bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Label-Free Electrochemical Sensing Using Glassy Carbon Electrodes Modified with Multiwalled-Carbon Nanotubes Non-Covalently Functionalized with Human Immunoglobulin G
Authors: Mujica Michael López , Tamborelli Alejandro , Dalmasso Pablo , Rivas Gustavo
Published: December 2023

This work reports new analytical applications of glassy carbon electrodes (GCE) modified with a nanohybrid obtained by non-covalent functionalization of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) with human immunoglobulin G (IgG) (GCE/MWCNT-IgG). We report the label-free and non-amplified breast cancer 1 gen (BRCA1) biosensing based on the facilitated adsorption of the DNA probe at the nanohybrid modified GCE and the impedimetric detection of the hybridization event in the presence of the redox marker benzoquinone/hydroquinone. The resulting genosensor made the fast, highly selective, and sensitive quantification of BRCA1 gene possible, with a linear range between 1.0 fM and 10.0 nM, a sensitivity of (3.0 ± 0.1) × 102 Ω M−1 (R2 = 0.9990), a detection limit of 0.3 fM, and excellent discrimination of fully non-complementary and mismatch DNA sequences. The detection of BRCA1 in enriched samples of diluted human blood serum showed a recovery percentage of 94.6%. Another interesting analytical application of MWCNT-IgG-modified GCE based on the catalytic activity of the exfoliated MWCNTs is also reported for the simultaneous quantification of dopamine and uric acid in the presence of ascorbic acid, with detection limits at submicromolar levels for both compounds.
Arterial Presumed Perinatal Ischemic Stroke: A Mini Review and Case Report of Cognitive and Speech-Language Profiles in a 5-Year-Old Girl
Authors: Bogavac Ivana , Jeličić Ljiljana , Marisavljević Maša , Bošković Matić Tatjana , Subotić Miško
Published: December 2023

Arterial presumed perinatal ischemic stroke is a type of perinatal stroke that emerges due to late or delayed diagnostics of perinatal or neonatal arterial ischemic stroke. It is usually recognized before one year of life due to hemiparesis. This injury may lead to cognitive, behavioral, or motor symptoms, and life-long neurodevelopmental disabilities. In this case report, we describe a five-year-old girl with a history of arterial presumed perinatal ischemic stroke in the left hemisphere, which adversely affected her cognitive and language outcomes. The girl’s cognitive development has been uneven, ranging from below average to average, and she had specific language acquisition deficits in comprehension, vocabulary, morphology, use of complex syntax, and narrative structure. The obtained results point to the specificity of each child whose development is influenced not only by the timing of the brain lesion and the degree of damage, but also by the child’s neurobiological capacity. In addition, we provide an updated review of the literature that includes information on epidemiology, risk factors, diagnostics, clinical manifestations, outcomes, and potential therapies. The present article highlights the importance of early intervention and systematic monitoring of children with perinatal stroke with the aim of improving the child’s development.
The Influence of Body Composition on Sagittal Plane Posture among Elementary School-Aged Children
Authors: Jorgić Bojan , Đorđević Stefan , Hadžović Miljan , Milenković Saša , Stojiljković Nenad , Olanescu Mihai , Peris Miruna , Suciu Adrian , Popa Danut , Plesa Alin
Published: December 2023

Proper posture, characterized by the appropriate alignment of the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar segments of the spine, enables these regions to maintain their normal curvature. Body composition is recognized as one of the factors that can influence overall postural alignment of the spine. The objective of this study was to determine the influence of the parameters of body composition on the prevalence of postural disorders in the sagittal plane. The cross-sectional study was conducted on 152 children of both genders (78 boys), at a mean age of 11 years ± 6 months. In order to evaluate postural disorders, the Formetric 4D System, a tool manufactured by Diers, Schlangenbad, Germany was used. Based on its output data, the following variables were obtained: hyperkyphosis, hyperlordosis, kypholordosis, flatback, and normal alignment of the body in the sagittal plane. The evaluation of body composition parameters was conducted using the InBody 770 device. To determine how body composition influences the postural status of the spinal column, a discriminant analysis was employed. The results showed that approximately 65.8% of children exhibit various types of postural disorders when assessing the alignment of the spine in the sagittal plane. The most prevalent disorder observed was hyperkyphosis, affecting 34.2% of the subjects, followed by kypholordosis at 16.4%. Moreover, the results demonstrated that body composition significantly influences body posture (p = 0.004). An increase in fat mass corresponds to a deviation from normal body posture, whereas an increase in the percentage of skeletal muscle mass and fat-free mass is associated with a reduction in postural abnormalities in the sagittal plane. Considering the results, it is clear that body composition parameters serve as more reliable predictors of the influence on body posture compared to simply calculating the body mass index. Furthermore, it can be concluded that there are consistent patterns of influence by specific body composition parameters, including fat mass, percentage of skeletal muscle, and fat-free mass, on body posture among children from various climates. These results underscore the significance of implementing strength exercises in children, particularly during periods of rapid growth and development, as a means of preventing and correcting postural disorders.
Improved Cellulase Production of Trichoderma reesei by Regulating Mycelium Morphology
Authors: Jiang Fangting , Tian Jiudong , Yuan Jie , Wang Shengjie , Bao Tongtong , Chen Qiuhui , Gao Le , Li Jinyang , Ma Lijuan
Published: December 2023

