bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimization of Enzymatic and Chemical Decellularization of Native Porcine Heart Valves for the Generation of Decellularized Xenografts
Authors: Saeid Nia Monireh , Floder Lena Maria , Seiler Jette Anika , Puehler Thomas , Pommert Nina Sophie , Berndt Rouven , Meier David , Sellers Stephanie L. , Sathananthan Janarthanan , Zhang Xiling , Hasler Mario , Gorb Stanislav N. , Warnecke Gregor , Lutter Georg
Published: April 2024

One of the most important medical interventions for individuals with heart valvular disease is heart valve replacement, which is not without substantial challenges, particularly for pediatric patients. Due to their biological properties and biocompatibility, natural tissue-originated scaffolds derived from human or animal sources are one type of scaffold that is widely used in tissue engineering. However, they are known for their high potential for immunogenicity. Being free of cells and genetic material, decellularized xenografts, consequently, have low immunogenicity and, thus, are expected to be tolerated by the recipient’s immune system. The scaffold ultrastructure and ECM composition can be affected by cell removal agents. Therefore, applying an appropriate method that preserves intact the structure of the ECM plays a critical role in the final result. So far, there has not been an effective decellularization technique that preserves the integrity of the heart valve’s ultrastructure while securing the least amount of genetic material left. This study demonstrates a new protocol with untraceable cells and residual DNA, thereby maximally reducing any chance of immunogenicity. The mechanical and biochemical properties of the ECM resemble those of native heart valves. Results from this study strongly indicate that different critical factors, such as ionic detergent omission, the substitution of Triton X-100 with Tergitol, and using a lower concentration of trypsin and a higher concentration of DNase and RNase, play a significant role in maintaining intact the ultrastructure and function of the ECM.
Nerve Growth Factor Shows Biphasic Expression during Adjuvant-Induced Neurogenic Inflammation
Authors: Gujar Vikramsingh , Pande Radhika D. , Das Subhas
Published: April 2024

Chronic inflammatory diseases are considered the most significant cause of death worldwide. Current treatments for inflammatory diseases are limited due to the lack of understanding of the biological factors involved in early-stage disease progression. Nerve growth factor (NGF) is a neurotrophic factor directly associated with inflammatory and autoimmune diseases like osteoarthritis, multiple sclerosis, and rheumatoid arthritis. It has been shown that NGF levels are significantly upregulated at the site of inflammation and play a crucial role in developing a robust inflammatory response. However, little is known about NGF’s temporal expression profile during the initial progressive phase of inflammation. This study aimed to determine the temporal expression patterns of NGF in rat skin (epidermis) during adjuvant-induced arthritis (AIA). Sprague Dawley rats were randomly divided into control and complete Freund’s adjuvant (CFA)-treated groups. Levels of NGF were evaluated following unilateral AIA at different time points, and it was found that peripheral inflammation due to AIA significantly upregulated the expression of NGF mRNA and protein in a biphasic pattern. These results suggest that NGF signaling is crucial for initiating and maintaining peripheral neurogenic inflammation in rats during AIA.
Pulsating Extremely Low-Frequency Electromagnetic Fields Influence Differentiation of Mouse Neural Stem Cells towards Astrocyte-like Phenotypes: In Vitro Pilot Study
Authors: Isaković Jasmina , Slatković Filip , Jagečić Denis , Petrović Dražen Juraj , Mitrečić Dinko
Published: April 2024

Even though electromagnetic fields have been reported to assist endogenous neurogenesis, little is known about the exact mechanisms of their action. In this pilot study, we investigated the effects of pulsating extremely low-frequency electromagnetic fields on neural stem cell differentiation towards specific phenotypes, such as neurons and astrocytes. Neural stem cells isolated from the telencephalic wall of B6(Cg)-Tyrc-2J/J mouse embryos (E14.5) were randomly divided into three experimental groups and three controls. Electromagnetic field application setup included a solenoid placed within an incubator. Each of the experimental groups was exposed to 50Hz ELF-EMFs of varied strengths for 1 h. The expression of each marker (NES, GFAP, β-3 tubulin) was then assessed by immunocytochemistry. The application of high-strength ELF-EMF significantly increased and low-strength ELF-EMF decreased the expression of GFAP. A similar pattern was observed for β-3 tubulin, with high-strength ELF-EMFs significantly increasing the immunoreactivity of β-3 tubulin and medium- and low-strength ELF-EMFs decreasing it. Changes in NES expression were observed for medium-strength ELF-EMFs, with a demonstrated significant upregulation. This suggests that, even though ELF-EMFs appear to inhibit or promote the differentiation of neural stem cells into neurons or astrocytes, this effect highly depends on the strength and frequency of the fields as well as the duration of their application. While numerous studies have demonstrated the capacity of EMFs to guide the differentiation of NSCs into neuron-like cells or β-3 tubulin+ neurons, this is the first study to suggest that ELF-EMFs may also steer NSC differentiation towards astrocyte-like phenotypes.
Combined Aspiration and Stent Retriever Thrombectomy for Distal Carotid Artery Occlusion Using Balloon Guide versus Non-Balloon Guide Catheter
Authors: Uysal Ender , von Bodelschwingh Bade , Tabakci Omer Naci , Basarir Celal Ilker , Bulut Serpil
Published: April 2024

