bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing Risk, Effectiveness, and Benefits in Transportation Regulation
Authors: Aiken Deborah Vaughn , Brumbaugh Stephen
Published: June 2023

We review the practice of safety benefits analysis for federal transportation regulations in the USA. Using a case-study approach, we explore the linkages between risk assessment and benefits analysis, adding to previous work exploring these linkages for environmental health regulations. Challenges for calculating the benefits of transportation safety regulations arise because safety outcomes, like many noncancer health effects, typically do not have formal risk relationships like dose–response functions established for them. Analysts often rely on engineering or other expert judgments or resort to qualitative discussions to connect a regulatory intervention to its intended outcome. Challenges also arise when regulatory outcomes are intangible or do not have established metrics. Safety outcomes are not always measurable in concrete terms like mortality risk and may include difficult-to-operationalize concepts like “safety culture.” If the outcome is not measurable, then quantifying or monetizing the expected effects of a regulation is not possible, and the ability to conduct robust qualitative discussions also may be limited. Economists evaluating benefits for safety regulations encounter limitations analogous to difficulties found in health regulations. To inform policymaking effectively, economists and safety experts could look to the relationship developed in environmental economics between economists and health scientists.
A Benefit–Cost Analysis of Tulsa Pre-K, Based on Effects on High-School Graduation and College Attendance
Authors: Bartik Timothy J. , Gormley William T. , Amadon Sara , Hummel-Price Douglas , Fuller James
Published: June 2023

This paper presents new benefit–cost estimates for the Tulsa universal pre-K program. These calculations are based on estimated effects, from two recent papers, of Tulsa pre-K on high-school graduation rates and college attendance rates of students who were in kindergarten in the fall of 2006. In the current paper, educational effects from these prior papers are used to infer lifetime earnings effects. Our conservative estimates suggest that per pre-K participant, the present value of earnings effects in 2021 dollars is $25,533, compared with program costs of $9,628, for a benefit–cost ratio of 2.65. Compared to prior benefit–cost studies of Tulsa pre-K, this benefit–cost ratio is below what was predicted from Tulsa pre-K’s effects on kindergarten test scores, but above what was predicted from Tulsa pre-K’s effects on grade retention by ninth grade. This fading and recovery of predicted pre-K effects as children go through K-12 and then enter adulthood is consistent with prior research. It suggests that pre-K may have important effects on “soft skills,” such as persisting in school, and reminds us that short-term studies of pre-K provide useful information for public policy.
Zoom up your mood – a pilot study examining the efficacy of video-conferencing versus face-to-face delivery of group CBT for depression for out-patients attending a secondary mental health service in Ireland
Authors: Ryan Dearbhail , Cogley Clodagh , Moore Lucy
Published: June 2023

Background:

Cluain Mhuire is a secondary adult mental health service based in Ireland. The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in many services moving online, including our coping with depression group. A shortened, online version of the face-to-face group was piloted; however, analysis showed that it was not as effective as the longer face-to-face group. Thus, a 12-session, 2.5-hour online group CBT (gCBT) was subsequently run to directly compare the online therapy with the original face-to-face group.

Aims:

The primary objective of the study is to evaluate the effectiveness of a 12-week gCBT programme adapted to videoconferencing in reducing self-reported symptoms of depression and anxiety and enhancing quality of life (QoL). Results will be compared with the same group programme delivered face-to-face.

Method:

This is a between-groups, naturalistic treatment outcome study. Pre and post measures include the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II), Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), and the World Health Organisation Quality of Life Scale (WHOQoL-Bref). A mixed between-within subjects analysis of variance was performed to assess the impact of the three interventions (face-to-face, 8-session online and 12-session online) on participant scores; 112 participants (65 women, 47 men) were recruited (mean age=41.85, SD=13.08).

Results:

All three interventions significantly improved depression, anxiety and QoL scores. There was no significant difference between the treatment groups. Attendance was highest in the 12-session online group, followed by the 8-session online group and 12-session in-person group.

Conclusions:

These results add to the growing evidence supporting the effectiveness of internet-delivered gCBT in reducing depressive symptoms.
Is Rio de Janeiro preparing for war? Combating organized crime versus non-international armed conflict
Authors: Palma Najla Nassif
Published: June 2023

The idea that Rio de Janeiro has been plunged into an actual “war” against organized crime is widely discussed and is supported by an ever-increasing number of people in Brazil. Not surprisingly, such discourse has led to less protection for the civilian population, particularly in the so-called favelas, while allowing security forces to carry out operations with even greater relative impunity. This article argues that although urban violence in Rio de Janeiro is indeed a serious problem, it does not reach the threshold required to be considered a non-international armed conflict.
Identifying the Environmental Determinants of Lung Cancer: A Case Study of Henan, China
Authors: Liu Yan , Xu Yanqing , Li Yuchen , Wei Haitao
Published: June 2023

