bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Covalent organic framework-based lamellar membranes for water desalination applications
Authors: Ali Akbar , Thebo Muzmil , Janwary Dahar , Iqbal Muzaffar , Mughal Waqas , Yang Jun , Thebo Khalid Hussain
Published: August 2023

This review summarizes the current fabrication methods of COF-based lamellar membranes, and discusses their application in water desalination.
Design of heterogeneous sandwich-structured dielectric composites with excellent charge–discharge efficiency and energy storage density
Authors: Zhang Yue , He Xin , Li Sen , Zhang Yongquan , Zhang Tiandong , Wang Xuan , Chen Cai , Zhang Changhai
Published: August 2023

With the rapid development of new energy fields, polymer-based film capacitors have received extensive attention in the field of dielectric capacitors due to their high power density.
Cancer-associated somatic mutations in human phosphofructokinase-1 reveal a critical electrostatic interaction for allosteric regulation of enzyme activity
Authors: Voronkova Maria A. , Hansen Heather L. , Cooper Madison P. , Miller Jacob , Sukumar Narayanasami , Geldenhuys Werner J. , Robart Aaron R. , Webb Bradley A.
Published: August 2023

Metabolic reprogramming, including increased glucose uptake and lactic acid excretion, is a hallmark of cancer. The glycolytic ‘gatekeeper’ enzyme phosphofructokinase-1 (PFK1), which catalyzes the step committing glucose to breakdown, is dysregulated in cancers. While altered PFK1 activity and expression in tumors have been demonstrated, little is known about the effects of cancer-associated somatic mutations. Somatic mutations in PFK1 inform our understanding of allosteric regulation by identifying key amino acid residues involved in the regulation of enzyme activity. Here, we characterized mutations disrupting an evolutionarily conserved salt bridge between aspartic acid and arginine in human platelet (PFKP) and liver (PFKL) isoforms. Using purified recombinant proteins, we showed that disruption of the Asp–Arg pair in two PFK1 isoforms decreased enzyme activity and altered allosteric regulation. We determined the crystal structure of PFK1 to 3.6 Å resolution and used molecular dynamic simulations to understand molecular mechanisms of altered allosteric regulation. We showed that PFKP-D564N had a decreased total system energy and changes in the electrostatic surface potential of the effector site. Cells expressing PFKP-D564N demonstrated a decreased rate of glycolysis, while their ability to induce glycolytic flux under conditions of low cellular energy was enhanced compared with cells expressing wild-type PFKP. Taken together, these results suggest that mutations in Arg–Asp pair at the interface of the catalytic-regulatory domains stabilizes the t-state and presents novel mechanistic insight for therapeutic development in cancer.
The ARF GTPase regulatory network in collective invasion and metastasis
Authors: Nikolatou Konstantina , Bryant David M. , Sandilands Emma
Published: August 2023

The ability to remodel and move cellular membranes, and the cargoes regulated by these membranes, allows for specialised functions to occur in distinct regions of the cell in a process known as cellular polarisation. The ability to collectively co-ordinate such polarisation between cells allows for the genesis of multicellularity, such as the formation of organs. During tumourigenesis, the rules for such tissue polarisation become dysregulated, allowing for collective polarity rearrangements that can drive metastasis. In this review, we focus on how membrane trafficking underpins collective cell invasion and metastasis in cancer. We examine this through the lens of the ADP-ribosylation factor (ARF) subfamily of small GTPases, focusing on how the ARF regulatory network — ARF activators, inactivators, effectors, and modifications — controls ARF GTPase function.
Recent advances in the structure and activation mechanisms of metabolite-releasing Pannexin 1 channels
Authors: Wu Yi-Ling , Yang Ai-Hsing , Chiu Yu-Hsin
Published: August 2023

