bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
NPC Seven-Level Single-Phase Inverter with DC-Link Voltage Balancing, Input Voltage Boosting, and AC Power Decoupling
Authors: Stala Robert , Hachlowski Jakub , Penczek Adam
Published: May 2022

This paper presents a novel concept of the DC-AC system with the input voltage boost ability, seven-level output voltage modulation, and the input AC current reduction at the double frequency of the output voltage. The system integrates the NPC full-bridge inverter which is composed of four-level legs and an active input voltage balancer (AIVB). The DC-link is composed of three capacitors connected in a series. The source of the energy is connected directly to the middle capacitor while the upper and lower capacitors of the DC-link are charged by the AIVB. The operation of the AIVB leads to balancing of the DC-link voltage and a three-fold boosting of the input voltage. The AIVB utilizes a novel switched-capacitor (SC) topology and can be designed as a low-volume quasi-magneticless converter with a simple open-loop control. One of the proposed methods of the control of the AIVB allows for a double frequency reduction in the input current. The application of the AIVB allows for the use of a seven-level NPC full-bridge (FB) inverter with a simple classic carrier-based PWM which is not applicable in the typical DC-link configurations. This paper presents the converter’s concept, its operation, control methods, and the results of simulations and experiments.
Renovation of Modernist Housing Developments in the Pursuit of Modernity for Well-Being and Clean Energy
Authors: Turecki Adam , Tur Marcin , Czarnecki Bartosz , Januszkiewicz Krystyna , Fiuk Piotr
Published: May 2022

The research concerns renovation variants for modernist housing estates built in Szczecin, Poland during 1918–1925 and in Bialystok, Poland during 1950–1990. These buildings are now substandard in many ways; functionally, aesthetically, technically, and ecologically they do not fulfil the current energy efficiency standards. Some of them have architectural heritage, so not all energy-saving technologies can be applied. Renovations must include energy-saving improvements and the use of renewable energy sources. Equally important is the well-being of residents, meaning the quality of the apartments should be increased. The aim of this research was to analyze the renovation options in terms of energy efficiency and well-being criteria, as well as in relation to the cultural value of the buildings. The simplified energy calculation method was used to check the present buildings’ energy demands to compare them with retrofitting results. Three retrofitting possibilities were considered: low-cost, current standards, and near-zero energy. The results show that without EU financial aid, which will soon be introduced under the “Renovation Wave” program, such modernization projects will be difficult, making the target of 55% CO2 emission reductions compared to 1990 levels by 2030 impossible.
Interrogating the Installation Gap and Potential of Solar Photovoltaic Systems Using GIS and Deep Learning
Authors: Kalyan Sumit , Sun Qian (Chayn)
Published: May 2022

Non-renewable-resource consumption and global greenhouse-gas (GHG) emissions are critical issues that pose a significant threat to sustainable development. Solar energy is a promising source to generate renewable energy and an appealing alternative electricity source for households. The primary goal of this research is to detect the rooftops that have no solar photovoltaic (PV) system deployed on them but that receive moderate to high solar-energy radiation using the Geographic Information System (GIS) and deep-learning techniques. Although various studies have been conducted on this subject, not many addressed these two issues simultaneously at a residential level. Identifying the installed solar PV systems in a large area can be expensive and time-consuming work if performed manually. Therefore, the deep-learning algorithm is an emerging alternative method to detect objects using aerial images. We employed the Single-Shot-Detector (SSD) model with the backbone of residual neural network 34 (ResNet34) to detect the solar PV systems and used GIS software to compute solar isolation and calculate the electricity production estimate (EPE) of each rooftop. Our results show that the SSD model detected 6010 solar panels on 4150 properties with an accuracy of 78% and observed that there were 176 Statistical Area 1s (SA1s) that had no rooftops with solar PV systems installed. Moreover, the total electricity production from the suitable area was estimated at over 929.8 Giga Watt-hours (GWhs) annually. Finally, the relation between solar-PV-system density and EPE was also identified using the bivariant correlation technique. Detecting the existing solar PV systems is useful in a broad range of applications including electricity-generation prediction, power-plant-production management, uncovering patterns between regions, etc. Examination of the spatial distribution of solar-energy potential in a region and performing an overlay analysis with socio-economic factors can help policymakers to understand the explanation behind the pattern and strategize the incentives accordingly.
A Novel Layered Slice Algorithm for Soil Heat Storage and Its Solving Performance Analysis
Authors: Li Guolong , Sun Dongliang , Han Dongxu , Yu Bo
Published: May 2022

According to the structural and heat transfer characteristics of soil heat storage, a novel layered slice algorithm is proposed to realize the rapid and accurate solution to the problem. The heat transfer process between the double U-tube heat exchanger and the surrounding soil is taken as an example to analyze its solving performance. The study finds that the layered slice algorithm has higher simulation precision and faster solving speed. Its maximum relative error of temperature is only 0.19%. Compared with the traditional 3D simulation algorithm, it can accelerate about 2.2~2.56 times. At the same time, the layered slice algorithm has an excellent parallel characteristic. Its maximum parallel speedup ratio is more than twice that of the traditional 3D algorithm. Due to the superior solving performance, the proposed algorithm can help the optimization design of the buried-tube heat exchangers.
Influence of the Catenary Distributed Parameters on the Resonance Frequencies of Electric Railways Based on Quantitative Calculation and Field Tests
Authors: Liu Qiujiang , Zhang Wanqi , Cao Guotao , Liu Jingwei , Ye Jingjing , Wu Mingli , Yang Shaobing
Published: May 2022