Lung cancer has become one of the most prevalent cancers in the last several decades. Studies have documented that most cases of lung cancer are caused by inhaling environmental carcinogens while how external environmental factors lead to individual lung cancer is still an open issue as the pathogenesis may come from the combined action of multiple environmental factors, and such pathogenic mechanism may vary from region to region. Based on the data of lung cancer cases from hospitals at the county level in Henan from 2016 to 2020, we analyzed the response relationship between lung cancer incidence and physical ambient factors (air quality, meteorological conditions, soil vegetation) and socioeconomic factors (occupational environment, medical level, heating mode, smoking behavior). We used a Bayesian spatio‐temporal interaction model to evaluate the relative risk of disease in different regions. The results showed that smoking was still the primary determinant of lung cancer, but the influence of air quality was increasing year by year, with meteorological conditions and occupational environment playing a synergistic role in this process. The high‐risk areas were concentrated in the plains of East and Central Henan and the basin of South Henan, while the low‐risk areas were concentrated in the hilly areas of North and West Henan, which were related to the topography of Henan. Our study provides a better understanding of the environmental determinants of lung cancer which will help refine existing prevention strategies and recognize the areas where actions are required to prevent environment and occupation related lung cancer.
Ecological Flow Management Identified as Leading Driver of Grassland Greening in the Gobi Desert Using Deep Learning
Authors: Li Siqi , Zheng Yi , Han Feng , Xu Peng , Chen Anping
Published: June 2023

This study develops a convolutional recurrent deep learning model to accurately predict fine‐resolution spatiotemporal changes in grass coverage in arid regions. Applying the model to the Gobi Desert reveals that ecological flow regulation contributes to 61.8% of the total increase in grass cover (130.6 km2) in the study area (40,423 km2) over 2005–2015, nearly triple the contribution of local climate change (+23.0%). The transboundary hydrological impact (+32.4%) and interactions between drivers (−17.2%) are also significant. In an intermediate future climate change scenario, we found no statistically significant trend for the total grass‐covered area due to the counteracting effects among different drivers. The study findings suggest that timely, adaptive and spatially heterogeneous ecological flow management is crucial for addressing grassland degradation in arid regions. This study provides a promising approach to land surface modeling under climate change and human disturbance and expands the existing understanding of the global greening process.
Mechanosensitive changes in the expression of genes in colorectal cancer-associated fibroblasts
Authors: Emon Bashar , Song You Jin , Joy M. Saddam H. , Kovour Mounisha V. , Prasanth Kannanganattu V. , Saif M. Taher A.
Published: June 2023

Most solid tumors become stiff with progression of cancer. Cancer Associated Fibroblasts (CAFs), most abundant stromal cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME), are known to mediate such stiffening. While the biochemical crosstalk between CAFs and cancer cells have been widely investigated, it is not clear if and how CAFs in stiffer TME promote metastatic progression. To gather insights into the process, we controlled the mechanical stiffness of the substrates and collected gene expression data with human colorectal CAFs. We cultured human primary CAFs on 2D polyacrylamide hydrogels with increasing elastic modulus (E) of 1, 10 and 40 kPa, and performed genome-wide transcriptome analyses in these cells to identify expression levels of ~16000 genes. The high-quality RNAseq results can be an excellent data-source for bioinformatic analysis for identifying novel pathways and biomarkers in cancer development and metastatic progression. With thorough analysis and accurate interpretation, this data may help researchers understand the role of mechanical stiffness of the TME in CAF-cancer cell crosstalk.
Quality of life and intrinsic capacity in patients with post-acute COVID-19 syndrome is in relation to frailty and resilience phenotypes
Authors: Guaraldi Giovanni , Milic Jovana , Barbieri Sara , Marchiò Tommaso , Caselgrandi Agnese , Motta Federico , Beghè Bianca , Verduri Alessia , Belli Michela , Gozzi Licia , Iadisernia Vittorio , Faltoni Matteo , Burastero Giulia , Dessilani Andrea , Del Monte Martina , Dolci Giovanni , Bacca Erica , Franceschi Giacomo , Yaacoub Dina , Volpi Sara , Mazzochi Alice , Clini Enrico , Mussini Cristina
Published: June 2023

The objective of this study was to characterize frailty and resilience in people evaluated for Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome (PACS), in relation to quality of life (QoL) and Intrinsic Capacity (IC). This cross-sectional, observational, study included consecutive people previously hospitalized for severe COVID-19 pneumonia attending Modena (Italy) PACS Clinic from July 2020 to April 2021. Four frailty-resilience phenotypes were built: “fit/resilient”, “fit/non-resilient”, “frail/resilient” and “frail/non-resilient”. Frailty and resilience were defined according to frailty phenotype and Connor Davidson resilience scale (CD-RISC-25) respectively. Study outcomes were: QoL assessed by means of Symptoms Short form health survey (SF-36) and health-related quality of life (EQ-5D-5L) and IC by means of a dedicated questionnaire. Their predictors including frailty-resilience phenotypes were explored in logistic regressions. 232 patients were evaluated, median age was 58.0 years. PACS was diagnosed in 173 (74.6%) patients. Scarce resilience was documented in 114 (49.1%) and frailty in 72 (31.0%) individuals. Predictors for SF-36 score < 61.60 were the phenotypes “frail/non-resilient” (OR = 4.69, CI 2.08–10.55), “fit/non-resilient” (OR = 2.79, CI 1.00–7.73). Predictors for EQ-5D-5L < 89.7% were the phenotypes “frail/non-resilient” (OR = 5.93, CI 2.64–13.33) and “frail/resilient” (OR = 5.66, CI 1.93–16.54). Predictors of impaired IC (below the mean score value) were “frail/non-resilient” (OR = 7.39, CI 3.20–17.07), and “fit/non-resilient” (OR = 4.34, CI 2.16–8.71) phenotypes. Resilience and frailty phenotypes may have a different impact on wellness and QoL and may be evaluated in people with PACS to identify vulnerable individuals that require suitable interventions.
Determinants of arterial stiffness in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a cross sectional analysis
Authors: Staef Mawadah , Ott Christian , Kannenkeril Dennis , Striepe Kristina , Schiffer Mario , Schmieder Roland E. , Bosch Agnes
Published: June 2023

In patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) arterial stiffness is associated with increased cardiovascular and total mortality. Little is known about determinants of arterial stiffness in clinical routine. Identification of potential determinants of arterial stiffness will help to address treatment targets for patients in the early state of T2DM. This is a cross-sectional analysis of arterial stiffness in 266 patients in the early stage of T2DM who did not have cardiovascular or renal complications. Parameters of arterial stiffness such as central systolic blood pressure (cSBP), central pulse pressure (cPP) and pulse wave velocity (PWV) were measured with the SphygmoCor System (AtCor Medical). We investigated the influence of parameters of glucose metabolism, lipid status, body constitution, blood pressure (BP) and inflammation on the stiffness parameters using multivariate regression analysis. The study cohort consisted of male and female patients aged 61 ± 8 years with mean diabetes duration of 6.4 ± 5.1 years, mean HbA1c 7.1 ± 0.9%, mean cSBP 121 ± 12 mmHg, mean cPP 44 ± 10 mmHg and mean PWV 8.9 ± 1.8 m/s. Multiple regression analysis identified waist circumference (WC) (beta = 0.411, p = 0.026), LDL-cholesterol (beta = 0.106, p = 0.006), systolic office BP (beta = 0.936, p < 0.001) and diabetes duration (beta = 0.233, p = 0.043) as potential determinants of cSBP. cPP was determined by sex (beta = 0.330, p = 0.008), age (beta = 0.383, p < 0.001), systolic office BP (beta = 0.370, p < 0.001) and diabetes duration (beta = 0.231, p = 0.028) whereas for PWV the following determinants could be identified: age (beta = 0.405, p < 0.001), systolic office BP (beta = 0.421, p < 0.001) and diabetes duration (beta = 0.073, p = 0.038). In addition to the known parameters age, sex and systolic office BP serum LDL-cholesterol, WC and diabetes duration have been identified as determinants of arterial stiffness in patients with T2DM. Treatment of patients in the early stage of T2DM should focus on these clinical parameters to prevent progression of arterial stiffness and as a consequence reduce cardiovascular mortality.

Trial registration: The patients included in the analysis participated in one of the following clinical trials NCT02752113 (registered 26.4.2016), NCT02383238 (09.03.2015), NCT02471963 (15.06.2015), NCT01319357 (21.03.2011) (http://www.clinicaltrials.gov).
Metal artifacts reduction in kV-CT images with polymetallic dentures and complex metals based on MV-CBCT images in radiotherapy
Authors: Ni Xiaochen , Shi Zhonghua , Song Xinmao , Tang Tianci , Li Shengwei , Hou Zhenfeng , Zhang Wei , Wang Wei Fang , Chen Fu , Li Ji , Yang Gang , Li Ruichen , Wang Xiaoshen
Published: June 2023

This paper proposes a metal artifact reduction method of using MV-CBCT images to correct metal artifacts in kV-CT images, especially for the complex metal artifacts caused by multi-metal interaction of patients with head and neck tumors. The different tissue regions are segmented in the MV-CBCT images to obtain template images and the metal region is segmented in the kV-CT images. Forward projection is performed to get sinogram of the template images, kV-CT images and metal region images. Artifact images can be reconstructed through those sonograms. Corrected images is generated by subtracting the artifact images from the original kV-CT images. After the first correction, the template images are generated again and brought into the previous step for iteration to get better correction result. CT data set of 7 patients are used in this study, compared with linear interpolation metal artifact (LIMAR) and normalized metal artifact reduction method, mean relative error of CT value is reduced by 50.5% and 63.3%, noise is reduced by 56.2% and 58.9%. The Identifiability Score of the tooth, upper/lower jaw, tongue, lips, masseter muscle and cavity in the corrected images by the proposed method have significantly improved (P < 0.05) than original images. The artifacts correction method proposed in this paper can effectively remove the metal artifacts in the images and greatly improve the CT value accuracy, especially in the case of multi-metal and complex metal implantation.
Novel N′-substituted benzylidene benzohydrazides linked to 1,2,3-triazoles: potent α-glucosidase inhibitors
Authors: Saeedi Mina , Hariri Roshanak , Iraji Aida , Ahmadi Ali , Mojtabavi Somayeh , Golshani Shiva , Faramarzi Mohammad Ali , Akbarzadeh Tahmineh
Published: June 2023