The small GTPases of the Rho family are known to regulate various biological processes in filamentous fungi. In this study, we investigated the impact of deleting Rho proteins on the growth and cellulase production of Trichoderma reesei. Our findings revealed that deletion of cdc42 led to the most severe growth defect and impaired cellulase production. Conversely, overexpression of cdc42 resulted in a hyperbranched phenotype, significantly enhancing cellulase production. Furthermore, the cdc42-overexpressing (OCdc42) strain showed an increased expression of multiple cellulase genes and Rho GTPase genes. Analysis of the secretome in the OCdc42 strain unveiled an increased abundance and diversity of extracellular proteins compared to the parent strain. These discoveries provide valuable insights into the functionality of Rho GTPases in T. reesei and offer potential targets for engineering fungi to improve plant biomass deconstruction in biorefineries.
Microwave Treatment vs. Conventional Pasteurization: The Effect on Phytochemical and Microbiological Quality for Citrus–Maqui Beverages
Authors: Salar Francisco J. , Díaz-Morcillo Alejandro , Fayos-Fernández José , Monzó-Cabrera Juan , Sánchez-Bravo Paola , Domínguez-Perles Raúl , Fernández Pablo S. , García-Viguera Cristina , Periago Paula M.
Published: December 2023

This study uncovered the impacts of microwave (MW) treatments compared to conventional pasteurization (TP) on the quality of functional citrus–maqui beverages, with added sucrose or stevia. The influence of these thermal treatments on the microbiological burden and phytochemical composition was determined by processing under two MW power levels (600 W and 800 W) and TP at 85 °C for 15 s for 60 days at room temperature (20 °C). The results indicated that, beyond the microbiological quality achieved in the juices treated by both MW and TP technology, there were no differences among the treatments regarding the stability of vitamin C, anthocyanin, and flavanone concentrations. However, anthocyanins were more stable in those beverages with sucrose added, rendering a better red color. Besides, all treatments ensured microbiological stability throughout the entire storage time. In conclusion, MW treatment could be considered as an alternative to TP, which ensures microbial safety, protecting functional compounds associated with health effects.
Assessment of the Physicochemical, Antioxidant, Microbial, and Sensory Attributes of Yogurt-Style Products Enriched with Probiotic-Fermented Aronia melanocarpa Berry Juice
Authors: Plessas Stavros , Mantzourani Ioanna , Terpou Antonia , Bekatorou Argyro
Published: December 2023

The aim(目的) of this study was to create(创建) various formulations of yogurt enriched with freeze(冻结)-dried adjuncts, namely(即) (i) probiotic Lactobacillus plantarum ATCC 14917 culture(文化), and (ii) L. plantarum ATCC 14917 fermented black chokeberry juice, along with a commercial(商业) starter culture(文化). The goal was to enhance(提高) functionality and optimize the nutritional(营养) value(价值) of the products. These new yogurt-style(风格) formulations were subsequently(随后) compared with commercially produced yogurt. All products demonstrated(演示) favorable(有利) physicochemical properties, and the probiotic strain(应变) consistently(一贯) maintained viable(可行) levels exceeding 7 log(日志) cfu/g throughout(遍及) the entire(整个) storage(存储) period(时期). The fermented milk produced with the adjunct-free L. plantarum cells, as well as the yogurt produced with the proposed(提出) lactobacilli-fermented chokeberry juice, exhibited the highest lactic acid(酸) production(生产) (1.44 g/100 g yogurt by the end of storage(存储)). Levels of syneresis were observed at lower(较低) values(价值) in yogurt produced with freeze(冻结)-dried fermented chokeberry juice. Yogurts prepared(准备) with the lactobacilli-fermented freeze(冻结)-dried chokeberry juice displayed elevated total(总) phenolic content(内容) and antioxidant capacity(容量) (25.74 µg GAE/g and 69.05 µmol TE/100 g, respectively(分别)). Furthermore, sensory tests revealed a distinctive(鲜明) fruity flavor(风味) in samples incorporating fermented juice. The results demonstrate(演示) that probiotic L. plantarum-fermented chokeberry juice enhances(提高) both the antioxidant capacity(容量) and the viability of beneficial(有益) bacteria(细菌) in yogurt while it can be readily(欣然) applied and commercialized, especially in the form of a freeze(冻结)-dried formulation.
Effects of Supplemental Potassium on the Growth, Photosynthetic Characteristics, and Ion Content of Zoysia matrella under Salt Stress
Authors: Zhang Ling , Jiang Qiaofeng , Zong Junqin , Guo Hailin , Liu Jianxiu , Chen Jingbo
Published: December 2023