High-order harmonic resonance is a key issue in the traction power supply systems (TPSS) of electric railways for safe operation. The effective evaluation of the resonance frequency is critical for taking measures to suppress harmonic resonance. In this paper, the influence of the distributed parameters of traction networks on resonance frequencies based on accurate calculation is proposed. The quantitative assessments of the distributed impedance and admittance are investigated. Furthermore, the theoretical calculation is directly verified using field tests at a high voltage level equal to 25 kV. The results show that the resonance frequencies of the TPSS are mainly affected by the distributed parameters, including the self-admittance and self-impedance of the contact wires, and the self-admittance of the positive feeders. In addition, the admittance connected in parallel has a greater effect than the series-connected impedance. The calculation method is also adapted to TPSS connected to renewable energy.
Correction: Valerio et al. The Role of Canopy Cover Dynamics over a Decade of Changes in the Understory of an Atlantic Beech-Oak Forest. Forests 2021, 12, 938
Authors: Valerio Mercedes , Ibáñez Ricardo , Gazol Antonio
Published: May 2022

The authors wish to make the following corrections to their paper [...]
Comparing Geography and Severity of Managed Wildfires in California and the Southwest USA before and after the Implementation of the 2009 Policy Guidance
Authors: Iniguez Jose M. , Evans Alexander M. , Dadashi Sepideh , Young Jesse D. , Meyer Marc D. , Thode Andrea E. , Hedwall Shaula J. , McCaffrey Sarah M. , Fillmore Stephen D. , Bean Rachel
Published: May 2022

Managed wildfires, i.e., naturally ignited wildfires that are managed for resource benefits, have the potential to reduce fuel loads, minimize the effects of future wildfires, and restore critical natural processes across many forest landscapes. In the United States, the 2009 federal wildland fire policy guidance was designed to provide greater flexibility in the use of managed wildfires, but the effects of this policy on wildfires in the western US are not yet fully understood. Our goal was to compare managed and full suppression wildfires and to also analyze the differences between managed wildfires across space (Arizona/New Mexico and California) and time (before and after 2009) using four metrics for each wildfire: (1) distance to wilderness, (2) distance to the wildland–urban interface (WUI), (3) the percentage of area burned with high severity, and (4) the number of land management agencies. Across the study area, we found that managed wildfires were significantly closer to wilderness areas, were farther from the WUI, had a lower percentage of area that was burned at high severity, and had fewer agencies involved in managing the fire compared to full suppression wildfires. In California, managed wildfires occurred closer to wilderness and had a larger percentage of high-severity burn area compared to those in the southwest US (Arizona and New Mexico). Within each region, however, there were no significant geographic differences between managed wildfires before and after the implementation of the 2009 policy guidance. Despite the greater flexibility of the 2009 policy guidance, the basic geographic properties of managed wildfires in these two regions have not changed. As the climate warms and droughts intensify, the use of managed wildfires will need to expand during favorable weather conditions in order to address the threat of large and uncharacteristic wildfires to people and ecosystems.
Effect of Growth Ring Width and Latewood Content on Selected Physical and Mechanical Properties of Plantation Japanese Larch Wood
Authors: Wang Sidong , Chen Dongsheng , Chu Jiangyi , Jiang Jinghui
Published: May 2022

In order to evaluate the physical and mechanical properties of plantation Japanese larch wood, various physical and mechanical indicators were measured with reference to Chinese national standards. The characteristics of the growth ring on the end face of wood samples were captured, with the mean latewood percentage being 21.4% and the mean ring width being 3.24 mm. Relationships between growth ring characteristics, latewood percentages, and the physical and mechanical properties of the plantation Japanese larch wood were investigated. The results revealed that it is most appropriate to use growth ring width to evaluate MOE and MOR, and to use latewood percentage to evaluate air-dry density, radial air-dry shrinkage, IBS and UTS. Regression analysis confirmed that air-dry density (R2 = 0.99), radial shrinkage (R2 = 0.97) and UTS (R2 = 0.96) had significant positive correlations with latewood percentage, while MOE (R2 = 0.88) and MOR (R2 = 0.90) had significant negative correlations with RW. IBS was not significantly related to either characteristic. RW can be used to define juvenile wood and mature wood, with the dividing ring width being 4.85 mm. There is a large difference in MOE and MOR between the two wood types.
Comparison between Information Theoretic Measures to Assess Financial Markets
Authors: Batra Luckshay , Taneja Harish Chander
Published: May 2022

Information theoretic measures were applied to the study of the randomness associations of different financial time series. We studied the level of similarities between information theoretic measures and the various tools of regression analysis, i.e., between Shannon entropy and the total sum of squares of the dependent variable, relative mutual information and coefficients of correlation, conditional entropy and residual sum of squares, etc. We observed that mutual information and its dynamical extensions provide an alternative approach with some advantages to study the association between several international stock indices. Furthermore, mutual information and conditional entropy are relatively efficient compared to the measures of statistical dependence.
Highly Nutritional Bread with Partial Replacement of Wheat by Amaranth and Orange Sweet Potato
Authors: Calderón de la Barca Ana M. , Mercado-Gómez Luz E. , Heredia-Sandoval Nina G. , Luna-Alcocer Valeria , Porras Loaiza Patricia M. A. , González-Ríos Humberto , Islas-Rubio Alma R.
Published: May 2022

