic fungus seems to induce susceptible response [1]. It was observed at the RNA level that to the detriment of jasmonic acid pathway, Alternaria induced the salicylic acid and glucosinolate (GSL) pathways. Genetic evidence identified that seedling necrosis, potentially beneficial to the growth of the necrotrophic agent, is hypersensitive response mediated by GSL pathway. Transmission of necrotrophic fungal from seed to seedling unveils novel regulations of the immune response, that would illustrate a trade-off between seedling establishment and fungal infection. This knowledge is promising to sustainably ensure the sanitary quality of crops.
Psychometric Properties of the Greek Jefferson Scale of Empathy—Student Version among Undergraduate Medical Students and its Association with Potential Predictors
Authors: Voultsos Polychronis , Galanis Petros , Dafni Marianna-Foteini Α. , Velonaki Venetia-Sofia , Andreou Georgia-Neta , Kovatsi Leda
Published: January 2024

The present study aimed to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Greek version of the Jefferson Scale of Empathy—Student version (JSE-S) and its association with potential predictors among Greek-speaking undergraduate medical students. This study adopted a cross-sectional, comparative–descriptive research design. The study was conducted during October and November 2023. Cronbach’s α for the JSE-S was 0.846. Cronbach’s α values for the factors “perspective taking”, “compassionate care”, and “standing in the patient’s shoes” were 0.800, 0.715, and 0.748, respectively. The intraclass correlation coefficient for the JSE-S score in the test–retest study was 0.827 (95% CI = 0.647 to 0.915, p-value < 0.001), indicating a high level of reliability. The participants showed moderate empathy levels. Females scored higher than males on the Greek version of the JSE-S (108.8 vs. 102.8, p-value < 0.001). Moreover, students enrolled in the fourth academic year showed higher empathy mean scores than those enrolled in the first year (108.6 vs. 103.6, p-value = 0.012). Statistically significant empathy differences by specialty preferences or faith in God/supreme power were not found. The present study provided satisfactory evidence that the Greek JSE-S is a psychometrically sound measurement instrument. Empathy differences by gender were found in line with prior literature.
Coumarins in Spirit Beverages: Sources, Quantification, and Their Involvement in the Quality, Authenticity and Food Safety
Authors: Oliveira-Alves Sheila , Lourenço Sílvia , Fernandes Tiago A. , Canas Sara
Published: January 2024

This comprehensive review is devoted to an under-exploited family of phenolic compounds, the coumarins, and the most relevant strands in which they are involved in some spirit beverages – wine spirit, brandy, whiskey, sugar cane spirits (rum and cachaça) and grape marc spirit – with great importance worldwide in terms of production, trade and consumption. It gathers the key discoveries on the topic considering the production process of each spirit beverage, the related sources of coumarins (different kinds of wood used in the ageing stage) along with the factors that govern them and can influence the sensory properties of the aged beverages. An overview of the analytical methods available for their identification/quantification is also included, as well as the corresponding trends for the advancement of knowledge in this field. Moreover, the remarkable role of coumarins as nutraceuticals, their importance as chemical markers for authenticity purposes, and their relationship with food safety of these spirit beverages are also addressed, highlighting the current gaps and issues, and providing clues for future research.
Retreatment Strategies for Cases Containing Calcium Silicate-Based Root Canal Sealer: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Al akam Hussain , Kim Hyeon-Cheol , Jeong Ji Wook
Published: January 2024