Pannexin 1 (PANX1) is a widely expressed large-pore ion channel located in the plasma membrane of almost all vertebrate cells. It possesses a unique ability to act as a conduit for both inorganic ions (e.g. potassium or chloride) and bioactive metabolites (e.g. ATP or glutamate), thereby activating varying signaling pathways in an autocrine or paracrine manner. Given its crucial role in cell–cell interactions, the activity of PANX1 has been implicated in maintaining homeostasis of cardiovascular, immune, and nervous systems. Dysregulation of PANX1 has also been linked to numerous diseases, such as ischemic stroke, seizure, and inflammatory disorders. Therefore, the mechanisms underlying different modes of PANX1 activation and its context-specific channel properties have gathered significant attention. In this review, we summarize the roles of PANX1 in various physiological processes and diseases, and analyze the accumulated lines of evidence supporting diverse molecular mechanisms associated with different PANX1 activation modalities. We focus on examining recent discoveries regarding PANX1 regulations by reversible post-translational modifications, elevated intracellular calcium concentration, and protein–protein interactions, as well as by irreversible cleavage of its C-terminal tail. Additionally, we delve into the caveats in the proposed PANX1 gating mechanisms and channel open-closed configurations by critically analyzing the structural insights derived from cryo-EM studies and the unitary properties of PANX1 channels. By doing so, we aim to identify potential research directions for a better understanding of the functions and regulations of PANX1 channels.
The Acoustic and Perceptual Correlates of Gender in Children's Voices
Authors: Funk Riccarda , Simpson Adrian P.
Published: August 2023

Purpose:

This study investigates the perceptual and acoustic correlates of gender in prepubertal voices. The study is part of a longitudinal project analyzing recordings of circa 60 German primary school children from the first to fourth grades (6- to 10-year-olds).

Method:

Spontaneous and content-controlled audio recordings were made of 62 first-grade children (29 girls, 33 boys; age: 6- to 7-year-olds) from two German primary schools. Information on gender conformity was also recorded. A total of 167 listeners judged the gender of the voices on a 7-point scale. The results of the listening experiments and gender conformity ratings were related to a range of typical acoustic parameters.

Results:

Measures of self-reported gender conformity differ significantly between the boys and the girls. Sixteen of the 62 children show unambiguous gender attributions in the listening experiment. A hierarchical cluster analysis including gender perception, gender conformity, and acoustic parameters shows four different types of speakers. Two multiple regression models revealed a significant main effect of fundamental frequency on the gender perception ratings of the listening experiment across and within gender. Significant correlations were found between the center of gravity and skewness of the sibilants and gender conformity, especially for the male speakers.

Conclusions:

Fundamental frequency plays an important role in influencing perceptual judgments, whereas sibilant spectra are correlated with gender conformity. In further listening experiments, we will examine in more detail the role of individual acoustic parameters and analyze how the vocal expression of gender and gender conformity in individual children develops before reaching puberty.
A novel method for Ion Exchange Capacity characterization applied to Anion Exchange Membranes for Water Electrolysers
Authors: D’Alessandro Alessio , Moranda Arianna , Campione Manuele , Riva Andrea , Paladino Ombretta
Published: August 2023

Hydrogen production from water electrolysis, hydrogen fuel cells and redox flow batteries are the right approach for the renewable energy sector because the electricity generated by solar, wind, photovoltaic, hydroelectric can be managed with a carbon-free approach. These technologies all have in common one fundamental component: the membrane. Different types of membranes have been developed for both cationic and anionic exchange, and recently, research activity focalized on improving their performances is very fervent. One fundamental characteristic of a membrane is its Ion Exchange Capacity (IEC), i.e. the density of charged functionalizing groups. Within our research project NEMESI, funded by EU-PNRR (ID: RSH2B_000002), and dedicated to Anion Exchange Membrane Water Electrolysis, we studied and validated a novel alternative method to measure IEC. The present titration methods have limitations for the need of dedicated hardware or qualitative inspection of their color-turning endpoint. The proposed method, based on the redox titration of potassium ferricyanide with ascorbic acid, allows a quantitative and independent assessment based on both potentiometric and spectrophotometric measurements, along with the usually adopted visual observation, as the yellow-colored ferricyanide is reduced to colorless ferrocyanide. Moreover, if compared to the classical Mohr titration with silver nitrate, the new method can be carried out at variable ferricyanide concentrations during the addition of the ascorbic acid, so a complete curve of the redox reaction can be constructed: the initial ferricyanide ion load of the membrane (IEC) can thus be derived in a more precise way than with a single-point evaluation. Only one Ag/AgCl reference electrode and a platinum working electrode are required without any power supply/potentiostat. The proposed method was validated using Anion Exchange Membranes with known IEC.
A renewable energy and hydrogen storage system for residential electricity supply
Authors: Di Micco Simona , Romano Fabiana , Lanni Davide , Perna Alessandra , Cigolotti Viviana , Russo Maria Teresa , Miranda Claudio , Minutillo Mariagiovanna
Published: August 2023