Herein, various N′-substituted benzylidene benzohydrazide-1,2,3-triazoles were designed, synthesized, and screened for their inhibitory activity toward α-glucosidase. The structure of derivatives was confirmed using 1H- and 13C-NMR, FTIR, Mass spectrometry, and elemental analysis. All derivatives exhibited good inhibition with IC50 values in the range of 0.01 to 648.90 µM, compared with acarbose as the positive control (IC50 = 752.10 µM). Among them, compounds 7a and 7h showed significant potency with IC50 values of 0.02 and 0.01 µM, respectively. The kinetic study revealed that they are noncompetitive inhibitors toward α-glucosidase. Also, fluorescence quenching was used to investigate the interaction of three inhibitors 7a, 7d, and 7h, with α-glucosidase. Accordingly, the binding constants, the number of binding sites, and values of thermodynamic parameters were determined for the interaction of candidate compounds toward the enzyme. Finally, the in silico cavity detection plus molecular docking was performed to find the allosteric site and key interactions between synthesized compounds and the target enzyme.
Corrosion inhibition properties of schiff base derivative against mild steel in HCl environment complemented with DFT investigations
Authors: Betti Nadia , Al-Amiery Ahmed A. , Al-Azzawi Waleed Khalid , Isahak Wan Nor Roslam Wan
Published: June 2023

There is growing interest in using corrosion inhibitors and protective treatments to limit the degradation of mild steel, leading to the development of numerous Schiff bases as cutting-edge inhibitors. In this study, the effectiveness of a Schiff base, 3-((5-mercapto-1,3,4-thiadiazol-2-yl)imino)indolin-2-one (MTIO), to prevent mild steel corrosion in HCl was investigated using weight loss measurements, potentiodynamic polarization measurements, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy techniques, and surface characterization. The experimental results showed that 0.5 mM MTIO exhibited a satisfactory inhibitor efficiency of 96.9% at 303 K. The MTIO molecules physically and chemically adsorbed onto the mild steel surface following the Langmuir model, forming a compact protective film attributed to the presence of a thiazole ring in the MTIO structure. Theoretical calculations were combined with experimental techniques to investigate the anticorrosion performance and mechanism of inhibition.
A retrospective study of the accuracy of Invisalign Progress Assessment with clear aligners
Authors: Li Bo , Xu Yi-Meng , Shi Rui-Ying , Hu Yi-Rong , Liu Si-Ying , Gu Ze-Xu
Published: June 2023

The objective of this study was to detective the accuracy of model superimposition and automatic analysis for upper and lower dentition width in Invisalign Progress Assessment during the process of clear aligners. 19 cases were included in this study. Pre-treatment dental cast (T0) and post-treatment dental cast after staged treatment (T1) were available for three-dimensional model superimposition. Subsequently, movements of maxillary teeth in the horizontal plane (cross-section) after staged treatment and width of upper and lower dentition were measured by three-dimensional model superimposition in the real world and Invisalign Progress Assessment separately. Consequently, the data collected from these two methods were compared. In Invisalign Progress Assessment, movements of maxillary teeth in the horizontal plane after staged treatment was 2.31 (1.59,3.22) [median (upper quartile, lower quartile)] millimeter (mm), while in three-dimensional model superimposition, the result was 1.79 (1.21,3.03) mm. The difference between the two groups is significant (P < 0.05). Intercanine width upper, intermolar width upper, intercanine width lower, and intermolar width lower were 36.55 ± 2.76 mm, 56.98 ± 2.62 mm, 28.16 ± 1.85 mm, 53.21 ± 2.72 mm separately in Invisalign Progress Assessment and were 36.48 ± 2.78 mm, 56.89 ± 2.58 mm, 28.05 ± 1.85 mm, 53.16 ± 2.64 mm separately in three-dimensional model analysis, which was no significant difference among these groups (P > 0.05). The data from Invisalign Progress Assessment was not in parallel with what was achieved from model superimposition with palate as a reference completely. The accuracy of model superimposition in Invisalign Progress Assessment needs further investigation, whereas the accuracy of model analysis in Invisalign Progress Assessment was accurate. Thereby, results from Invisalign Progress Assessment should be interpreted with caution by the orthodontist in the clinic.
Integrated bioinformatics analysis for identifying key genes and pathways in female and male patients with dilated cardiomyopathy
Authors: Zhang Min , Wang Xinzhou , Chen Wenbo , Liu Wei , Xin Jile , Yang Debao , Zhang Zhongyuan , Zheng Xiaoke
Published: June 2023

Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a common cause of heart failure, and males are more likely to suffer from DCM than females. This research aimed at exploring possible DCM-associated genes and their latent regulatory effects in female and male patients. WGCNA analysis found that in the yellow module, 341 and 367 key DEGs were identified in females and males, respectively. A total of 22 hub genes in females and 17 hub genes in males were identified from the PPI networks of the key DEGs based on Metascape database. And twelve and eight potential TFs of the key DEGs were also identified in females and males, respectively. Eight miRNAs of 15 key DEGs were screened in both females and males, which may be differentially expressed in females and males. Dual-luciferase reporter assay demonstrated that miR-21-5P could directly target the key gene MATN2. Furthermore, Sex differences in KEGG pathways were identified. Both KOBAS and GSEA analysis identified 19 significantly enriched pathways related to immune response in both females and males, and the TGF-β signaling pathway was exclusively identified in males. Network pharmacology analysis revealed that seven key DEGs were potential targets for the treatment of DCM, of which the OLR1 gene was only identified in males, the expression levels of the seven genes were verified by RT-PCR. The above results could offer a novel understanding of sex differences in key genes and pathways in DCM progression.
New genomic insights into the conformation of Lipizzan horses
Authors: Gmel A. I. , Brem G. , Neuditschko M.
Published: June 2023