Potassium is crucial in plant metabolism processes, and sufficient potassium can improve plant tolerance to abiotic stress. We studied the effects of different KCl concentration treatments (0, 1, 5, 20 mM) on the biomass, photosynthetic characteristics, and ion content of Zoysia matrella under salt stress (NaCl 300 mM). The results showed that the plant dry weight, stomatal conductance, transpiration rate, photosynthesis rate, K+ content in plants, and K+/Na+ ratio in leaves of Zoysia matrella under NaCl stress were significantly lower than those under no NaCl conditions. The addition of K can promote an increase in plant dry weight and significantly improve the stomatal conductance, transpiration rate, and photosynthesis rate of plants. In addition, under salt stress, the addition of 20 mM KCl can significantly reduce the accumulation of Na+ in plants and promote the secretion of Na+ in leaves, thus improving the salt tolerance of Zoysia matrella.
Towards Zero Phrenic Nerve Injury in Reoperative Pediatric Cardiac Surgery: The Value of Intraoperative Phrenic Nerve Stimulation
Authors: Said Sameh M. , Mashadi Ali H. , Salem Mahmoud I. , Narasimhan Shanti L.
Published: December 2023

Background: Phrenic nerve injury is a devastating complication that results in significant morbidity and mortality. We developed a novel technique to localize the phrenic nerve and evaluate its success. Methods: Two groups of children underwent repeat sternotomy for a variety of indications. Group I (69 patients, nerve stimulator) and Group II (78 patients, no nerve stimulator). Results: There was no significant difference in the mean age and weight between the two groups: (6.4 ± 6.5 years vs. 5.6 ± 6.4 years; p = 0.65) and (25.2 ± 24.1 vs. 22.6 ± 22.1; p = 0.69), respectively. The two groups were comparable in the following procedures: pulmonary conduit replacement, bidirectional cavopulmonary anastomosis, aortic arch repair, and Fontan, while Group I had more pulmonary arterial branch reconstruction (p = 0.009) and Group II had more heart transplant patients (p = 0.001). There was no phrenic nerve injury in Group I, while there were 13 patients who suffered phrenic nerve injury in Group II (p < 0.001). No early mortality in Group I, while five patients died prior to discharge in Group II. Eleven patients underwent diaphragm plication in Group II (p = 0.001). The mean number of hours on the ventilator was significantly higher in Group II (137.3 ± 324.9) compared to Group I (17 ± 66.9), p < 0.001. Group II had a significantly longer length of ICU and hospital stays compared to Group I (p = 0.007 and p = 0.006 respectively). Conclusion: Phrenic nerve injury in children continues to be associated with significant morbidities and increased length of stay. The use of intraoperative phrenic nerve stimulator can be an effective way to localize the phrenic nerve and avoid its injury.
The COVID-19 Pandemic Decreases Cardiorespiratory Fitness: A 3-Year Follow-Up Study in Industry
Authors: Skare Øivind , Mamen Asgeir , Skogstad Marit
Published: December 2023

Background: We aimed to determine if maximal oxygen uptake (V˙O2max), resting heart rate (RHR), and self-reported leisure- time moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) changed over a 3-year follow-up (FU) among industrial workers. Methods: We assessed cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) August 2018 and August 2021. The last 17–18 months coincided with the COVID-19 pandemic. Data from 86 participants were collected; demographics by questionnaire and cardiovascular outcomes from medical examination: V˙O2max, RHR, and fat mass (%). Workers reported on their leisure-time MVPA twice. To assess changes in health outcomes we applied a linear mixed model, adjusting for baseline (BL) age, sex, pack-years, shift work, and a 5-month plant shutdown. Further, we adjusted for actual age instead of BL age. Results: V˙O2max decreased from 39.6 mL/kg/min at BL to 34.0 at FU, a reduction of 5.6 mL/kg/min (95%CI, −7.6, −3.7). Adjusted for actual age, the corresponding figure for V˙O2max was 5.4 mL/kg/min, (95%CI, −7.4, −3.4), an annual loss of 4.6%. RHR increased from 61.3 to 64.4 beats per minute (95%CI, 0.8, 5.4). Self-reported MVPA decreased by 43.9 min/week, (95%CI, −73.5, −14.4). Conclusions: We observed a decrease in V˙O2max, an increase in RHR and a decrease in self-reported MVPA, suggesting physical inactivity during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Upper First and Second Molar Pulp Chamber Endodontic Anatomy Evaluation According to a Recent Classification: A Cone Beam Computed Tomography Study
Authors: Reda Rodolfo , Di Nardo Dario , Zanza Alessio , Bellanova Valentina , Abbagnale Rosemary , Pagnoni Francesco , D’Angelo Maurilio , Pawar Ajinkya M. , Galli Massimo , Testarelli Luca
Published: December 2023

(1) The possibility of knowing information about the anatomy in advance, in particular the arrangement of the endodontic system, is crucial for successful treatment and for avoiding complications during endodontic therapy; the aim was to find a correlation between a minimally invasive and less stressful endodontic access on Ni-Ti rotary instruments, but which allows correct vision and identification of anatomical reference points, simplifying the typologies based on the shape of the pulp chamber in coronal three-dimensional exam views. (2) Based on the inclusion criteria, 104 maxillary molars (52 maxillary first molars and 52 maxillary second molars) were included in the study after 26 Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) acquisitions (from 15 males and 11 females). And linear measurements were taken with the CBCT-dedicated software for subsequent analysis. (3) The results of the present study show data similar to those already published about this topic. Pawar and Singh’s simplified classification actually seems to offer a schematic way of classification that includes almost all of the cases that have been analyzed. (4) The use of a diagnostic examination with a wide Field of View (FOV) and low radiation dose represents an exam capable of obtaining a lot of clinical information for endodontic treatment. Nevertheless, the endodontic anatomy of the upper second molar represents a major challenge for the clinician due to its complexity both in canal shape and in ramification.
A Method for Clustering and Analyzing Vessel Sailing Routes Efficiently from AIS Data Using Traffic Density Images
Authors: Mou Fangli , Fan Zide , Li Xiaohe , Wang Lei , Li Xinming
Published: December 2023