The current dietary habits cause health problems due to foods’ composition, with bread as an important example. Our aim was to formulate an optimum dough blend with flours from wheat, amaranth and orange sweet potato to obtain a physically good and highly nutritional bread. Bread was prepared with blends of wheat, amaranth and orange sweet potato flours, optimizing the technological properties of the doughs by the response surface methodology and analyzing their physical and nutritional properties. Amaranth provides protein and fiber, and sweet potatoes provide β-carotenoids and high antioxidant activity. The prediction models were adjusted by mixing time (MT), peak dough resistance (PDR), setback (SB) and breakdown (BD). The interaction between wheat and amaranth significantly (p < 0.05) affected MT, PDR and SB, while the interaction between amaranth and sweet potato affected BD (p < 0.05); none of the components influenced PDR. The optimized blend (68.7% wheat, 22.7% amaranth and 8.6% sweet potato) produced a bread with the best crust and crumb appearance. This bread was comparable to that made with 100% wheat in specific volume and textural characteristics, but had better protein quality, higher content of fermentable fiber, pro-vitamin A, and bioactive compounds with good antioxidant capacity, and a lower glycemic index.
The Comprehensive Utilization of Bean Dregs in High-Fiber Tofu
Authors: Lu Wenjing , Zhang Yue , Xiao Chaogeng , Chen Di , Ye Qin , Zhang Cen , Meng Xianghe , Wang Shengjian
Published: May 2022

A large quantity of bean dregs is produced by the production of tofu and treated as animal feed or plant fertilizer, which could cause environmental pollution. The purpose of this study was to use commercially available lactone tofu to compare the effects of innovative preparation methods of high-fiber tofu, where the innovative methods used partial de-slagging followed by the addition of soybean residue cellulose to prepare high-fiber tofu. The results showed that there were no significant differences among lactone tofu samples made with 5% cellulose, 10% cellulose, or 15% cellulose and the commercially available lactone tofu during the water-holding capacity and chroma analysis. Texture indices showed that lactone tofu with 10% cellulose was similar to the commercially available lactone tofu in chewiness and hardness, and lactone tofu with 15% cellulose was similar to the commercially available lactone tofu in adhesiveness and chewiness. Magnetic resonance imaging displayed that lactone tofu with 10% cellulose had better water retention and higher moisture content. Gel electron microscopy showed that lactone tofu with 10% cellulose achieved a better gel network, and the bean dreg cellulose had less influence to a certain extent. Volatile organic compound testing by GC-IMS method indicated that the lactone tofu with 10% cellulose had more volatile organic compound content. In conclusion, these results demonstrated that lactone tofu with 10% cellulose had the best market competitiveness in ensuring the quality of high-fiber tofu.
Silence Agreements in Danish Elderly Care: Phantasmatic Asymmetry between Care Managers and Self-Appointed Helpers with a Muslim Immigrant Background
Authors: Rytter Mikkel , Sparre Sara Lei
Published: May 2022

This paper explores the composite of elderly immigrants, self-appointed helpers (selvudpegede hjælpere) and care managers (visitatorer) in Danish municipalities. Free elderly care is a common good in the Danish welfare state. Instead of using the homecare service provided by the municipality, many elderly citizens with a Muslim immigrant background prefer to have a family member contracted as their self-appointed helper. The self-appointed helper is often a spouse, daughter or daughter-in-law, who ends up having the dual role as both a caring, loving family member and a professional care worker. Due to the special setup with self-appointed helpers working in their private homes, it is difficult for the care managers to follow standard rules and procedures. Instead, it seems to be a public secret that there is a gap between what we are supposed to do (according to the law) and what we actually do. We suggest seeing this gap as a silence agreement, where care managers, self-appointed helpers and elderly citizens refrain from asking all the critical questions (regarding the provision of care, the quality of care, working conditions, etc.) that no one wants to know the answers to. However, when the silence agreement from time to time breaks down, the relationship between the self-appointed helper and the care manager is haunted by a widespread phantasm where Muslim immigrants are cast as welfare scroungers. Basically, we argue that care managers and self-appointed helpers share a silent agreement but when it is neglected or violated, the latter end up in a vulnerable and marginalized position. The dynamic highlights the ambiguous intimate belonging of Muslim immigrant families and questions to what extent they were seen as legitimate subjects under the state in the first place.
Array Comparative Genomic Hybridisation and Droplet Digital PCR Uncover Recurrent Copy Number Variation of the TTN Segmental Duplication Region
Authors: Sagath Lydia , Lehtokari Vilma-Lotta , Pelin Katarina , Kiiski Kirsi
Published: May 2022