Conformation traits are important selection criteria in equine breeding, as they describe the exterior aspects of the horse (height, joint angles, shape). However, the genetic architecture of conformation is not well understood, as data of these traits mainly consist of subjective evaluation scores. Here, we performed genome-wide association studies on two-dimensional shape data of Lipizzan horses. Based on this data, we identified significant quantitative trait loci (QTL) associated with cresty neck on equine chromosome (ECA)16 within the MAGI1 gene, and with type, hereby differentiating heavy from light horses on ECA5 within the POU2F1 gene. Both genes were previously described to affect growth, muscling and fatty deposits in sheep, cattle and pigs. Furthermore, we pin-pointed another suggestive QTL on ECA21, near the PTGER4 gene, associated with human ankylosing spondylitis, for shape differences in the back and pelvis (roach back vs sway back). Further differences in the shape of the back and abdomen were suggestively associated with the RYR1 gene, involved in core muscle weakness in humans. Therefore, we demonstrated that horse shape space data enhance the genomic investigations of horse conformation.
Targeting the post-synaptic proteome has therapeutic potential for psychosis in Alzheimer Disease
Authors: Krivinko J. M. , DeChellis-Marks M. R. , Zeng L. , Fan P. , Lopez O. L. , Ding Y. , Wang L. , Kofler J. , MacDonald M. L. , Sweet R. A.
Published: June 2023

Individuals with Alzheimer Disease who develop psychotic symptoms (AD + P) experience more rapid cognitive decline and have reduced indices of synaptic integrity relative to those without psychosis (AD-P). We sought to determine whether the postsynaptic density (PSD) proteome is altered in AD + P relative to AD-P, analyzing PSDs from dorsolateral prefrontal cortex of AD + P, AD-P, and a reference group of cognitively normal elderly subjects. The PSD proteome of AD + P showed a global shift towards lower levels of all proteins relative to AD-P, enriched for kinases, proteins regulating Rho GTPases, and other regulators of the actin cytoskeleton. We computationally identified potential novel therapies predicted to reverse the PSD protein signature of AD + P. Five days of administration of one of these drugs, the C-C Motif Chemokine Receptor 5 inhibitor, maraviroc, led to a net reversal of the PSD protein signature in adult mice, nominating it as a novel potential treatment for AD + P.
PtII(C^N)(N-donor ligand)Cl-type complexes showing highly sensitive aggregation-induced phosphorescence emission (AIPE) behavior fulfilled by long-size ligands and a distorted molecular configuration
Authors: Lu Xinyue , Liu Siqi , Chen Xi , Feng Zhao , Zhong Daokun , Yang Xiaolong , Sun Yuanhui , Su Bochao , Zhou Guijiang , Jiao Bo , Wu Zhaoxin
Published: June 2023

A series of four-coordinated PtII(C^N)(N-donor ligand)Cl-type complexes have been synthesized through a combination of long-size C^N-type and N-donor ligands.
Cathode regeneration and upcycling of spent LIBs: toward sustainability
Authors: Xiao Xiang , Wang Li , Wu Yingqiang , Song Youzhi , Chen Zonghai , He Xiangming
Published: June 2023

Cathode regeneration and upcycling technologies, aimed at non-destructively recovering and upgrading the electrochemical performance of degraded materials, show excellent flexibility and potential for transforming the LIB industry from a resource-based to a circular economy.
High-flux smartphone-integrated lateral flow assay based on chrysanthemum-like Au@polydopamine for sensitive detection of enrofloxacin in milk
Authors: Zhang Ganggang , Lai Xiaocui , He Weihua , Su Liu , Zhang Gan , Lai Weihua , Deng Shengliang
Published: June 2023

A smartphone-integrated device and a multichannel strip plate were developed and applied in the LFA, giving rise to a maximum of 64-sample detection in less than 17 min.
Two dimensional NbSe2/Nb2O5 metal–semiconductor heterostructure-based photoelectrochemical photodetector with fast response and high flexibility
Authors: Xu Xiang , Lu Chunhui , Wang Ying , Bai Xing , Liu Zenghui , Zhang Ying , Hua Dengxin
Published: June 2023

Two dimensional (2D) metal–semiconductor heterostructures are promising for high-performance optoelectronic devices due to fast carrier separation and transportation.
Comparing individual-based models of collective cell motion in a benchmark flow geometry
Authors: Beatrici Carine , Kirch Cássio , Henkes Silke , Graner François , Brunnet Leonardo
Published: June 2023