A vessel automatic identification system (AIS) provides a large amount of dynamic vessel information over a large coverage area and data volume. The AIS data are a typical type of big geo-data with high dimensionality, large noise, heterogeneous densities, and complex distributions. This poses a challenge for the clustering and analysis of vessel sailing routes. This study proposes an efficient vessel sailing route clustering and analysis method based on AIS data that uses traffic density images to transform the clustering problem of complex AIS trajectories into an image processing problem. First, a traffic density image is constructed based on the statistics of the preprocessed AIS data. Next, the main sea route regions of traffic density images are extracted based on local image features, geometric structures, and spatial features. Finally, the sailing trajectories are clustered using the extracted sailing patterns. Based on actual vessel AIS data, multimethod comparisons and performance analysis experiments are conducted to verify the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed method. These experimental results reveal that the proposed method displays potential for the clustering task of challenging vessel sailing routes.
Breaking Barriers—The Intersection of AI and Assistive Technology in Autism Care: A Narrative Review
Authors: Iannone Antonio , Giansanti Daniele
Published: December 2023

(Background) Autism increasingly requires a multidisciplinary approach that can effectively harmonize the realms of diagnosis and therapy, tailoring both to the individual. Assistive technologies (ATs) play an important role in this context and hold significant potential when integrated with artificial intelligence (AI). (Objective) The objective of this study is to analyze the state of integration of AI with ATs in autism through a review. (Methods) A review was conducted on PubMed and Scopus, applying a standard checklist and a qualification process. The outcome reported 22 studies, including 7 reviews. (Key Content and Findings) The results reveal an early yet promising interest in integrating AI into autism assistive technologies. Exciting developments are currently underway at the intersection of AI and robotics, as well as in the creation of wearable automated devices like smart glasses. These innovations offer substantial potential for enhancing communication, interaction, and social engagement for individuals with autism. Presently, researchers are prioritizing innovation over establishing a solid presence within the healthcare domain, where issues such as regulation and acceptance demand increased attention. (Conclusions) As the field continues to evolve, it becomes increasingly clear that AI will play a pivotal role in bridging various domains, and integrated ATs with AI are positioned to act as crucial connectors.
Reconstruction of Spatial–Temporal Changes in Cropland Cover from 1650 to 1980 in Taiyuan City
Authors: Li Meng , Wei Xueqiong , Li Beibei
Published: December 2023

As a crucial component of studies on land use and cover change (LUCC), the reconstruction of historical cropland cover is important for assessing human impact on the environment. This study collects cropland records of each county in Taiyuan City based on historical documents, agricultural statistics, and survey data such as the Gazetteers, Agriculture and Commercial Statistics Table and Datasets of Land and Resources of China. The cropland area at the county level from 1650 to 1980 is determined by revising, correcting, and extrapolating the obtained historical records. By assessing the driving physiogeographic factors for the distribution of cropland through GeoDetector, we establish a land suitability-based gridded allocation model. The cropland areas at the county level are allocated into 1 km × 1 km grid cells. Our results indicated the following. (1) The total cropland area increased since the Qing Dynasty, reaching its maximum value in 1937, after which it declined due to the impact of urbanization after 1937. (2) In terms of the spatial distribution patterns of cropland, from 1650 to 1980, the cropland was mainly distributed in the Fenhe River Valley Plain, and the cropland expanded from the center to the south after 1952. (3) Comparing the reconstruction results for 1980 with the 1 km resolution satellite-based cropland cover data, differences of most (95.77%) grids are between −20% and +20%, comparing the HYDE3.2 dataset with our results. The HYDE3.2 dataset is distinctly lower than our datasets, and the grids with large differences are mainly in the central and southern parts of the study area, especially in the Qing Dynasty. Our reconstruction could evaluate the accuracy of the global dataset when applied to regional areas and serve as base data in studying historical climate change.
Delta Calculus on Time Scale Formulas That Are Similar to Hilbert-Type Inequalities
Authors: Rezk Haytham M. , Valdés Juan E. Nápoles , Ali Maha , Saied Ahmed I. , Zakarya Mohammed
Published: December 2023

In this article, we establish some new generalized inequalities of the Hilbert-type on time scales’ delta calculus, which can be considered similar to formulas for inequalities of Hilbert type. The major innovation point is to establish some dynamic inequalities of the Hilbert-type on time scales’ delta calculus for delta differentiable functions of one variable and two variables. In this paper, we use the condition aj(sj)=0 and aj(sj,zj)=aj(wj,nj)=0, ∀j=1,2,…,n. These inequalities will be proved by applying Hölder’s inequality, the chain rule on time scales, and the mean inequality. As special cases of our results (when T=N and T=R), we obtain the discrete and continuous inequalities. Also, we can obtain other inequalities in different time scales, like T=qZ−, q>1.
On the Bias of the Unbiased Expectation Theory
Authors: França Renato , Gaspar Raquel M.
Published: December 2023