Background: The introduction of endovascular thrombectomy dramatically changed acute stroke management and became the standard treatment. Balloon guide catheters provide flow arrest during the clot retrieval process and have several advantages.This study aimed to compare balloon guide catheters (BGCs) versus non-balloon guide catheters (NBGCs) as a part of a combined treatment modality in patients presenting with acute ischemic stroke. Methods: This retrospective study included n = 65 patients who underwent a combined endovascular stroke treatment for distal internal carotid artery (ICA) occlusion. Patients underwent aspiration and stent retriever thrombectomy with the use of BGCs (Group 1, n = 27) or NBGCs (Group 2, n = 38). Results: The groups were compared for outcomes: the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSSS) score change, successful recanalization, good functional outcome at three months, and in-hospital mortality. Conclusion: The two groups didn’t differ in terms of the NIHSS score change compared to baseline (p > 0.05). Moreover, there were no significant differences between the two groups in terms of the successful recanalization rate, three-month favorable functional outcome rate, and in-hospital mortality (p = 0.292, p = 0.952, p = 0.178), respectively. Further prospective studies with a larger number of patients and better methodology are warranted.
Influence of Sulfurization Time on Sb2S3 Synthesis Using a New Graphite Box Design
Authors: Uc-Canché Sheyda , Camacho-Espinosa Eduardo , Mis-Fernández Ricardo , Loeza-Poot Mariely , Ceh-Cih Francisco , Peña Juan Luis
Published: April 2024

In recent years, antimony sulfide (Sb2S3) has been investigated as a photovoltaic absorber material due to its suitable absorber coefficient, direct band gap, extinction coefficient, earth-abundant, and environmentally friendly constituents. Therefore, this work proposes Sb2S3 film preparation by an effective two-step process using a new graphite box design and sulfur distribution, which has a high repeatability level and can be scalable. First, an Sb thin film was deposited using the RF-Sputtering technique, and after that, the samples were annealed with elemental sulfur into a graphite box, varying the sulfurization time from 20 to 50 min. The structural, optical, morphological, and chemical characteristics of the resulting thin films were analyzed. Results reveal the method’s effectivity and the best properties were obtained for the sample sulfurized during 40 min. This Sb2S3 thin film presents an orthorhombic crystalline structure, elongated grains, a band gap of 1.69 eV, a crystallite size of 15.25 Å, and a nearly stoichiometric composition. In addition, the formation of a p-n junction was achieved by depositing silver back contact on the Glass/FTO/CdS/Sb2S3 structure. Therefore, the graphite box design has been demonstrated to be functional to obtain Sb2S3 by a two-step process.
Size Effects of Au/Ni-Coated Polymer Particles on the Electrical Performance of Anisotropic Conductive Adhesive Films under Flexible Mechanical Conditions
Authors: Fang Yexing , Wang Taiyu , Gu Yue , Yang Mingkun , Li Hong , Shi Sujun , Zhao Xiuchen , Huo Yongjun
Published: April 2024

In soft electronics, anisotropic conductive adhesive films (ACFs) are the trending interconnecting approach due to their substantial softness and superior bondability to flexible substrates. However, low bonding pressure (≤1 MPa) and fine-pitch interconnections of ACFs become challenging while being extended in advanced device developments such as wafer-level packaging and three-dimensional multi-layer integrated circuit board assembly. To overcome these difficulties, we studied two types of ACFs with distinct conductive filler sizes (ACF-1: ~20 μm and ACF-2: ~5 μm). We demonstrated a low-pressure thermo-compression bonding technique and investigated the size effect of conductive particles on ACF’s mechanical properties in a customized testing device, which consists of flexible printing circuits and Flex on Flex assemblies. A consistency of low interconnection resistance (<1 Ω) after mechanical stress (cycling bending test up to 600 cycles) verifies the assembly’s outstanding electrical reliability and mechanical stability and thus validates the great effectiveness of the ACF bonding technique. Additionally, in numerical studies using the finite element method, we developed a generic model to disclose the size effect of Au/Ni-coated polymer fillers in ACF on device reliability under mechanical stress. For the first time, we confirmed that ACFs with smaller filler particles are more prone to coating fracture, leading to deteriorated electrical interconnections, and are more likely to peel off from substrate electrode pads resulting in electrical faults. This study provides guides for ACF design and manufacturing and would facilitate the advancement of soft wearable electronic devices.
Critical Assessment of Novel Developments in HPGR Technology Using DEM
Authors: Rodriguez Victor A. , Barrios Gabriel K. P. , Campos Túlio M. , Tavares Luís Marcelo
Published: April 2024

Advances in high-pressure grinding roll (HGPR) technology since its first commercial application in the cement industry include new roll wear protection techniques and new confinement systems. The latter contribute to reductions in the edge effects in an attempt to reach a more homogenous product size along the rolls. Additional advances in this technology have been made in recent years, while modeling and simulation tools are also reaching maturity and can now be used to subject such novel developments to detailed scrutiny. This work applies a hybrid approach combining advanced simulations using the discrete element method, the particle replacement model and multibody dynamics to a phenomenological population balance model to critically assess two recent advances in HPGR technology: spring-loaded cheek plates and the offset roller press. Force and torque controllers, included in the EDEM 2022.1 software, were used to describe the responses of the geometries in contact with the granular material processed. Simulations showed that while the former successfully reduced the lateral bypass of the material by as much as 65% when cheek plates became severely worn, the latter demonstrated lower throughput and higher potential wear but an ability to generate a finer product than the traditional design.
Experimental Investigation of the Impact of Niobium Additions on the Structural Characteristics and Properties of Ti–5Cr–xNb Alloys for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Hsu Hsueh-Chuan , Wu Shih-Ching , Fang Wei-Ching , Ho Wen-Fu
Published: April 2024