Collectively coordinated cell migration plays a role in tissue embryogenesis, cancer, homeostasis and healing. We here compare five simulation models of collective cell migration, chosen to be representative in increasing order of included detail.
Valorisation of Sargassum muticum through the extraction of phenolic compounds using eutectic solvents and intensification techniques
Authors: Jesus Bárbara C. , Sáenz de Miera Blanca , Santiago Rubén , Martins Alice , Pedrosa Rui , González-Miquel Maria , Marrucho Isabel M.
Published: June 2023

Green extraction of phenolic compounds from Sargassum muticum, a brown seaweed found on the Portuguese coast that is often considered bio-waste due to its invasive nature, using biocompatible eutectic solvents.
Using human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived liver cells to investigate the mechanisms of liver fibrosis in vitro
Authors: Koui Yuta , Kido Taketomo
Published: June 2023

The liver is a highly organized organ that consists of hepatic parenchymal cells, hepatocytes, and non-parenchymal cells such as the liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs), hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), cholangiocytes, and Kupffer cells. Although previous studies have primarily focused on the hepatocyte dynamics in the injured liver, recent studies have shown that non-parenchymal cells play an essential role in both liver regeneration and liver fibrosis progression. Among the non-parenchymal cells, HSCs directly contribute to the progression of liver fibrosis because the activation of HSCs in response to liver injury or inflammation results in the excess production of extra cellular matrix. LSECs also contribute to modulate the function of hepatocytes, HSCs, and immune cells during liver fibrosis. Therefore, to investigate the mechanisms for liver fibrosis in vitro, it is necessary to develop an appropriate liver model that accurately recapitulates the pathology of human liver fibrosis including HSC activation. However, the supply of human cells is limited and freshly isolated liver cells easily lose their specific characteristics in culture. To overcome this shortage of human liver cells, human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-derived liver cells were generated by mimicking the liver developmental process. In this review article, we outline the differentiation system of liver non-parenchymal cells from hiPSCs and development of in vitro liver disease models using hiPSC-derived liver cells. We describe the utility of these liver models as experimental systems to investigate the mechanism of liver fibrosis and development of drugs for the treatment thereof.
Home Literacy Environment and Interventions for Children With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities: A Scoping Review
Authors: Biggs Elizabeth E. , Arserio Allyson P. , Robison Sarah E. , Ross Madison E.
Published: June 2023

Purpose:

The aim of this scoping review was to map the research literature published in English and in peer-reviewed journals related to the home literacy environment of children and youth aged 3–21 years with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) who have significant support needs, including children with complex communication needs.

Method:

A systematic search was conducted in four databases, along with forward and backward searching. The search yielded 60 studies, which included intervention and nonintervention studies. Data were charted related to participant characteristics, study focus, intervention components, study design and methodological rigor, and study results.

Results:

Findings provided insight into multiple dimensions of the home literacy environment for children with IDD, including the nature of parent views, practices, and interaction styles during shared reading. Findings also revealed gaps in the literature, specifically related to (a) limited representation of subgroups of children and youth with IDD, (b) limited representation of diverse families and caregivers, and (c) concerns about methodological quality.

Conclusion:

This review identifies important directions for future research and suggests ways to improve the design and delivery of home literacy interventions for children and youth with IDD and their families, including through family-centered and culturally responsive models.

Supplemental Material:

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.22704817
Tunable catalytic release of nitric oxide via copper‐loaded coatings on titanium nanotubes for regulating biological performance
Authors: Li Zhiyong , Zhang Lu , Zhou Lei , Li Xin , Zhao Yuancong , Wang Jin
Published: June 2023

Severe lesions in vessels need to be treated with implantable interventional devices such as vascular stents, which should be anti‐coagulantion, anti‐proliferation and promoting endothelialisation. Nitric oxide (NO), as a physiological gas signalling molecule, play an important role in revascularisation. Catalysing the release of NO from endogenous donors has already been widely favoured to treatment strategy for lesioned vessels. In this work, a series of copper‐loaded coatings (titanium nanotube (TNT)/PDA‐Cu) was fabricated by TNTs combined with polydopamine and ions, which achieve controlled in situ catalytic release of NO. This strategy could effectively immobilised copper ions on TNTs, and promoted the proliferation of endothelial cells and inhibited growth of smooth muscle cells (SMCs) via the performance of NO, as well as restrain the platelet adhesion. With the multiple function, TNT/PDA‐Cu provides a promise approach for promoting endothelialisation, anti‐coagulation and inhibition of SMC proliferation via copper‐loaded coatings on TNTs.
Investigating the performance of non‐standard characteristics‐based overcurrent relays and their optimum coordination in distributed generators connected networks
Authors: Vala Tejas M. , Rajput Vipul N. , Al‐Sumaiti Ameena Saad
Published: June 2023