The unbiased expectation theory stipulates that long-term interest rates are determined by the market’s expectations of future short-term interest rates. According to this hypothesis, if investors have unbiased expectations about future interest rate movements, the forward interest rates should be good predictors of future spot interest rates. This hypothesis of the term structure of interest rates has long been a subject of debate due to empirical and theoretical challenges. Despite extensive research, a satisfactory explanation for the observed systematic difference between future spot interest rates and forward interest rates has not yet been identified. In this study, we approach this issue from an arbitrage theory perspective, leveraging on the connection between the expectation hypothesis and changes in probability measures. We propose that the observed bias can be explained by two adjustments: a risk premia adjustment, previously considered in the literature, and a stochastic adjustment that has been overlooked until now resulting from two measure changes. We further demonstrate that for specific instances of the Vasicek and Cox, as well as the Ingersoll and Ross, stochastic interest rate models, quantifying these adjustments reveals that the stochastic adjustment plays a significant role in explaining the bias, and ignoring it may lead to an overestimation of the required risk premia/aversion adjustment. Our findings extend beyond the realm of financial economic theory to have tangible implications for interest rate modelling. The capacity to quantify and distinguish between risk and stochastic adjustments empowers modellers to make more informed decisions, leading to a more accurate understanding of interest rate dynamics over time.
Risk Evaluation of Elevators Based on Fuzzy Theory and Machine Learning Algorithms
Authors: Pan Wei , Xiang Yi , Gong Weili , Shen Haiying
Published: December 2023

Elevators have become an integral part of modern buildings, and technological advances have enabled the monitoring of their operational status through sensor technology. In response to the development of the elevator industry and the need for practical elevator operation risk evaluation, this paper proposes an elevator risk evaluation method based on fuzzy theory and machine learning methods. The method begins by establishing an elevator operation risk evaluation index system. The traditional fuzzy comprehensive evaluation method is then employed to evaluate the risk levels of the 50 elevators studied. The collected index data and labels (fuzzy comprehensive evaluation results) are used as inputs to train the support vector machine (SVM) model. To optimize the SVM model, the maximum information coefficient method, enhanced by the correlation-based feature selection (MIC-CFS) method, is employed to select features for the index input to the SVM model. The improved gray wolf algorithm (IGWO) method optimizes the SVM. Finally, the model’s performance is verified using new index data. The experimental results demonstrate that introducing machine learning methods for elevator risk evaluation saves time and effort while providing good accuracy compared to the traditional expert evaluation method. The optimization of the SVM model by IGWO and feature selection by the MIC-CFS method results in a more concise SVM model that converges faster during training, exhibits better stability, and achieves higher accuracy.
Enhancing Sleep Quality: Assessing the Efficacy of a Fixed Combination of Linden, Hawthorn, Vitamin B1, and Melatonin
Authors: De Simone Matteo , De Feo Rosario , Choucha Anis , Ciaglia Elena , Fezeu Francis
Published: December 2023

Sleep is essential for overall health, yet various sleep disorders disrupt normal sleep patterns, affecting duration, quality, and timing. This pilot study investigate the impact of a food supplement (SPINOFF®) on both sleep quality and mental well-being in 41 participants (mean age: 45.3 years). Initial assessments revealed sleep disturbances (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index—PSQ—mean score: 8.2) and insomnia symptoms (Insomnia Severity Index—ISI— mean score: 12.7). Mental health assessments showed psychological distress (Dass-21 Depression mean score: 4.2, Anxiety mean score: 6.9, Stress mean score: 11.6, Total mean score: 22.7). This study assessed sleep continuity using Awakenings per Night (ApN) via a smartwatch (HELO HEALTH®) and conducted the study in two phases: baseline (T0) and after 30 days of treatment (T1) (Phase A). No placebo-control was used in this study. After 30 days (Phase B), 21 patients were selected for reassessment. Eleven continued treatment for another 30 days (T2), while ten discontinued. Following the intervention, we observed remarkable improvements in sleep quality and mental distress. The SPINOFF® supplement significantly reduced the PSQI scores (22.4%), indicating enhanced sleep quality. Additionally, there was a 19.6% decrease in ISI scores, demonstrating a reduction in insomnia symptoms. Moreover, overall psychological distress decreased by 19.5% signifying improved psychological well-being. In the second phase, participants who continued treatment experienced more substantial improvements, with a mean decrease of 0.8 points in PSQI scores (±0.9) and a mean decrease of 0.9 points in ISI scores. Our findings suggest that the SPINOFF® supplement has the potential to effectively address both sleep disturbances and psychological distress in our study population.
The Molecular Detection of Bacterial Infections of Public Health Importance in Hard Tick (Ixodidae) Nymphs Collected from the Forest Fringes of Western Ghats in the Goa, Karnataka and Maharashtra States of India
Authors: Ragini Gnanasekar , Raju Hari , Krishnamoorthi Ranganathan , Elango Ayyanar , Muthukumaravel Subramanian , Kumar Ashwani
Published: December 2023