In this study, a series of Ti–5Cr–xNb alloys with varying Nb content (ranging from 1 to 40 wt.%) were investigated to assess their suitability as implant materials. Comprehensive analyses were conducted, including phase analysis, microscopy examination, mechanical testing, and corrosion resistance evaluation. The results revealed significant structural alterations attributed to Nb addition, notably suppressing the formation of the ω phase and transitioning from α′ + β + ω to single β phase structures. Moreover, the incorporation of Nb markedly improved the alloys’ plastic deformation ability and reduced their elastic modulus. In particular, the Ti–5Cr–25Nb alloy demonstrated high values in corrosion potential and polarization resistance, signifying exceptional corrosion resistance. This alloy also displayed high bending strength (approximately 1500 MPa), a low elastic modulus (approximately 80 GPa), and outstanding elastic recovery and plastic deformation capabilities. These aggregate outcomes indicate the promising potential of the β-phase Ti–5Cr–25Nb alloy for applications in orthopedic and dental implants.
Fabrication of Large-Area Silicon Spherical Microlens Arrays by Thermal Reflow and ICP Etching
Authors: Wu Yu , Dong Xianshan , Wang Xuefang , Xiao Junfeng , Sun Quanquan , Shen Lifeng , Lan Jie , Shen Zhenfeng , Xu Jianfeng , Du Yuqingyun
Published: April 2024

In this paper, we proposed an efficient and high-precision process for fabricating large-area microlens arrays using thermal reflow combined with ICP etching. When the temperature rises above the glass transition temperature, the polymer cylinder will reflow into a smooth hemisphere due to the surface tension effect. The dimensional differences generated after reflow can be corrected using etching selectivity in the following ICP etching process, which transfers the microstructure on the photoresist to the substrate. The volume variation before and after reflow, as well as the effect of etching selectivity using process parameters, such as RF power and gas flow, were explored. Due to the surface tension effect and the simultaneous molding of all microlens units, machining a 3.84 × 3.84 mm2 silicon microlens array required only 3 min of reflow and 15 min of ICP etching with an extremely low average surface roughness Sa of 1.2 nm.
Rapid Nucleic Acid Diagnostic Technology for Pandemic Diseases
Authors: Lei Yu , Xu Dawei
Published: April 2024

The recent global pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has enormously promoted the development of diagnostic technology. To control the spread of pandemic diseases and achieve rapid screening of the population, ensuring that patients receive timely treatment, rapid diagnosis has become the top priority in the development of clinical technology. This review article aims to summarize the current rapid nucleic acid diagnostic technologies applied to pandemic disease diagnosis, from rapid extraction and rapid amplification to rapid detection. We also discuss future prospects in the development of rapid nucleic acid diagnostic technologies.
Improving the Nutritional Status of Socially Vulnerable Children in Manaus, Brazilian Amazon, through a Food Supplementation Programme
Authors: Mosquera Elaine Martins Bento , Tonon Karina Merini , Augusto Rosângela Aparecida , de Carvalho Tânia Maria , Morais Mauro Batista de
Published: April 2024

Information on the effects of government nutrition programmes provided to socially vulnerable children to improve their nutritional status is scarce. We analysed the effectiveness of a nutritional programme, including food supplementation with infant formula, on the evolution of the weight and height of socially vulnerable children from Manaus in the Brazilian Amazon. This study included 7752 children aged 12–24 months admitted to the programme between 2017 and 2020. Weight and height measurements at admission and every three months thereafter were extracted from the programme database. Weight-for-age, weight-for-height, body mass index-for-age (BMI/A), and height-for-age z-scores were analysed using a multilevel linear regression model, which showed a statistically significant decrease in nutritional deficits toward nutritional recovery at follow-up. The programme’s effectiveness was evaluated in 1617 children using a paired analysis comparing data from between 12 and 15 months of age at admission and follow-up after 6–9 months. Children admitted with wasting presented an increase in the BMI/A z-score, whereas children admitted with a risk of being overweight and obese had a statistically significant decrease in the BMI/A z-score. Children admitted with stunted growth also showed increased height-for-age z-scores. The nutrition programme was effective for children experiencing wasting and reducing excess weight.
Division of Responsibility in Child Feeding and Eating Competence: A Cross-Sectional Study in a Sample of Caregivers of Brazilian Children with Celiac Disease
Authors: Silva Larissa Caetano , Nakano Eduardo Yoshio , Zandonadi Renata Puppin
Published: April 2024