To handle the challenges attributed to the distributed generators, the protection system of distribution networks needs to be evolved. Recent protection schemes modify the standard characteristics of overcurrent relays, called non‐standard characteristics. These non‐standard characteristics are mostly case‐dependent and have limitations in solving the variety of protection challenges attributed to distributed generators. This paper analyses the performance of six voltage‐based non‐standard characteristics on photovoltaic distributed generators (PVDG) penetrated 3‐bus, 8‐bus, and IEEE 30‐bus distribution grid, as well as the 9‐bus Canadian radial distribution grid with synchronous distributed generator, wind turbine generator, and PVDG penetrations. Besides that, the optimum coordination of these non‐standard characteristics‐based overcurrent relays is a complex problem due to the involvement of additional controlling parameters. To find the best suitable method, a comparative analysis of the genetic algorithm, differential evolution, artificial bee colony, harmony search algorithm, firefly algorithm, cuckoo search algorithm and particle swarm optimization are performed for optimum relay coordination. The outcomes of the paper are thoroughly discussed for future research on non‐standard characteristics development.
Exploring the potential of shared electric vehicles from e‐mobility hubs as an alternative for commute and food shopping trips
Authors: Bösehans Gustav , Kavta Kuldeep , Bell Margaret Carol , Dissanayake Dilum
Published: June 2023

Electric shared mobility hubs, called eHUBs, offer users access to a range of shared electric vehicles, including e‐bikes, e‐cargobikes, and e‐cars. Through the diversity of modes offered, eHUBs provide mobility solutions for different target groups and trip purposes. In this study, potential users’ willingness to use shared electric vehicles from eHUBs as either a commute or food shopping trip alternative was analysed using logistic regression methods. Results indicated that half of respondents were willing to use shared electric vehicles for at least a few of their regular commute or food shopping trips, although this proportion dropped substantially if considering the use of shared vehicles in combination with public transport. Across modes and trip purposes, holding a pro‐shared mobility attitude and belonging to the youngest age group strongly increased the willingness to use shared modes. Yet, while eHUBS may offer a potential alternative for at least some of people's regular commute or food shopping trips, cross‐mode shifts may be limited. That is, car drivers show a greater interest in shared e‐cars, whereas cyclists show a greater interest in e‐bikes and e‐cargobikes with public transport. Further influential factors, as well as implications for both shared mobility providers and local authorities, are discussed.
Carrier synchronisation in multiband carrierless amplitude and phase modulation for visible light communication‐based IoT systems
Authors: Rodrigues Luís , Figueiredo Mónica , Alves Luís Nero , Ghassemlooy Zabih
Published: June 2023

The technical feasibility of developing an Internet of Things multi‐user communication system is evaluated based on a central digital multiband carrierless amplitude and phase transmitter, which broadcasts data on multiple channels for a number of low‐cost/low‐power devices. It addresses the issue of carrier synchronisation, which is critical in real‐world implementations because of imperfections of devices and the delays of the system. A simulation model for the traditional Costas Loop is presented, along with performance results, which demonstrate the system's ability to synchronise with pull‐in and lock ranges of ±800 and ±900 Hz, respectively. The loop requires 1.194 ms to be in the locked state, allowing the system to lock within 6 symbols period. In addition, the authors measured the performance of the system in the presence of noise and interference from other modulated bands. The results showed that noise and interference did not degrade the system's performance. Although the system was unable to lock when energy was present in adjacent bands, alternative options such as a high order phase‐locked loop and hybrid frequency‐division multiple access and time‐division multiple access, can improve system performance without significantly increasing the cost and complexity of the devices.
Origin of anomalous instability of grid‐forming converters tied to stiff grid
Authors: Hong Zhenkun , Xu Hongsheng , Hou Zhuoqi , Zhan Meng
Published: June 2023

Grid‐forming (GFM) converter is believed to be highly promising in the future power systems, due to its ability of providing voltage and frequency support. However, some recent studies have shown that the GFM converter may suffer from instability in stiff grids, which seriously hampers its application. In this paper, the mechanism of this anomalous effect is studied by using the small‐signal stability analysis in detail. First, a detailed state‐space model of a single converter grid‐tied system is established from the first principle, and by using the participation factor analysis, the interaction between the terminal voltage loop and the power synchronization loop is identified as the major cause for the system instability. Then relying on a reduced‐order model containing only these two controls and using two classical analytical methods including the Routh criterion analysis and the Phillips– Heffron model of complex torque analysis, the origin of this anomalous instability of GFM converters tied to stiff grid coming from the negative damping provided by the terminal voltage loop is well uncovered and the critical grid strength is well predicted. In addition, these results may provide ideas for subsequent control optimization and stability improvement of GFM converters under various situations.
Molecular imprinted solid phase extraction combined with determination of diethylstilbestrol in environmental water samples
Authors: Zhao Xuan , Rong Fei
Published: June 2023

Phenolic environmental estrogens (PEEs) are representative of environmental estrogens, which are commonly known as bisphenol, alkyl phenols, triazine herbicides, and non-steroidal estrogens such as diethylstilbestrol. Diethylstilbestrol is on the list of drugs and other compounds prohibited in food animals. Therefore, the control of its illegal use has become a very urgent problem, and it is very necessary to analyze the estrogen residue in environmental water samples. In this study, molecularly imprinted nanofiber membrane was prepared by electrospinning, and samples were pre-treated with solid phase extraction technology, which was applied to the detection of estrostilbestrol in the environment. For the detection degree of diethylstilbestrol in different water samples, the recovery rate of molecularly imprinted nanofibers was significantly higher than that of blank nanofibers and C18 column. The combination of molecular imprinting and solid phase extraction is effective for the enrichment of trace substances. This study provides an effective method for screening and identification of estrogen in environmental water samples, and further improves the accuracy of detection of corresponding estrogen.
Multiple regression analysis of the impact of market incentive environmental regulation on mining industry structure based on stata software
Authors: Li Haiting
Published: June 2023