Intragenic segmental duplication regions are potential hotspots for recurrent copy number variation and possible pathogenic aberrations. Two large sarcomeric genes, nebulin and titin, both contain such segmental duplication regions. Using our custom Comparative Genomic Hybridisation array, we have previously shown that a gain or loss of more than one copy of the repeated block of the nebulin triplicate region constitutes a recessive pathogenic mutation. Using targeted array-CGH, similar copy number variants can be detected in the segmental duplication region of titin. Due to the limitations of the array-CGH methodology and the repetitiveness of the region, the exact copy numbers of the blocks could not be determined. Therefore, we developed complementary custom Droplet Digital PCR assays for the titin segmental duplication region to confirm true variation. Our combined methods show that the titin segmental duplication region is subject to recurrent copy number variation. Gains and losses were detected in samples from healthy individuals as well as in samples from patients with different muscle disorders. The copy number variation observed in our cohort is likely benign, but pathogenic copy number variants in the segmental duplication region of titin cannot be excluded. Further investigations are needed, however, this region should no longer be neglected in genetic analyses.
Complete Mitochondrial Genome of Malenka flexura (Plecoptera: Nemouridae) and Phylogenetic Analysis
Authors: Cao Jinjun , Guo Xuan , Guo Caiyue , Wang Xuan , Wang Ying , Yan Fengming
Published: May 2022

The genus-level relationships within the subfamily Amphinemurinae have been controversial, although attempts have been made based on morphology and limited molecular data. With the establishment of two new genera, the phylogenetic relationships within Amphinemurinae should be re-examined. In this study, the complete mitochondrial genome (mitogenome) of Malenka flexura of the genus Malenka was firstly sequenced and analyzed. The phylogeny of Amphinemurinae was also reconstructed using 13 proteincoding genes (PCGs) from previously published stoneflies. This mitogenome was 15,744 bp long and encoded the typical 37 genes, as well as a putative control region. The gene arrangement of M. flexura mitogenome is identical with the putative ancestral mitogenome in Drosophila yakuba. Most PCGs used standard ATN as start codons and TAA/TAG as termination codons. All tRNA genes exhibited the typical cloverleaf secondary structure, except for tRNASer(AGN), whose dihydrouridine (DHU) arm was lacking. Some structural elements in the control region were founded, such as tandem repeat regions, stemloop structures, polyN stretch and microsatellite structure, etc. Phylogenetic analyses of sequenced Amphinemurinae mitogenomes unsupported the sister relationship of Amphinemura and Malenka. Finally, the phylogenetic analyses inferred a relationship within Amphinemurinae: Amphinemura + (Malenka + (Protonemura + (Indonemoura + (Sphaeronemoura + Mesonemoura)))).
The Newfound Opportunities of Wearable Systems Based on Biofeedback in the Prevention of Falls. Comment on Tanwar et al. Pathway of Trends and Technologies in Fall Detection: A Systematic Review. Healthcare 2022, 10, 172
Authors: Morone Giovanni , Maccioni Giovanni , Giansanti Daniele
Published: May 2022

We are writing to you as the corresponding authors of the interesting systematic review study “Pathway of Trends and Technologies in Fall Detection: A Systematic Review” [...]
Travel to Greece and Polychromy in the 19th Century: Mutations of Ideals of Beauty and Greek Antiquities
Authors: Charitonidou Marianna
Published: May 2022

The article examines the collaborations between the pensionnaires of the Villa Medici in Rome and the members of the French School of Athens, shedding light on the complex relationships between architecture, art, and archeology. The second half of the 19th century was a period during which the exchanges and collaborations between archaeologists, artists, and architects acquired a reinvented role and a dominant place. Within such a context, Athens was the place par excellence, where the encounter between these three disciplines took place. The main objective of the article is to render explicit how the revelations of archeology, actively disseminated by the members of the French School of Athens—the “Athéniens”—had an important impact on the approach of certain pensionnaires of the Villa Medici in Rome. Particular emphasis is placed on certain pensionnaires, who decided to devote their envois to ancient monuments of Greece. In parallel, the article intends to shed light on the methods that helped the pensionnaires-architects of the Villa Medici in Rome appropriate archaeological discoveries concerning Greek antiquities. The article takes, as a starting point, the following hypothesis: to better understand the figure of the architect-archaeologist, of whom Jacques Ignace Hittorff is an emblematic example, it is pivotal to bear in mind that before the second half of the 19th century neither the figure of Hellenic archeology nor the figure of the architect had yet acquired their autonomy. Taking into account that Johann Joachim Winckelmann, in the middle of the 18th century, forged an ideal Greek model, which was criticized during the second half of the 19th century, the article also sheds light on the fact that the revelations of archaeologists have called into question the Winckelmannian image of Greece. Another aspect that is explored in the article is Jacques Ignace Hittorff’s studies concerning the polychromy of ancient Greek monuments, paying special attention to his Restitution du temple d’Empédocle à Sélinonte ou l’Architecture polychrome chez les Grecs. The article also explores how the shifts of the status of philhellenism are related to the mutations of the meaning of travel to Greece. In parallel, it investigates the impact of Greek independence on the ideals of beauty and nature in arts, as well as how Greek independence is related to the intensification of the interest in the excavations of Greek antiquities.
Disinfecting Action of Gaseous Ozone on OXA-48-Producing Klebsiella pneumoniae Biofilm In Vitro
Authors: Piletić Kaća , Kovač Bruno , Perčić Marko , Žigon Jure , Broznić Dalibor , Karleuša Ljerka , Lučić Blagojević Sanja , Oder Martina , Gobin Ivana
Published: May 2022