The objective of this cross-sectional study was to assess eating competence (EC) and the adherence to the division of responsibility in child feeding (sDOR) of Brazilian caregivers of children with celiac disease (CD). It also examined the association between EC and sDOR, children’s adherence to a gluten-free diet, and sociodemographic data. This study administered a survey set that included sociodemographic data, health-related data, eating habits, and the instruments ecSI2.0TMBR and sDOR.2-6yTM BR, validated for a Brazilian population. The sample comprised 50 caregivers of children with CD (between 24 and 72 months of age). The participants following a gluten-free diet (GFD) presented higher scores for all EC domains and the total EC. The total EC scores were higher for the participants over 40 y/o, frequently having meals as a family, with their children consuming more than three servings of fruit and at least one serving of vegetables daily and complying with a GFD. Different from the EC, the sDOR.2-6yTM scores did not differ between the participants complying with a GFD. The sDOR.2-6yTM mealtime structure domain scores were significantly associated with the EC eating attitude, food acceptance, contextual skills, and total. These findings support the need for greater attention to exploring the division of responsibility in feeding and EC in pediatric celiac disease, potentially enhancing intervention strategies for patients and their families.
The Stable Gastric Pentadecapeptide BPC 157 Pleiotropic Beneficial Activity and Its Possible Relations with Neurotransmitter Activity
Authors: Sikiric Predrag , Boban Blagaic Alenka , Strbe Sanja , Beketic Oreskovic Lidija , Oreskovic Ivana , Sikiric Suncana , Staresinic Mario , Sever Marko , Kokot Antonio , Jurjevic Ivana , Matek Danijel , Coric Luka , Krezic Ivan , Tvrdeic Ante , Luetic Kresimir , Batelja Vuletic Lovorka , Pavic Predrag , Mestrovic Tomislav , Sjekavica Ivica , Skrtic Anita , Seiwerth Sven
Published: April 2024

We highlight the particular aspects of the stable gastric pentadecapeptide BPC 157 pleiotropic beneficial activity (not destroyed in human gastric juice, native and stable in human gastric juice, as a cytoprotection mediator holds a response specifically related to preventing or recovering damage as such) and its possible relations with neurotransmitter activity. We attempt to resolve the shortage of the pleiotropic beneficial effects of BPC 157, given the general standard neurotransmitter criteria, in classic terms. We substitute the lack of direct conclusive evidence (i.e., production within the neuron or present in it as a precursor molecule, released eliciting a response on the receptor on the target cells on neurons and being removed from the site of action once its signaling role is complete). This can be a network of interconnected evidence, previously envisaged in the implementation of the cytoprotection effects, consistent beneficial particular evidence that BPC 157 therapy counteracts dopamine, serotonin, glutamate, GABA, adrenalin/noradrenalin, acetylcholine, and NO-system disturbances. This specifically includes counteraction of those disturbances related to their receptors, both blockade and over-activity, destruction, depletion, tolerance, sensitization, and channel disturbances counteraction. Likewise, BPC 157 activates particular receptors (i.e., VGEF and growth hormone). Furthermore, close BPC 157/NO-system relations with the gasotransmitters crossing the cell membrane and acting directly on molecules inside the cell may envisage particular interactions with receptors on the plasma membrane of their target cells. Finally, there is nerve-muscle relation in various muscle disturbance counteractions, and nerve-nerve relation in various encephalopathies counteraction, which is also exemplified specifically by the BPC 157 therapy application.
Potential of Lycii Radicis Cortex as an Ameliorative Agent for Skeletal Muscle Atrophy
Authors: Son Rak Ho , Kim Myeong Il , Kim Hye Mi , Guo Shuo , Lee Do Hyun , Lim Gyu Min , Kim Seong-Min , Kim Jae-Yong , Kim Chul Young
Published: April 2024

Lycii Radicis Cortex (LRC) is a traditional medicine in East Asia with various beneficial effects, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, anti-diabetic, and anti-depressant properties. However, its potential effects on skeletal muscle atrophy have not been studied. In this study, the protective effects of LRC extract (LRCE) on dexamethasone (DEX)-induced muscle atrophy were investigated in C2C12 myotubes and mice. We evaluated the effect of LRCE on improving muscle atrophy using a variety of methods, including immunofluorescence staining, quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), Western blot, measurements of oxidative stress, apoptosis, ATP levels, and muscle tissue analysis. The results showed that LRCE improved myotube diameter, fusion index, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, mitochondrial content, ATP levels, expression of myogenin and myosin heavy chain (MHC), and reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in dexamethasone-induced C2C12 myotubes. LRCE also enhanced protein synthesis and reduced protein degradation in the myotubes. In mice treated with DEX, LRCE restored calf thickness, decreased mRNA levels of muscle-specific RING finger protein 1 (MuRF1) and atrogin-1, and increased insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) mRNA level. Moreover, LRCE also repaired gastrocnemius muscle atrophy caused by DEX. Although human studies are not available, various preclinical studies have identified potential protective effects of LRCE against muscle atrophy, suggesting that it could be utilized in the prevention and treatment of muscle atrophy.
Fluorinated Polydopamine Shell Decorated Fillers in Polytetrafluoroethylene Composite for Achieving Highly Reduced Coefficient of Thermal Expansion
Authors: Yu Yuanying , Chen Xiao , Hou Dajun , Zhou Jingjing , Zhang Pengchao , Shen Jie , Zhou Jing
Published: April 2024