This review explores the field of retreatment strategies for the cases filled with calcium
silicate-based root canal sealers. Since the introduction of calcium silicate-based materials in dentistry,
calcium silicate-based root canal sealers have become popular among dentists because of their biocom-
patibility, bioactivity, and sealing ability. Therefore, effective retreatment strategies are indispensable.
This article aims to identify the challenges associated with the removal of calcium silicate-based
sealers itself and gutta-percha with the sealers during retreatment, evaluate current techniques and
materials, and provide future directions for research in this field. Regarding the strategies of removal
of root canal sealers, calcium silicate-based sealers are still relatively new materials for clinicians
compared with the traditional sealers such as epoxy- or eugenol-based sealers. First, no clinically
established solvents have been reported. Second, calcium silicate-based sealers are currently utilized
by clinicians in either cold sealer-based technique or warm vertical condensation technique. Third, the
setting process of calcium silicate-based sealers generates byproducts primarily calcium hydroxide
and secondarily hydroxyapatite, which could interact with dentine. Lastly, there is a lack of clinical
studies evaluating the efficacy of retreatment protocols for teeth filled with calcium silicate-based
sealers. Therefore, it is important to investigate chemo-mechanical properties of calcium silicate-
based sealers itself and their reactions to solvents and/or mechanical instruments, and identify the
interfacial properties of calcium silicate-based sealers in respect to dentine and gutta-percha. In
addition, researchers in clinical field need to actively gather and report data on retreatments of teeth
filled with calcium silicate-based sealers.
A Synergistic Dual-Functional Silver-Manganese Dioxide-CNTs Ternary Composite Electrocatalyst for Solid-State Zinc-Air Battery
Authors: Zhang Guoqing , Cao Tuanwu , Zhang Peng , Kong Shuying , Jin Binbin
Published: January 2024

Exploring effective oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) electrocatalysts is crucial for progress in solid-state alkaline zinc-air batteries (ZAB). In this paper, silver-manganese dioxide-carbon nanotubes (SMC) ternary composites, which function as Electrocatalyst for air Electrodes, was produced via the pyrolysis of silver permanganate under microwave irradiation in one step. A scanning electron microscope (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and an energy dispersion spectrometer (EDS) have consistently determined that SMC consists of silver and alpha-manganese dioxide, which anchored on the surface of CNTs. Through polarization and chronoamperometery curves, the electrocatalytic activity of SMC for ORR was examined. The results reveal that SMC has higher catalytic activity than the chemically produced electrocatalyst for ORR in alkaline condition. Finally, a solid-state zinc-air cell with an electrocatalyst was constructed and tested. Constant current discharge curve of the zinc-air cell with SMC has a long discharge voltage plateau and a 60.03 mAh capacity at 30 mA · cm−2 . The mechanism of improvement in electrocatalytic activity was also discussed. In a summary, the strategy described in this study and the electrocatalyst produced can be regarded as an effective method for making a robust oxygen reduction catalyst toward solid-state zinc-air batteries.
Why the Gregorian Calendar is Unscientific and the Vaidika Pañcāṅga is Mathematically Accurate
Authors: Ganguly (Tirtha) Tirthendu
Published: January 2024

The article suggests that the the Gregorian calendar is unscientific and ivestiagtes why the Vaidika Pañcāṅga is mathematically accurate. It is a qualitative study and the library method of research has been carried out to support the claims. For Indic words, the International Alphabet for Sanskrit Transliteration (IAST) method is used.
Cross-Feature Transfer Learning For Efficient Tensor Program Generation
Authors: Verma Gaurav , Raskar Siddhisanket , Emani Murali , Chapman Barbara
Published: January 2024

Tuning tensor program generation involves navigating a vast search space to find optimal program transformations and measurements for a program on target hardware. The complexity of this process is further amplified by the exponential combinations of transformations, especially in heterogeneous environments. This research addresses these challenges by introducing a novel approach that learns the joint neural network and hardware features space, facilitating knowledge transfer to new, unseen target hardware. A comprehensive analysis is conducted on the existing state-of-the-art dataset, TenSet, including a thorough examination of test split strategies and the proposal of methodologies for dataset pruning. Leveraging an attention-inspired technique, we tailor the tuning of tensor programs to embed both neural network and hardware-specific features. Notably, our approach substantially reduces the dataset size by up to 53% compared to the baseline without compromising Pairwise Comparison Accuracy (PCA). Furthermore, our proposed methodology demonstrates competitive or improved mean inference times with only 25%40% of the baseline tuning time across various networks and target hardware. The attention-based tuner can effectively utilize schedules learned from previous hardware program measurements to optimize tensor program tuning on previously unseen hardware, achieving a top-5 accuracy exceeding 90%. This research introduces a significant advancement in auto-tuning tensor program generation, addressing the complexities associated with heterogeneous environments and showcasing promising results regarding efficiency and accuracy.