Klebsiella pneumoniae is an emerging multidrug-resistant pathogen that can contaminate hospital surfaces in the form of a biofilm which is hard to remove with standard disinfectants. Because of biofilm resistance to conservative disinfectants, the application of new disinfection technologies is becoming more frequent. Ozone gas has antimicrobial activity but there is lack of data on its action against K. pneumoniae biofilm. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects and mechanisms of action of gaseous ozone on the OXA-48-procuding K. pneumoniae biofilm. A 24 h biofilm of K. pneumoniae formed on ceramic tiles was subsequently exposed to different concentrations of ozone during one and two hours to determine the optimal ozone concentration. Afterwards, the total bacteria count, total biomass and oxidative stress levels were monitored. A total of 25 ppm of gaseous ozone was determined to be optimal ozone concentration and caused reduction in total bacteria number in all strains of K. pneumoniae for 2.0 log10 CFU/cm2, followed by reduction in total biomass up to 88.15%. Reactive oxygen species levels significantly increased after the ozone treatment at 182% for the representative K. pneumoniae NCTC 13442 strain. Ozone gas in the concentration of 25 ppm caused significant biofilm reduction but did not completely eradicate the K. pneumoniae biofilm formed on ceramics. In conclusion, ozone gas has great potential to be used as an additional hygiene measure in joint combat against biofilm in hospital environments.
Does Training Motivation Influence Resilience Training Outcome on Chronic Stress? Results from an Interventional Study
Authors: Niederhauser Madlaina , Zueger Regula , Sefidan Sandra , Annen Hubert , Brand Serge , Sadeghi-Bahmani Dena
Published: May 2022

Resilience is understood as an acquired skill which aids in coping with acute and chronic stress. Accordingly, the present study aimed to determine the effect of resilience training on mental health problems during chronic stress. To this end, we conducted a quasi-experimental study with 127 male cadets (mean age: 21 years) of the Swiss Armed Forces officers’ school. Whereas the intervention group (IG) received resilience training in addition to the standard officer’s education program, the control group (CG) completed the officers’ school as usual. Data assessment included pre- and post- measurement of chronic stress, symptoms of depression, and vital exhaustion in both groups. Motivation for training was collected before the first training session. Those who received the resilience training reported no change in chronic stress, whereas participants in the CG showed a significant increase in chronic stress over time (ηp2 = 0.025). Furthermore, significant differences between IG and CG were only found for symptoms of depression: Participants in the IG reported significantly decreased symptoms of depression, while this was not the case for participants in the CG. Within the IG, participants’ training motivation strongly influenced the effectiveness of the resilience training. More specifically, motivated individuals were more likely to benefit from the resilience training than unmotivated ones. Outcome data suggest that resilience training appeared to favorably affect chronic stress and related mental health symptoms; however, the motivation for the training seemed to be an essential prerequisite.
Resident Willingness to Pay for Ecosystem Services in Hillside Forests
Authors: Chen Wan-Jiun , Jan Jihn-Fa , Chung Chih-Hsin , Liaw Shyue-Cherng
Published: May 2022

This study investigated the willingness of residents to pay for ecosystem services in a hillside forest in the Lanyang River Basin, which is among the most vulnerable watersheds in Taiwan. The economic value of provisioning, regulating, cultural, and supporting ecosystem services was evaluated. The Contingent Valuation Method (CVM) was applied for economic analysis of public welfare. The determinants of the economic values were identified. A total of 444 respondents completed the questionnaire. The results revealed that the four ecosystem services had high economic value, indicating that conserving hillside forests can ensure the welfare of nearby residents. The findings of this study can serve as reference for regional land planning and social and economic system development policies. In addition, this study addressed policy implementation from the perspective of ecological economics to contribute to an improved Anthropocene.
The Effect of Professional Oral Care on the Oral Health Status of Critical Trauma Patients Using Ventilators
Authors: Choi Ma-I , Han Sun-Young , Jeon Hyun-Sun , Choi Eun-Sil , Won Seung-Eun , Lee Ye-Ji , Baek Chi-Yun , Mun So-Jung
Published: May 2022

Background: Oral care reduces the incidence of ventilator-associated pneumonia. In addition, it is important that critically ill patients to maintain their oral health in order to restore their quality of life and to receive adequate nutrition after recovery. Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of professional oral hygiene care (POHC) on the oral health status of patients using a ventilator. Methods: Fifty-seven ventilated trauma patients were admitted to a tertiary medical institution. For 5 days, the dental hygienist performed POHC every 24 h along with routine oral hygiene care (ROHC) every 8 h for the experimental group (Exp.) (n = 29), whereas only ROHC was provided the control group (Cont.) (n = 28). Oral health status was evaluated using a modified bedside oral exam (MBOE). Results: There was no significant difference between the two groups in the total MBOE score up to 48 h after admission. However, the difference between the two groups was significant for MBOE (F = 16.10, p = 0.000), gingiva (F = 6.02, p = 0.018), buccal mucosa (F = 4.21, p = 0.046), and dental plaque score after 72 h (F = 13.15, p = 0.000). Conclusion: This study confirms the importance of POHC in improving the oral health.
Assessment of On-Board and Laboratory Gas Measurement Systems for Future Heavy-Duty Emissions Regulations
Authors: Giechaskiel Barouch , Jakobsson Tobias , Karlsson Hua Lu , Khan M. Yusuf , Kronlund Linus , Otsuki Yoshinori , Bredenbeck Jürgen , Handler-Matejka Stefan
Published: May 2022