The noticeable difference in the coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) for polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) coatings and copper substrates is a major challenge for thermal debonding of the copper-clad laminate (CCL) in high-frequency communications. Theoretically, ceramic fillers with low CTEs in the coating can effectively reduce the gap, and there remains a trade-off between the dispersibility of fillers and the interfacial interactions with the polymeric matrix. Here, we propose a novel approach to prepare a pentafluorobenzoyl chloride (PFBC)-modified polydopamine (PDA) shell on silica particles by using amidation. Such modified particles perform excellent dispersion and exhibit diminished interfacial gaps in the PTFE matrix, which highly reduces CTE to 77 ppm/°C, accounting for only 48.1% of the neat coating. Moreover, the composite exhibits enhanced mechanical strength and toughness, and consequently suppresses thermal debonding in CCL under high-temperature conditions. Therefore, results present a promising potential for its use in the next-generation CCL of high-frequency communication devices.
Biographically Anchored Liturgies as a Starting Point for Liturgical Formation
Authors: Winter Stephan , Kühn Lisa
Published: April 2024

The liturgical professional development project for pastoral workers and clergy in the Diocese of Rottenburg-Stuttgart has been developed in collaboration with the Department of Liturgical Studies at the University of Tübingen. The concept of biographical learning is the innovative element that explores a new type of liturgical formation (Bildung) where the learning content explores the participant’s unique biography of learning, faith development, and theological education and the impact of these on their understanding of the liturgy and their liturgical practice. The learning process aims to equip professional pastoral theologians to reflect on and be responsive to the liturgical–pastoral contexts in which they work. The Department of Liturgical Studies provides the learning structure and context, while the diocese provides the teaching space and enables the participants to attend. The learning outcomes are unrelated to a specific professional or employment structure or associated with a points system, management, or career progression process. The project provides a learning process rather than a program of learning, distinguishing itself from many traditional approaches to liturgical formation. The challenge for the teaching team is to provide the participants with conceptual or theoretical material to reflect on their biographical narrative of theology and then apply this concept of biographical learning in their specific and diverse pastoral contexts. As part of the biographical learning process, participants contribute to “feedback loops” to the diocese and the teaching team. This paper does not address the competency framework for career development, employment assessment, or learning comprehension. All evaluations of professionalism, role attainment, career development, and competency are employment matters and are the purview of the Diocese of Rottenburg-Stuttgart. However, the learning process provides participants with frameworks for self-assessment and feedback loops to evaluate the teaching team, the process, and the content.
High-Precision Time Difference of Arrival Estimation Method Based on Phase Measurement
Authors: Xin Jihao , Ge Xuyang , Zhang Yuan , Liang Xingdong , Li Hang , Wu Linghao , Wei Jiashuo , Bu Xiangxi
Published: April 2024

In unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)-based time difference of arrival (TDOA) positioning technique, baselines are limited due to communication constraints. In this case, the accuracy is highly sensitive to the TDOA measurements’ error. This article primarily addresses the problem of short-baseline high-precision time synchronization and TDOA measurement. We conducted a detailed analysis of error models in TDOA systems, considering both the time and phase measurement. We utilize the frequency division wireless phase synchronization technique in TDOA systems. Building upon this synchronization scheme, we propose a novel time delay estimation method that relies on phase measurements based on the integer least squares method. The performance of this method is demonstrated through Monte Carlo simulations and outdoor experiments. The standard deviations of synchronization and TDOA measurements in experiments are 1.12 ps and 1.66 ps, respectively. Furthermore, the circular error probable (CEP) accuracy is improved from 0.33%R to 0.02%R, offering support for the practical application of distributed short-baseline high-precision passive location techniques.
Short-Term Power-Generation Prediction of High Humidity Island Photovoltaic Power Station Based on a Deep Hybrid Model
Authors: Wang Jiahui , Jia Mingsheng , Li Shishi , Chen Kang , Zhang Cheng , Song Xiuyu , Zhang Qianxi
Published: April 2024

Precise prediction of the power generation of photovoltaic (PV) stations on the island contributes to efficiently utilizing and developing abundant solar energy resources along the coast. In this work, a hybrid short-term prediction model (ICMIC-POA-CNN-BIGRU) was proposed to study the output of a fishing–solar complementary PV station with high humidity on the island. ICMIC chaotic mapping was used to optimize the initial position of the pelican optimization algorithm (POA) population, enhancing the global search ability. Then, ICMIC-POA performed hyperparameter debugging and L2-regularization coefficient optimization on CNN-BIGRU (convolutional neural network and bidirectional gated recurrent unit). The L2-regularization technique optimized the loss curve and over-fitting problem in the CNN-BIGRU training process. To compare the prediction effect with the other five models, three typical days (sunny, cloudy, and rainy) were selected to establish the model, and six evaluation indexes were used to evaluate the prediction performance. The results show that the model proposed in this work shows stronger robustness and generalization ability. K-fold cross-validation verified the prediction effects of three models established by different datasets for three consecutive days and five consecutive days. Compared with the CNN-BIGRU model, the RMSE values of the newly proposed model were reduced by 64.08%, 46.14%, 57.59%, 60.61%, and 34.04%, respectively, in sunny, cloudy, rainy, continuous prediction 3 days, and 5 days. The average value of the determination coefficient R2 of the 20 experiments was 0.98372 on sunny days, 0.97589 on cloudy days, and 0.98735 on rainy days.
Optimal Operation and Market Integration of a Hybrid Farm with Green Hydrogen and Energy Storage: A Stochastic Approach Considering Wind and Electricity Price Uncertainties
Authors: García-Miguel Pedro Luis Camuñas , Zarilli Donato , Alonso-Martinez Jaime , Plaza Manuel García , Gómez Santiago Arnaltes
Published: April 2024