Based on the provincial panel data of 30 provinces except Xizang from 2006 to 2017, this study constructs a multiple regression analysis model with the optimization of mining industry structure as the explained variable, market incentive environmental regulation as the explanatory variable, and technological innovation, enterprise access, foreign direct investment, market demand for mineral products, and resource endowment of mineral resources as the control variable. In addition, stata15.0 software was used to empirically analyze the influence of market incentive environmental regulation on the adjustment of mining industry structure at the national level, and to compare and analyze the influence of market incentive environmental regulation on the optimization of mining industry structure in the eastern coastal areas and the central and western regions. Finally, according to the results of regression analysis, corresponding suggestions are put forward.
Characterization of Atmospheric Particulate Matter in Oil-Resource Cities and its Impact on Health: Daqing City, Northeast China
Authors: Xu Lei , Shi Jiawen , Fang Chunsheng
Published: June 2023

Atmospheric pollution can affect human production life and physical and mental health to a great extent. In this paper, the hourly pollutant monitoring data from five state-controlled automatic atmospheric monitoring stations in Daqing City from 2017 to 2021 are collected to analyze the temporal and spatial variation patterns of CO, SO2, NO2, PM2.5, PM10, O3. And to assess the health risks of atmospheric particulate matter. The HYSPLIT model is applied to analyze air pollutants' transport pathways and the potential source areas of atmospheric particulate matter with the PSCF model. The results show that the concentrations of SO2 and NO2 are higher in the north of Daqing and the concentrations of pollutants generally show a decreasing trend with time. The hazard quotient (HQ) for atmospheric particulate matter, which is slightly above the safe range set by the EPA, is higher in winter and spring. After principal component analysis, CO, NO2, and PM10 are the main factors affecting PM2.5. In the summer, the main urban area's air pollution is mostly influenced by the southwest pollution trajectory. In other seasons, the northwest route predominantly regulates the regional transfer of contaminants. The key regions that could be the sources of atmospheric particulate matter include North China, Inner Mongolia, Mongolia, and Russia.
Exploration of remediation techniques for heavy metal environmental pollution
Authors: Cheng Haozhan , Gu Wentan , Wang Jingyi , Li Xintong , Ji Mingyu
Published: June 2023

With the accelerated industrialization and urbanization, more and more companies are discharging waste water, sludge and gas in their production processes, as well as the unreasonable use of pesticides and fertilizers, resulting in the accumulation of heavy metals on agricultural land and causing serious soil pollution problems. Soil pollution not only reduces the yield and quality of crops, but also endangers human health through the food chain. Since the release of the "10-Chapter Soil Pollution Action Plan", there has been unprecedented attention in dealing with heavy metal pollution in the environment, and the choice of treatment technology and materials is very important. Therefore, this paper discusses the remediation technology after environmental pollution by heavy metals in soil as an example.
Development of Hydropower and the Environmental Impacts of Hydroelectric Dam Construction in China
Authors: Sun Shingwun
Published: June 2023

The need to mitigate climate change and reduce carbon emissions has resulted in an increasing demand for the transition from fossil fuels to renewable sources of energy. Hydropower, in particular, has emerged as a prominent and extensively developed source of renewable energy in recent decades. This specific renewable energy harnesses the kinetic energy of falling or fast-flowing water to generate electricity. Despite being a dependable, adaptable, and cost-effective energy source, previous studies have highlighted the detrimental ecological effects of hydropower, ranging from altered land use to the disruption of natural habitats in the vicinity of dams. The main purpose of this study is two-fold. First, the change of renewable energy, particularly hydropower, is evaluated from 2000 to 2020 in China and globally, highlighting the leading role of hydropower in renewable energy generation. Second, this study aims to investigate the environmental influences of large hydroelectric dam construction and perform a case study of the Three Gorges Dam in China. The Pearson's linear correlation analysis was utilized to identify the association between hydropower and climate, and biodiversity, individually. Although dam construction can boost hydroelectricity generation, it can also have adverse effects on the regional climate and result in substantial depletion of biodiversity. This study will shed light on potentially reliable strategies to optimize the advantages of hydropower and minimize the negative environmental impacts of large-scale dam construction.
Study on Spatial layout and Environmental Equity of Urban green Space in Nanning City based on GIS
Authors: Peixi Xie
Published: June 2023

Urban green space plays a vital role in urban environment. The research finds that at present, the domestic focus of urban green space is mainly focused on the internal relationship between economic, social and spatial change, but there is still a lack of attention to its impact on environmental equity. In this paper, taking Nanning City as an example, the kernel density estimation method is used to evaluate the impact of urban green space on environmental justice based on the analysis of the characteristics of urban green space layout, and explore its causes. The results show that the distribution of green space in Nanning is characterized by "overall dispersion, local concentration, more in the north and less in the south". There are deficiencies in the spatial distribution equilibrium of green space resources in the main urban area and the level of per capita access to green space resources, and the service level of green space needs to be improved.