Road transport contributes significantly to air pollution in cities. Regulations across the globe continuously reduce the limits that vehicles need to respect during their lifetimes. Furthermore, more pollutants are being subject to control with new regulations and, most important, testing tends to be done under real-world conditions on the road. In this study, various portable systems were compared with laboratory-grade equipment with a wide range of emissions, focusing on the lower end, where the measurement uncertainty of the instruments is crucial for the determination of emission limits. The engines were diesel- and compressed natural gas (CNG)-fueled. The results were promising, with relatively small differences between portable emissions measurement systems (PEMSs), portable Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and quantum cascade laser infrared (QCL-IR) spectrometers, and the respective laboratory-grade analyzers based on chemiluminescence detection (CLD), non-dispersive infrared (NDIR), and FTIR principles. The results also highlighted the need for strict technical regulations regarding accuracy and drift for low emission limits in future.
Challenges Threatening Agricultural Sustainability in Central Asia: Status and Prospect
Authors: Qin Yi , He Jiawen , Wei Miao , Du Xixi
Published: May 2022

Agriculture provides humanity with the most basic products to sustain life and raw materials for production, closely linking human society and nature together. The sustainable development of agriculture, an inevitable choice to maintain long-term social stability, steady economic growth, and ecological security, is the key to the coordinated development of the economy, society, and environment in developing Central Asia economies. We attempted to evaluate the trend of agricultural sustainability in Central Asia between 2002 and 2017 by adopting analytic hierarchy process and entropy weight method in this study. It was found that the overall sustainability level of regional agriculture is rising, which is mainly driven by economic progress, with social and ecological dimensions contributing much less. Accordingly, we advanced four suggestions: enhancing water productivity, optimizing planting techniques, improving agricultural cooperatives, and promoting digital land management to boost the agricultural sustainability of the region.
What Comes after the Trial? An Observational Study of the Real-World Uptake of an E-Mental Health Intervention by General Practitioners to Reduce Depressive Symptoms in Their Patients
Authors: Löbner Margrit , Stein Janine , Luppa Melanie , Bleckwenn Markus , Mehnert-Theuerkauf Anja , Riedel-Heller Steffi G.
Published: May 2022

Unguided and free e-mental health platforms can offer a viable treatment and self-help option for depression. This study aims to investigate, from a public health perspective, the real-world uptake, benefits, barriers, and implementation support needed by general practitioners (GPs). The study presents data from a spin-off GP survey conducted 2.5 years subsequent to a cluster-randomized trial. A total of N = 68 GPs (intervention group (IG) GPs = 38, control group (CG) GPs = 30) participated in the survey (response rate 62.4%). Data were collected via postal questionnaires. Overall, 66.2% of the GPs were female. The average age was 51.6 years (SD = 9.4), and 48.5% of the GPs indicated that they continued (IG) or started recommending (CG) the e-mental health intervention under real-world conditions beyond the trial. A number of benefits could be identified, such as ease of integration and strengthening patient activation in disease management. Future implementation support should include providing appealing informational materials and including explainer videos. Workshops, conferences, and professional journals were identified as suitable for dissemination. Social media approaches were less appealing. Measures should be taken to make it easier for health care professionals to use an intervention after the trial and to integrate it into everyday practice.
The Involvement of Alarmins in the Pathogenesis of Sjögren’s Syndrome
Authors: Sarrand Julie , Baglione Laurie , Parisis Dorian , Soyfoo Muhammad
Published: May 2022

Sjögren’s syndrome (SS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects exocrine glands, primarily the salivary and lachrymal glands. It is characterized by lymphoplasmacytic infiltration of the glandular tissues, ultimately leading to their dysfunction and destruction. Besides classic dry eyes and dry mouth defined as sicca syndrome, patients affected by the disease also typically display symptoms such as fatigue, pain and in more than 50% of cases, systemic manifestations such as arthritis, interstitial lung involvement, neurological involvement and an increased risk of lymphoma. The pathophysiological mechanisms underlying SS still remain elusive. The crucial role of innate immunity has been advocated in recent years regarding the pathogenesis of pSS, especially in the initiation and progression toward autoimmunity. Alarmins are endogenous molecules that belong to the large family of damage associated molecular pattern (DAMP). Alarmins are rapidly released, ensuing cell injury and interacting with pattern recognition receptors (PRR) such as toll-like receptors (TLR) to recruit and activate cells of the innate immune system and to promote adaptive immunity responses. This review highlights the current knowledge of various alarmins and their role in the pathogenesis of pSS.
Potential Actions of Baicalein for Preventing Vascular Calcification of Smooth Muscle Cells In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Sulistyowati Erna , Hsu Jong-Hau , Lee Szu-Jung , Huang Shang-En , Sihotang Widya Yanti , Wu Bin-Nan , Dai Zen-Kong , Lin Ming-Chung , Yeh Jwu-Lai
Published: May 2022