In recent years, growing interest has emerged in investigating the integration of energy storage and green hydrogen production systems with renewable energy generators. These integrated systems address uncertainties related to renewable resource availability and electricity prices, mitigating profit loss caused by forecasting errors. This paper focuses on the operation of a hybrid farm (HF), combining an alkaline electrolyzer (AEL) and a battery energy storage system (BESS) with a wind turbine to form a comprehensive HF. The HF operates in both hydrogen and day-ahead electricity markets. A linear mathematical model is proposed to optimize energy management, considering electrolyzer operation at partial loads and accounting for degradation costs while maintaining a straightforward formulation for power system optimization. Day-ahead market scheduling and real-time operation are formulated as a progressive mixed-integer linear program (MILP), extended to address uncertainties in wind speed and electricity prices through a two-stage stochastic optimization model. A bootstrap sampling strategy is introduced to enhance the stochastic model’s performance using the same sampled data. Results demonstrate how the strategies outperform traditional Monte Carlo and deterministic approaches in handling uncertainties, increasing profits up to 4% per year. Additionally, a simulation framework has been developed for validating this approach and conducting different case studies.
Sustainable Urbanization in Valley-Bottom Areas in Urban Settings: The Case of the Jaguaré Stream Basin, São Paulo, Brazil
Authors: de Castro Afonso Celso Vanoni , Benatti Alvim Angélica Tanus
Published: April 2024

This article addresses the sustainable urbanization model of urban valley-bottom areas, focusing on the Jaguaré stream basin in São Paulo, Brazil. It tackles the challenge of integrating environmental criteria into the management of urbanized watersheds to promote urban and environmental resilience through adaptive infrastructures. São Paulo, the largest and most populous city in Brazil, has often overlooked the natural characteristics of watersheds, resulting in significant flooding and necessitating a reassessment of urban practices. The study, through the analysis of a referential project, qualitative analyses, and geoprocessing techniques, proposes an urbanization model in valley bottom areas that combines adaptive infrastructures—green-blue and gray infrastructures. It highlights the importance of a systemic, transdisciplinary, and integrated approach that considers the political-administrative, environmental, urbanistic, and infrastructural dimensions to address the challenges posed by climate change and urbanization. Specific recommendations are presented to adapt urbanized valley-bottom areas, emphasizing nature-based solutions and community participation in the management of hydrological risks towards the promotion of sustainable and fair urban spaces.
Direction of Arrival Estimation of Coherent Sources via a Signal Space Deep Convolution Network
Authors: Zhao Jun , Gui Renzhou , Dong Xudong , Zhao Yufei
Published: April 2024

In the field of direction of arrival (DOA) estimation for coherent sources, subspace-based model-driven methods exhibit increased computational complexity due to the requirement for eigenvalue decomposition. In this paper, we propose a new neural network, i.e., the signal space deep convolution (SSDC) network, which employs the signal space covariance matrix as the input and performs independent two-dimensional convolution operations on the symmetric real and imaginary parts of the input signal space covariance matrix. The proposed SSDC network is designed to address the challenging task of DOA estimation for coherent sources. Furthermore, we leverage the spatial sparsity of the output from the proposed SSDC network to conduct a spectral peak search for obtaining the associated DOAs. Simulations demonstrate that, compared to existing state-of-the-art deep learning-based DOA estimation methods for coherent sources, the proposed SSDC network achieves excellent results in both matching and mismatching scenarios between the training and test sets.
Patulin Biodegradation Mechanism Study in Pichia guilliermondii S15-8 Based on PgSDR-A5D9S1
Authors: Xi Huijuan , Wang Yebo , Ni Xulei , Zhang Minjie , Luo Ying
Published: April 2024

Patulin contamination has become a bottleneck problem in the safe production of fruit products, although biodegradation technology shows potential application value in patulin control. In the present study, the patulin biodegradation mechanism in a probiotic yeast, Pichia guilliermondii S15-8, was investigated. Firstly, the short-chain dehydrogenase PgSDR encoded by gene A5D9S1 was identified as a patulin degradation enzyme, through RNA sequencing and verification by qRT-PCR. Subsequently, the exogenous expression system of the degradation protein PgSDR-A5D9S1 in E. coli was successfully constructed and demonstrated a more significant patulin tolerance and degradation ability. Furthermore, the structure of PgSDR-A5D9S1 and its active binding sites with patulin were predicted via molecular docking analysis. In addition, the heat-excited protein HSF1 was predicted as the transcription factor regulating the patulin degradation protein PgSDR-A5D9S1, which may provide clues for the further analysis of the molecular regulation mechanism of patulin degradation. This study provides a theoretical basis and technical support for the industrial application of biodegradable functional strains.
Assessing Microplastic Contamination in Zooplanktonic Organisms from Two River Estuaries
Authors: Espincho Francisca , Pereira Rúben , Rodrigues Sabrina M. , Silva Diogo M. , Almeida C. Marisa R. , Ramos Sandra
Published: April 2024