A survey was conducted to determine the human tick-borne bacterial infections in the nymphs which were collected from Western Ghats’ fringe forest areas. Tick nymphs were collected using the flagging method from the villages where cases Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD) were previously reported in the states of Goa, Karnataka and Maharashtra. A total of 200 tick pools consisting of 4587 nymphs were tested by PCR for the detection of bacteria of public health importance, such as Coxiella burnetii and Rickettsia spp. Of these, four pools (4.8%) in Karnataka and three pools (4.4%) in Maharashtra were positive for Coxiella burnetii, while none of the samples from Goa state were positive. Rickettsia spp. were positively obtained from Maharashtra (51.5%), Goa (35.42%) and Karnataka (26.19%). The sequence results of Rickettsia spp. showed similarity to the spotted fever group Candidatus Rickettsia shennongii, Rickettsia conorii subsp. heilongjiangensis and Rickettsia spp. strain koreansis. Individuals are entering into the forest areas for various reasons are more likely to infect with Coxiella burnetii. and Rickettsia spp.
Microecological Shifts in the Rhizosphere of Perennial Large Trees and Seedlings in Continuous Cropping of Poplar
Authors: Sui Junkang , Li Chenyu , Wang Yinping , Li Xiangyu , Liu Rui , Hua Xuewen , Liu Xunli , Qi Hui
Published: December 2023

The cultivation of poplar trees is hindered by persistent cropping challenges, resulting in reduced wood productivity and increased susceptibility to soil-borne diseases. These issues primarily arise from alterations in microbial structure and the infiltration of pathogenic fungi. To investigate the impact on soil fertility, we conducted an analysis using soil samples from both perennial poplar trees and three successive generations of continuously cropped poplar trees. The quantity and community composition of bacteria and fungi in the rhizosphere were assessed using the Illumina MiSeq platform. The objective of this study is to elucidate the impact of continuous cropping challenges on soil fertility and rhizosphere microorganisms in poplar trees, thereby establishing a theoretical foundation for investigating the mechanisms underlying these challenges. The study found that the total bacteria in the BT group is 0.42 times higher than the CK group, and the total fungi is 0.33 times lower than the CK group. The BT and CK groups presented relatively similar bacterial richness and diversity, while the indices showed a significant (p < 0.05) higher fungal richness and diversity in the CK group. The fractions of Bacillus were 2.22% and 2.41% in the BT and CK groups, respectively. There was a 35.29% fraction of Inocybe in the BT group, whereas this was barely observed in the CK group. The fractions of Geopora were 26.25% and 5.99%, respectively in the BT and CK groups. Modifying the microbial community structure in soil subjected to continuous cropping is deemed as the most effective approach to mitigate the challenges associated with this agricultural practice.
Gulls in Porto Coastline as Reservoirs for Salmonella spp.: Findings from 2008 and 2023
Authors: Rodrigues Inês C. , Cristal Ana Paula , Ribeiro-Almeida Marisa , Silveira Leonor , Prata Joana C. , Simões Roméo , Vaz-Pires Paulo , Pista Ângela , Martins da Costa Paulo
Published: December 2023

Gulls act as intermediaries in the exchange of microorganisms between the environment and human settlements, including Salmonella spp. This study assessed the antimicrobial resistance and molecular profiles of Salmonella spp. isolates obtained from fecal samples of gulls in the city of Porto, Portugal, in 2008 and 2023 and from water samples in 2023. Antimicrobial susceptibility profiling revealed an improvement in the prevalence (71% to 17%) and antimicrobial resistance between the two collection dates. Two isolate collections from both 2008 and 2023 underwent serotyping and whole-genome sequencing, revealing genotypic changes, including an increased frequency in the monophasic variant of S. Typhimurium. qacE was identified in 2008 and 2023 in both water and fecal samples, with most isolates exhibiting an MDR profile. The most frequently observed plasmid types were IncF in 2008 (23%), while IncQ1 predominated in 2023 (43%). Findings suggest that Salmonella spp. circulate between humans, animals, and the environment. However, the genetic heterogeneity among the isolates from the gulls’ feces and the surface water may indicate a complex ecological and evolutionary dynamic shaped by changing conditions. The observed improvements are likely due to measures to reduce biological contamination and antimicrobial resistance. Nevertheless, additional strategies must be implemented to reduce the public health risk modeled by the dissemination of pathogens by gulls.
A Novel Detection Procedure for Mutations in the 23S rRNA Gene of Macrolide-Resistant Mycoplasma pneumoniae with Two Non-Overlapping Probes Amplification Assay
Authors: Liu Liyong , Xiang Caixin , Zhang Yiwei , He Lihua , Meng Fanliang , Gong Jie , Liu Jie , Zhao Fei
Published: December 2023

Mycoplasma pneumoniae is a significant cause of community-acquired pneumonia, which is often empirically treated with macrolides (MLs), but, presently, resistance to MLs has been a matter of close clinical concern. This assay is intended to contribute to resistance detection of M. pneumoniae in clinical practice. A novel real-time PCR assay with two non-overlapping probes on the same nucleic acid strand was designed in this study. It could effectively detect all mutation types of M. pneumoniae in 23S rRNA at loci 2063 and 2064. The results were determined by the following methods: ΔCT < 0.5 for MLs-sensitive M. pneumoniae; ΔCT > 2.0 for MLs-resistant M. pneumoniae; 10 copies as a limit of detection for all types. For detection of M. pneumoniae in 92 clinical specimens, the consistency between the results of this assay and the frequently used real-time PCR results was 95.65%. The consistency of MLs resistance results between PCR sequencing and this assay was 100% in all 43 specimens. The assay could not only cover a comprehensive range of targets and have high detection sensitivity but is also directly used for detection and MLs analysis of M. pneumoniae in specimens.
Research Advances on the Role of Lipids in the Life Cycle of Human Coronaviruses
Authors: Ding Cuiling , Chen Yibo , Miao Gen , Qi Zhongtian
Published: December 2023