Vascular calcification (VC) is associated with cardiovascular disease. Baicalein, a natural flavonoid extract of Scutellaria baicalensis rhizome has several biological properties which may inhibit VC. We investigated whether baicalein suppresses Runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2) and bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP-2) and upregulates smooth muscle 22-alpha (SM22-α) and alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA). In an in vitro experiment, primary rat aortic vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) were pretreated with 0.1, 1, and 5 μM baicalein, followed by β-glycerophosphate (β-GP) to induce calcification. In an in vivo experiment, VC was generated by vitamin D3 plus nicotine (VDN) administration to male Sprague Dawley (SD) rats randomly assigned into a control group, a VC group, a VC group pretreated with baicalein, and a baicalein alone group. Each group comprised 10 rats. Left ventricular (LV) morphology, function and performance were assessed by echocardiography. Calcium content was measured by Alizarin red S staining and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity assays. Apoptotic VSMCs were detected by flow cytometry. Protein levels and superoxide changes were evaluated using Western blotting and immunofluorescence assays respectively. Plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) was assayed. Baicalein pretreatment significantly reduced calcium content in calcified VSMCs (p < 0.001) as well as in VC rat aortic smooth muscle (p < 0.001). Additionally, ALP activity was decreased in calcified VSMCs and VC rat aortic smooth muscle (p < 0.001). Apoptosis was significantly attenuated by 1 μM baicalein pretreatment in calcified VSMCs. Runx2 and BMP-2 expressions were downregulated by the baicalein in calcified VSMCs. Baicalein pretreatment increased typical VSMCs markers SM22-α and α-SMA in calcified VSMCs. Baicalein pretreatment was associated with adverse changes in LV morphometry. Markers of oxidative stress declined, and endogenous antioxidants increased in VC rats pretreated with baicalein. Baicalein mitigates VC through the inhibition of Runx2/BMP-2 signaling pathways, enhancement of vascular contractile phenotype and oxidative stress reduction. However, our study is of basic experimental design; more advanced investigations to identify other molecular regulators of VC and their mechanisms of action is required.
Fascial Innervation: A Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Suarez-Rodriguez Vidina , Fede Caterina , Pirri Carmelo , Petrelli Lucia , Loro-Ferrer Juan Francisco , Rodriguez-Ruiz David , De Caro Raffaele , Stecco Carla
Published: May 2022

Currently, myofascial pain has become one of the main problems in healthcare systems. Research into its causes and the structures related to it may help to improve its management. Until some years ago, all the studies were focused on muscle alterations, as trigger points, but recently, fasciae are starting to be considered a new, possible source of pain. This systematic review has been conducted for the purpose of analyze the current evidence of the muscular/deep fasciae innervation from a histological and/or immunohistochemical point of view. A literature search published between 2000 and 2021 was made in PubMed and Google Scholar. Search terms included a combination of fascia, innervation, immunohistochemical, and different immunohistochemical markers. Of the 23 total studies included in the review, five studies were performed in rats, four in mice, two in horses, ten in humans, and two in both humans and rats. There were a great variety of immunohistochemical markers used to detect the innervation of the fasciae; the most used were Protein Gene Marker 9.5 (used in twelve studies), Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide (ten studies), S100 (ten studies), substance P (seven studies), and tyrosine hydroxylase (six studies). Various areas have been studied, with the thoracolumbar fascia being the most observed. Besides, the papers highlighted diversity in the density and type of innervation in the various fasciae, going from free nerve endings to Pacini and Ruffini corpuscles. Finally, it has been observed that the innervation is increased in the pathological fasciae. From this review, it is evident that fasciae are well innerved, their innervation have a particular distribution and precise localization and is composed especially by proprioceptors and nociceptors, the latter being more numerous in pathological situations. This could contribute to a better comprehension and management of pain.
Empagliflozin Treatment Attenuates Hepatic Steatosis by Promoting White Adipose Expansion in Obese TallyHo Mice
Authors: Kurtz Ryan , Libby Andrew , Jones Bryce A. , Myakala Komuraiah , Wang Xiaoxin , Lee Yichien , Knoer Grace , Lo Cascio Julia N. , McCormack Michaela , Nguyen Grace , Choos Elijah N. D. , Rodriguez Olga , Rosenberg Avi Z. , Ranjit Suman , Albanese Christopher , Levi Moshe , Ecelbarger Carolyn M. , Shepard Blythe D.
Published: May 2022

Sodium-glucose co-transporters (SGLTs) serve to reabsorb glucose in the kidney. Recently, these transporters, mainly SGLT2, have emerged as new therapeutic targets for patients with diabetes and kidney disease; by inhibiting glucose reabsorption, they promote glycosuria, weight loss, and improve glucose tolerance. They have also been linked to cardiac protection and mitigation of liver injury. However, to date, the mechanism(s) by which SGLT2 inhibition promotes systemic improvements is not fully appreciated. Using an obese TallyHo mouse model which recapitulates the human condition of diabetes and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), we sought to determine how modulation of renal glucose handling impacts liver structure and function. Apart from an attenuation of hyperglycemia, Empagliflozin was found to decrease circulating triglycerides and lipid accumulation in the liver in male TallyHo mice. This correlated with lowered hepatic cholesterol esters. Using in vivo MRI analysis, we further determined that the reduction in hepatic steatosis in male TallyHo mice was associated with an increase in nuchal white fat indicative of “healthy adipose expansion”. Notably, this whitening of the adipose came at the expense of brown adipose tissue. Collectively, these data indicate that the modulation of renal glucose handling has systemic effects and may be useful as a treatment option for NAFLD and steatohepatitis.
The Functions of PCNA in Tumor Stemness and Invasion
Authors: Wang Yuan-Liang , Wu Wan-Rong , Lin Pei-Le , Shen Yi-Chun , Lin You-Zhe , Li Hong-Wei , Hsu Kai-Wen , Wang Shao-Chun
Published: May 2022