The present work aims to evaluate the MP contamination of zooplankton and its impact on MP trophic transfers at the lower levels of the food web in a field study. During 1 year, seasonal surveys were conducted to collect zooplankton and water samples from different sites in two estuaries, the Douro and Lima estuaries (NW, Portugal). The zooplankton was quantified and identified into major zooplanktonic groups. Dedicated protocols that had been previously optimized were used to assess the MP presence in the water samples and in two of the most abundant zooplankton groups (copepods and chaetognaths). The results showed the presence of MPs in all water samples, with similar MP concentrations in both estuaries (Lima: 2.4 ± 2.0 MPs m−3; Douro: 2.3 ± 1.9 MPs m−3). In general, no temporal or spatial variations were observed. Fibres, blue and of a small size (<1 mm), were the most common characteristics of the MPs found in the water and zooplankton, indicating that water can be a source of MPs for zooplankton. Chaetognatha exhibited higher MP contamination in the Lima (2.9 ± 3.1 MPs ind−1) and Douro (2.0 ± 2.8 MPs ind−1) estuaries than Copepoda, which tended to have lower levels of MP contamination (Lima: 0.95 ± 1.12 MPs ind−1; Douro: 1.1 ± 1.2 MPs ind−1). Such differences in the MP concentrations between these two categories of zooplanktonic organisms indicate a possible MP trophic transfer at the lower levels of the food web. The results highlight the novel possibility of an MP trophic transfer in zooplankton and the need to fully assess the impacts of MPs in real scenarios.
Effects of Winter Warming on Alpine Permafrost Streamflow in Xinjiang China and Teleconnections with the Siberian High
Authors: Liu Jingshi , Halimulati Guligena , Liu Yuting , Mu Jianxin , Tuoheti Namaiti
Published: April 2024

The climatic warming-induced shrinking of permafrost currently encompasses 65% of alpine areas in North China, where a large population relies on its water and land resources. With increasing recognition of the economic and ecological impacts of permafrost basins, forecasts of environmental vulnerability have gained prominence. However, the links between permafrost and winter water resources remain inadequately explored, with most studies focusing on in-situ measurements related to snow cover and frozen layer thickness. Evaluating more complex phenomena, such as the magnitude and persistence of air temperature or low streamflow, depends on numerous climate-driven factors interacting through various subsurface flow mechanisms, basin drainage mechanics, and hydro-climatic correlations at a macroscale. The present study focuses on winter warming, flow increases, and their teleconnections in Xinjiang, China. The research analyzes their links to the atmospheric cycle of the Siberian High (SH) using long-term data spanning 55 years from two large alpine permafrost basins. Changes in variability and correlation persistence were explored for the past decades, and significant variability and connections were constructed using statistical correlation. The years 1980 and 1990 were a turning point when both winter temperatures and winter river flow began to exhibit a notable and consistent upward trend. Subsequently, the period from the mid-1990s to 2013 was characterized by high variability and persistence in these trends. The influence of the SH plays a dominant role in regard to both winter temperatures and river flow, and these variabilities and correlations can be utilized to estimate and predict winter flow in ungauged permafrost rivers in Xinjiang China.
Start-Up Performance and Process Kinetics of a Two-Stage Partial Nitrification–Anaerobic Ammonium Oxidation Reactor
Authors: Wang Dunqiu , Ji Yipeng , Zhang Wenjie , Guo Xiaoying , Wen Guan , Wu Huihao , Fan Xiangyu , Dong Kun
Published: April 2024

The study of two-stage partial nitrification–anaerobic ammonium oxidation (PN/A) reactors, which are advantageous in engineering applications, still lacks research on process kinetics. Therefore, in this study, the start-up performance and process kinetics of a two-stage PN/A reactor were evaluated by controlling the reaction conditions, for which the two reactors were inoculated with sludge, incubated separately, and then operated in tandem. Increasing the ammonia load of the reactor during the 60 d stabilization period resulted in a nitrogen accumulation rate of 96.93% and a [NO2− − N]Eff/[NH4+ − N]Eff ratio of 1.33, which is close to the theoretical value of 1.32. Successful initiation of the A reactor was achieved after 55 d of operation by inoculating with anammox-activated sludge and granular activated carbon, and the PN and A reactors then successfully operated in combination for 20 d, with an average NH4+ − N efficiency of 99.04% and the NH4+ − N load of the A reactor showing an “S-shaped” curve. An analysis of the microbial growth kinetic models indicated that the removal of NH4+ − N could be successfully described by the logistic, modified logistic, modified Gompertz, and modified Boltzmann models. A strong association between the model and the dependent variable was observed. The process kinetic analysis showed that the removal of NH4+ − N from reactor A could be simulated under steady-state conditions, using the Grau second-order model. The parameters obtained from the model analysis are expected to help predict the denitrification performance of the reactor, facilitate operational management and control, and thus provide a promising research basis for the introduction of automated control systems.
Prospects for fisheries use of lake Sobache (Pionerskoe) in the Republic of Khakassia
Authors:   Krasnoyarsk Branch of Russian Federal Research Institute of Fisheries and Oceanography, Russia, Krasnoyarsk, Polyaeva K.V. , Volkova N.I. ,   Krasnoyarsk Branch of Russian Federal Research Institute of Fisheries and Oceanography, Russia, Krasnoyarsk, Budin Y.V. ,   Krasnoyarsk Branch of Russian Federal Research Institute of Fisheries and Oceanography, Russia, Krasnoyarsk; Krasnoyarsk SAU, Russia, Krasnoyarsk, Mihajlova N.V. ,   Krasnoyarsk Branch of Russian Federal Research Institute of Fisheries and Oceanography, Russia, Krasnoyarsk, Glushchenko L.A. ,   Krasnoyarsk Branch of Russian Federal Research Institute of Fisheries and Oceanography, Russia, Krasnoyarsk; Siberian Federal University, Russia, Krasnoyarsk
Published: April 2024