Coronaviruses (CoVs) are emerging pathogens with a significant potential to cause life-threatening harm to human health. Since the beginning of the 21st century, three highly pathogenic and transmissible human CoVs have emerged, triggering epidemics and posing major threats to global public health. CoVs are enveloped viruses encased in a lipid bilayer. As fundamental components of cells, lipids can play an integral role in many physiological processes, which have been reported to play important roles in the life cycle of CoVs, including viral entry, uncoating, replication, assembly, and release. Therefore, research on the role of lipids in the CoV life cycle can provide a basis for a better understanding of the infection mechanism of CoVs and provide lipid targets for the development of new antiviral strategies. In this review, research advances on the role of lipids in different stages of viral infection and the possible targets of lipids that interfere with the viral life cycle are discussed.
A Second-Order Sliding Mode Voltage Controller with Fast Convergence for a Permanent Magnet Synchronous Generator System
Authors: Yun Qinsheng , Wang Xiangjun , Yao Chen , Zhuang Wei , Shao Menglin , Gao Haibo
Published: December 2023

This paper studies an improved super-twisting sliding mode controller (IST-SMC) for the permanent magnet synchronous generator (PMSG) voltage loop to improve the anti-disturbance capability of the system. Compared to conventional voltage controllers, the control algorithm provides advantages in terms of system resistance to load disturbances. Conventional voltage controllers have significant voltage fluctuations and long recovery times during sudden load changes. To solve this problem, a voltage loop controller based on a super-twisting sliding mode (ST-SMC) is designed to enhance the immunity of the system. Also, the ST-SMC was improved to further increase the convergence rate of the system and enhance the dynamic performance. The convergence of the system away from the balance point is accelerated by introducing an exponential term, which in turn provides an improvement in the dynamic performance of the system. The effectiveness of the proposed control scheme was verified on a PMSG.
Prospects of Processing Tungsten Ores from the Akchatau Deposit
Authors: Baimbetov Bolotpay , Moldabayeva Gulnara , Yeleuliyeva Akmaral , Jumankulova Saltanat , Taimassova Akbota , Adilzhan Zhanargul , Baisultanov Rinat , Yakob Elena , Serikbayev Valery
Published: December 2023

An overview of the composition of wolframite ores of the Akchatau deposit and the technologies for processing concentrates using NaOH and Na2CO3 by hydro- and pyrometallurgical methods is given, and the disadvantages associated with both the technology and the equipment are noted. To develop a technology for processing Akchatau wolframite concentrates, samples of ore materials were taken, the chemical and mineralogical composition of the samples was studied, and enrichment was carried out to obtain rich concentrates. The kinetics of the sintering of the wolframite concentrate with soda was investigated, the dependences of the degree of transformation of the tungsten minerals into sodium tungstate were obtained, and the rate constants, the order of the reaction, and the values of the apparent activation energy were calculated. The results of sintering an enlarged sample of wolframite concentrate with soda in a muffle furnace are presented. After the subsequent leaching, studies were carried out to purify the obtained solutions of sodium tungstate from the impurities while eliminating the operations of the neutralizing solutions through the use of electrodialysis with an MK-40 cation-exchange membrane. The scheme of processing the wolframite ores of Akchatau is proposed.
Analysis of the Parallel Seam Welding Process by Developing a Directly Coupled Multiphysics Simulation Model
Authors: Lin Yihao , Qin Yang , Gong Bilin , Yin Can , Xia Liang , Liu Ganggang , Pan Kailin , Gong Yubing
Published: December 2023

Parallel seam welding (PSW) is the most commonly employed encapsulation technology to ensure hermetic sealing and to safeguard sensitive electronic components. However, the PSW process is complicated by the presence of multiphysical phenomena and nonlinear contact problems, making the analysis of the dynamics of the PSW process highly challenging. This paper proposes a multiphysics simulation model based on direct coupling, enabling the concurrent coupling of the electric field, temperature field, and structural field to facilitate the analysis of the thermal and electrical dynamics within the PSW process. First, this paper conducts an in-depth theoretical analysis of thermal and electrical contact interactions at all contact interfaces within the PSW process, taking into account material properties related to temperature. Second, the acquired data are integrated into a geometric model encompassing electrode wheels and ceramic packaging components, facilitating a strongly coupled multiphysics simulation. Finally, the experimental results show that the simulated weld area deviates by approximately 6.5% from the actual values, and the highest component temperature in the model exhibits an approximate 10.8% difference from the actual values, thus validating the accuracy of the model. This directly coupled multiphysics simulation model provides essentially a powerful tool for analyzing the dynamic processes in the PSW process.
Energy Storage Dynamic Configuration of Active Distribution Networks—Joint Planning of Grid Structures
Authors: Luo Yiming , Tian Peigen , Yan Xin , Xiao Xi , Ci Song , Zhou Qi , Yang Yi
Published: December 2023