Because of the intermittent behavior of renewable sources, efficient, reliable and clean energy storage technologies are needed to achieve a more stable and secure energy supply. In this context, hydrogen technologies play a key role because they can store large amount of energy for long time. In this study, a hydrogen-based electrical energy storage system, integrated with a solar power plant, is designed and analyzed from the energy perspective. The system consists of a photovoltaic power plant, an alkaline electrolysis unit, metal hydride tanks for hydrogen storage, a Li-ion battery unit and a polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell module. The system is conceived for supplying a residential user. A numerical model is developed for sizing the system’s components and for evaluating their behaviors in terms of produced/stored electricity and hydrogen production. In this purpose, a sensitivity analysis varying PV plant size as well as the Li-ion battery capacity is performed for achieving the best compromise in terms of energy supply among all the considered power sources.
An investigation of modelling parameters for surge phenomenon in axial compressors
Authors: Purushothaman Sreenath , Traverso Alberto , Mantelli Luca , Massardo Aristide
Published: August 2023

Axial compressors have been used in areas such as propulsion and power generation for many decades now. The development of compressors has been accompanied by the identification of gas dynamic instabilities during their operation, such as surge and stall, and the subsequent development of technologies to mitigate such problems. A widely employed lumped model for studying post stall phenomenon, usually referred to as Moore-Greitzer model, involves combining the geometric and operating parameters of the compression system into certain non-dimensional groups. In this paper, a numerical study of the different parameters affecting the surge phenomenon in axial compressors is performed. By unfurling the non-dimensional groups in the Moore-Greitzer model, the significance of the actual geometric and operational variables is identified.
Early surge detection on a turbocharger used to pressurize a SOFC plant emulator
Authors: Niccolini Marmont Du Haut Champ Carlo Alberto , Silvestri Paolo , Reggio Federico , Ferrari Mario Luigi , Massardo Aristide Fausto
Published: August 2023

High-speed centrifugal compressors are commonly exploited to pressurize fuel cell-based hybrid energy systems. In such complex plants, because of significant interposed volumes due to fuel cells, dynamic compressor response can induce severe vibrations caused by low mass flow rates instability. In particular, surge strongly limits centrifugal compressors stable working region when moving towards low mass flow rate due to a change in system operating point. Consequently, a complete system identification is performed in order to adequately characterize compressor dynamic response for early surge detection. To this goal, a tailored experimental activity has been carried out at the Thermochemical Power Group of the University of Genoa on a vaneless diffuser compressor turbocharger used for the pressurization of an innovative solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) emulator plant. Several post-processing methods have been performed on system vibro-acoustic responses to better predict and classify compressor status as stable or unstable. The obtained results provide original diagnostic insights for monitoring systems capable of preventing surge and other low mass flow unstable phenomena, such as rotating stall cells inception. Low mass flow rate fluid-dynamic instabilities prevention can extend compressor operating range, performance, and reliability to allow better integration with other plant components.
Future of the production of green hydrogen in Paraguay
Authors: Riveros-Godoy G. , Buzarquis E. , Rivarolo M. , Lindstrom P.
Published: August 2023