Invasion is the most prominent lethal feature of malignant cancer. However, how cell proliferation, another important feature of tumor development, is integrated with tumor invasion and the subsequent cell dissemination from primary tumors is not well understood. Proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) is essential for DNA replication in cancer cells. Loss of phosphorylation at tyrosine 211 (Y211) in PCNA (pY211-PCNA) mitigates PCNA function in proliferation, triggers replication fork arrest/collapse, which in turn sets off an anti-tumor inflammatory response, and suppresses distant metastasis. Here, we show that pY211-PCNA is important in stromal activation in tumor tissues. Loss of the phosphorylation resulted in reduced expression of mesenchymal proteins as well as tumor progenitor markers, and of the ability of invasion. Spontaneous mammary tumors that developed in mice lacking Y211 phosphorylation contained fewer tumor-initiating cells compared to tumors in wild-type mice. Our study demonstrates a novel function of PCNA as an essential factor for maintaining cancer stemness through Y211 phosphorylation.
Cardiovascular Biomarkers: Lessons of the Past and Prospects for the Future
Authors: Omran Farah , Kyrou Ioannis , Osman Faizel , Lim Ven Gee , Randeva Harpal Singh , Chatha Kamaljit
Published: May 2022

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a major healthcare burden on the population worldwide. Early detection of this disease is important in prevention and treatment to minimise morbidity and mortality. Biomarkers are a critical tool to either diagnose, screen, or provide prognostic information for pathological conditions. This review discusses the historical cardiac biomarkers used to detect these conditions, discussing their application and their limitations. Identification of new biomarkers have since replaced these and are now in use in routine clinical practice, but still do not detect all disease. Future cardiac biomarkers are showing promise in early studies, but further studies are required to show their value in improving detection of CVD above the current biomarkers. Additionally, the analytical platforms that would allow them to be adopted in healthcare are yet to be established. There is also the need to identify whether these biomarkers can be used for diagnostic, prognostic, or screening purposes, which will impact their implementation in routine clinical practice.
Type B CTD Proteins Secreted by the Type IX Secretion System Associate with PorP-like Proteins for Cell Surface Anchorage
Authors: Gorasia Dhana G. , Seers Christine A. , Heath Jacqueline E. , Glew Michelle D. , Soleimaninejad Hamid , Butler Catherine A. , McBride Mark J. , Veith Paul D. , Reynolds Eric C.
Published: May 2022

The Bacteroidetes type IX secretion system (T9SS) consists of at least 20 components that translocate proteins with type A or type B C-terminal domain (CTD) signals across the outer membrane (OM). While type A CTD proteins are anchored to the cell surface via covalent linkage to the anionic lipopolysaccharide, it is still unclear how type B CTD proteins are anchored to the cell surface. Moreover, very little is known about the PorE and PorP components of the T9SS. In this study, for the first time, we identified a complex comprising the OM β-barrel protein PorP, the OM-associated periplasmic protein PorE and the type B CTD protein PG1035. Cross-linking studies supported direct interactions between PorE-PorP and PorP-PG1035. Furthermore, we show that the formation of the PorE-PorP-PG1035 complex was independent of PorU and PorV. Additionally, the Flavobacterium johnsoniae PorP-like protein, SprF, was found bound to the major gliding motility adhesin, SprB, which is also a type B CTD protein. Together, these results suggest that type B-CTD proteins may anchor to the cell surface by binding to their respective PorP-like proteins.
MTP8 from Triticum urartu Is Primarily Responsible for Manganese Tolerance
Authors: Wang Fanhong , Qiao Kun , Wang Huanhuan , Wang Hong , Chai Tuanyao
Published: May 2022

Mineral nutrients, such as manganese (Mn) and iron (Fe), play essential roles in many biological processes in plants but their over-enrichment is harmful for the metabolism. Metal tolerance proteins (MTPs) are involved in cellular Mn and Fe homeostasis. However, the transporter responsible for the transport of Mn in wheat is unknown. In our study, TuMTP8, a Mn-CDF transporter from diploid wheat (Triticum urartu), was identified. Expression of TuMTP8 in yeast strains of Δccc1 and Δsmf1 and Arabidopsis conferred tolerance to elevated Mn and Fe, but not to other metals (zinc, cobalt, copper, nickel, or cadmium). Compared with TuVIT1 (vacuole Fe transporter), TuMTP8 shows a significantly higher proportion in Mn transport and a smaller proportion in Fe transport. The transient analysis in tobacco epidermal cells revealed that TuMTP8 localizes to vacuolar membrane. The highest transcript levels of TuMTP8 were in the sheath of the oldest leaf and the awn, suggesting that TuMTP8 sequesters excess Mn into the vacuole in these organs, away from more sensitive tissues. These findings indicate that TuMTP8, a tonoplast-localized Mn/Fe transporter, functions as a primary balancer to regulate Mn distribution in T. urartu under elevated Mn conditions and participates in the intracellular transport and storage of excess Mn as a detoxification mechanism, thereby conferring Mn tolerance.