The integration of distributed power generation mainly consisting of photovoltaic and wind power into active distribution networks can lead to safety accidents in grid operation. At the same time, climate change can also cause voltage fluctuations, direct current injection, harmonic pollution, frequency fluctuations, and other issues. To achieve economic and safe operation of the distribution network, an active distribution network-network planning model considering the dynamic configuration of energy storage system energy storage is constructed. This model focuses on energy storage batteries with high ease of use, high modularity, and strong mobility. The route location planning involving different load operating scenarios in spring, summer, autumn, and winter is constructed. The objective function includes the revenue from selling electricity in the distribution network, the expenditure on purchasing electricity in the distribution network, and the cost during the planned construction period. The constraints include three major constraints: distribution network operation, network topology, and energy storage system operation. Three numerical examples are set up to analyze the impact of energy storage system dynamic configuration on grid planning. The results confirmed the active distribution network-grid planning model for dynamic configuration of energy storage systems. Both Example 2 and Example 3 had 3 ESS configurations. Case 3 showed different access methods for ESS in different seasons. The access nodes for ESS in spring and winter were 4, 5, and 6, while the access nodes for summer and autumn were 3, 5, and 6. After applying the proposed method, the daily energy storage investment of commercial, residential, and industrial users gradually stabilized. The reliability of electricity consumption was improved, with an improvement rate of about 40%. The research has brought considerable economic benefits to distribution network operators. It has forward-looking academic value in the joint planning of grid structures and energy storage.
Gerber-Shiu Metrics for a Bivariate Perturbed Risk Process
Authors: Boxma Onno , Hinze Fabian , Mandjes Michel
Published: December 2023

We consider a two-dimensional risk model with simultaneous Poisson arrivals of claims. Each claim of the first input process is at least as large as the corresponding claim of the second input process. In addition, the two net cumulative claim processes share a common Brownian motion component. For this model we determine the Gerber–Shiu metrics, covering the probability of ruin of each of the two reserve processes before an exponentially distributed time along with the ruin times and the undershoots and overshoots at ruin.
On the Use of Lehmann’s Alternative to Capture Extreme Losses in Actuarial Science
Authors: Gómez-Déniz  Emilio , Calderín-Ojeda  Enrique
Published: December 2023

This paper studies properties and applications related to the mixture of the class of distributions built by the Lehmann’s alternative (also referred to in the statistical literature as max-stable or exponentiated distribution) of the form [G(·)]λ, where λ>0 and G(·) is a continuous cumulative distribution function. This mixture can be useful in economics, financial, and actuarial fields, where extreme and long tails appear in the empirical data. The special case in which G(·) is the Stoppa cumulative distribution function, which is a good description of the random behaviour of large losses, is studied in detail. We provide properties of this mixture, mainly related to the analysis of the tail of the distribution that makes it a candidate for fitting actuarial data with extreme observations. Inference procedures are discussed and applications to three well-known datasets are shown.
“The Will to Survive”: The Lives of Young People with “No Papers” in the United Kingdom
Authors: Deveci Yeṣim
Published: December 2023

This article considers how undocumented youth in the UK survive and construct their everyday lives in precarious circumstances. Drawing on multiple in-depth narrative interviews with (n = 7) undocumented youth, I illustrate how these young people focus on the future and engage in purposeful activities as a way of enduring the everyday challenges of living with no papers. I reflect on the relationships, which young people draw on to enable them to endure adversity and rebuild their everyday lives. I conclude that the presence of love and community is critical for young people’s survival, safety and wellbeing, and I suggest how practitioners and researchers might make use of these findings.
Prevalence of and Factors Associated with Sports Injuries in 11,000 Japanese Collegiate Athletes
Authors: Kimura Takeshi , Mącznik Aleksandra Katarzyna , Kinoda Akira , Yamada Yuichi , Muramoto Yuki , Katsumata Yoshinori , Sato Kazuki
Published: December 2023

Background: To establish the 1-year prevalence of sports injuries and explore associations of various factors with a sports injury in Japanese collegiate athletes. Methods: The data were collected through a web-based survey of Japanese collegiate athletes associated with UNIVAS (Japan Association for University Athletics and Sport). The survey questions asked about athletes’ personal characteristics, sports participation, and injuries sustained within the previous year. Follow-up questions on the details regarding the three most serious injuries were asked. Differences in proportions of athlete characteristics between males and females and between injured and uninjured were explored with the chi-square test. Factors associated with sustaining an injury were determined with regression analysis. Results: The prevalence of injuries among Japanese collegiate athletes is high, and most of the sustained injuries require athletes to take a considerable time off training and competition indicating their severity. Athletes from year two and higher at the university, overweight or obese, training more often per week, and with longer sports experience were more likely to sustain an injury within the previous year. Conclusions: There is compelling evidence to suggest that excessive training and insufficient recovery may be contributing to their increased risk of injury. These findings underscore the importance of implementing evidence-based training programs and recovery strategies to mitigate injury risk and optimize performance outcomes among this population.