We assess Sobache (Pionerskoe) lake located in The Republic of Khakassia for aquaculture using. The lake is drainless, the water-surface area is about 1.5 km2. The prevailing depths range from 2 to 4 m. We provide data on the hydrological regime of the lake (temperature, dissolved oxygen level, chemical water composition). 3 species of rotifers, 10 species of cladoceran and 3 species of copepods were found in the zooplankton. The dominant complex consists of the rotifer Asplanhna priodonta, Bosmina longirostris and Ceriodaphnia quadrangula. The zoobenthos community includes 13 groups of organisms, where chironomids predominate in abundance, and gastropods and bivalves predominate in biomass. The ichthyofauna of the lake consists of perch and pike, perch predominates in abundance. Four species of parasites were found, including trematodes and myxporidia. The infection of fish with trematode metacercariae indicates the presence of intermediate hosts in the zoobenthos community of the lake. The detected species of parasites do not pose a danger to human health. The natural fish productivity is estimated at 48.2 kg/ha. We recommended to use the lake for commercial cultivation of fish in polyculture way. We proposed two schemes of fishery exploitation of the lake on the principle of pasturable fish culture: annual cultivation of fish in polyculture (carp, trout, herbivorous fish species) and joint cultivation of fish in polyculture (carp and white amur) by continuous intensive technology (three-year turnover) with carp feeding. The expected yield of fish products varies from 460.0 to 400.0 kg/ha, depending on the chosen technology. These recommendations can contribute to the effective use of the fisheries potential of Sobache (Pionerskoe) lake to provide the region with fresh fish products and create jobs for the local population.
The fishway of the Nikolaev waterworks on the Don river
Authors:   Novocherkassk Engineering and Land Reclamation Institute — branch of the Don State Agrarian University, Russia, Novocherkassk, Sukalo G.M. , Shevchenko A.V. ,   Russian Research Institute of Land Reclamation Problems, Russia, Novocherkassk
Published: April 2024

The relevance of the study is determined by the reduction in stocks of populations of passable, semi-passable and aquatic fish species in the Azov-Don fishery basin. One of the reasons for this is a decrease (for various reasons and circumstances) in the efficiency of the functioning of fish-passing facilities located at the Don river waterworks, providing passage of fish to their spawning sites and, in particular, the Nikolaev fishway. The purpose of this study is to assess the current state and form proposals for the reconstruction of the canal. The methodology of the work provided for the analysis of the design solution, conducting a survey of the condition of the fishway of the Nikolaev waterwork and hydrometric changes in its flow-rate parameters. The empirical basis for the analysis and subsequent development of recommendations was made up of design materials and author’s data on fixing the hydrometric parameters of the channel. According to the results of the research, the main characteristics of the fishway, information on its layout and design solution are established, data on the flow-rate and geometric dimensions of the channel tract and the flow-regulating equipment are given, information on the established deformations of the channel bed in its various sections. The disadvantages of the layout and design solution of the device and the state of the channel have been established in terms of the lack of an engineering-equipped inlet (for fish) head, the adopted design of the head controller and the output section, as well as the selected hydrometric parameters of its tract. In order to eliminate a number of identified shortcomings that reduce the quality of hydrometric conditions for the passage and spawning of fish, it is proposed to reconstruct the structure. As a result of the formation of appropriate proposals (taking into account modern requirements and accumulated experience of their creation), recommended design solutions of the main elements of the channel have been developed, allowing to significantly increase the efficiency of its functioning in terms of attracting fish to its entrance, entry, spawning in its waters and passage through the fish channel to the abovelocated spawning grounds.
Réflexions sur la raison phonographique
Authors: Jaffré Jean-Pierre , Sandon Jean-Michel
Published: April 2024

La linguistique de l’écrit accorde en général une place importante à la notation écrite des unités sonores du langage. Les manifestations de cette phonographie varient avec les langues mais jouent à chaque fois un rôle apparemment décisif sur le plan cognitif

En l’état actuel de nos connaissances, et en dépit des problèmes qu’elle pose à l’écriture, la phonographie semble fonctionner comme un passage nécessaire, sinon suffisant. C’est ce que nous montrent les travaux sur l’acquisition de l’écrit, chez les sourds notamment, et ceux qui cherchent à en décrire les fondements biologiques.
L’oral en situation scolaire : vers un changement de paradigme des études sur l’acquisition de l’oral ?
Authors: de Pietro Jean-François , Dolz Joaquim , Idiazabal-Gorrochategi Itziar , Rispail Marielle
Published: April 2024

Qu’a apporté la didactique de l’oral à notre connaissance du développement du langage chez l’enfant ? Quatre chercheurs en didactique de l’oral mettent en perspective ces apports par rapport à ceux de la psycholinguistique et de la linguistique acquisitionnelle. À partir de leurs propres travaux sur des formes « complexes » de l’oral (l’exposé, le débat), ils tentent une mise en perspective des recherches récentes. Ils soulignent en particulier que la maîtrise des conduites langagières n’est jamais acquise, mais toujours à travailler et affiner, et qu’elle est en interaction étroite avec la situation sociolinguistique dans laquelle elle s’enracine.