Paraguay is also joining the worldwide movement towards economy decarbonization by considering hydrogen as a viable option. Given Paraguay’s abundant renewable energy resources, boasting approximately 8.7 GW of installed hydroelectric capacity, as well as its cost-effective electricity, the country is attracting significant interest from various companies looking to engage in large-scale production of green hydrogen. However, Paraguay is currently experiencing a significant increase in electricity demand, with a growth rate of approximately 8% per year. By 2033, the country’s power system has the potential to attain a generation reserve margin of 12% if this pattern persists. An additional crucial aspect to consider is that the operator of the national electricity grid (ANDE) is currently developing various scenarios to accommodate the increasing demand for electricity energy. Nevertheless, these scenarios fail to consider the potential impact of widespread hydrogen production on the power grid. This paper aims to close the existing gap by introducing multiple scenarios for electricity demand that incorporate hydrogen production facilities linked to the National Interconnected System.
Approaches to the automated design of restoration work on dilapidated gravity pipeline networks in the presence of foul-smelling gases in them
Authors: Orlov V.A. , Melnik O.V.
Published: August 2023

The article considers the problems of improving the efficiency of design, construction, and reconstruction of gravity-flow pipeline networks based on computer modeling, as well as automation of estimated calculations, considering the use of modern trenchless technologies. The authors present the solution to a problem of a choice of the optimum variant of repair from among alternatives at the reconstruction of a dilapidated pipeline from chrysotile cement of the corresponding diameter and extent in which underlying space there is a foul-smelling and aggressive gas (hydrogen sulfide) in the quantity considerably exceeding its maximum permissible concentration in the atmosphere of cities. Computer modeling considered maximum permissible concentrations of harmful gas emissions and values according to data from organizations operating the network. The results of the work of the automated complex are temporal characteristics of removal of gas components at the organization of artificial air exchange in the under-flowing space of the gravity pipeline at the expense of the selection of productivity of ventilation units. We estimated the cost parameters of preparatory, basic, and finishing construction-technological operations in the complex of works on estimating repair-construction works. For example, mechanical cleaning of the inner surface of the drainage pipeline, organization of dewatering in case of groundwater level above the pipeline, and television inspection of the pipeline after the restoration operation by alternative trenchless methods.
The use of a hydraulic electronic model to assess the functioning of the water supply network
Authors: Gromov Grigorii , Primin Oleg
Published: August 2023

Reliability and safety of centralized water supply are fundamental requirements for these systems — the most important component of public health and one of the key priorities of the state’s social policy. The development of water management and engineering infrastructure in Russian cities should be carried out under the draft schemes of water supply and sanitation. The water supply network is one of the most expensive and vulnerable elements of the city’s water supply system. A significant amount of statistical and operational information, the complex configuration and structure of urban water supply systems, and the uncertainty of water demand required the use of information technologies to survey the functioning of the city’s water supply network. The article presents their implementation based on the use of a hydraulic electronic model of a water supply network.
Technological challenges in the economy of the oil and gas sector
Authors: Evseeva Oksana , Shymchenko Andrey , Miller Alexander , Davidenko Lyudmila
Published: August 2023

Technological challenges related to the “green” economy, digitalization of business processes, and intelligent manufacturing affect all sectors of the global economy. The oil and gas complex has a complexly organized production process, while the oil industry depends on the volatility of coal prices and the general decline of the world economy. In this regard, it is important to analyze the current state and propose environmental, technological, financial and economic measures to minimize the impact of scientific, technological, and financial risks on the companies’ technological integration. Oil and gas companies of the Russian Federation and the Republic of Kazakhstan were selected as the object of the study. In order to overcome the technological lag, increase the depth of processing of raw materials at enterprises, a search for new mechanisms was initiated through the development of the institute of stakeholder relations and the improvement of the scientific and technological risk management system. The study revealed that the combination of the advantages of internal and external growth contributes to the increase of the innovative potential of oil and gas companies. It is an important incentive when concluding transactions to combine the capital of related industries, support the education system, cultural traditions of the population in the regions of the presence of oil, gas, oil refining and petrochemical companies. An open system of “corporate integration spaces”, the innovativeness of the integration strategy, the knowledge economy, and the intellectualization of production were used as the elements of the concept of technological challenges mitigation. There is emphasized high importance of artificial intelligence in the management system of the oil industry economy.
Research on the creation of a joint filler on the basis of a trailed tractor
Authors: Maksudov Zakir , Kudaybergenov Mavlyan
Published: August 2023

This article is dedicated to the development of a joint filler for cracks in asphalt concrete pavement, as well as for expansion joints in cement concrete pavement. The article presents the choice of unified units and units of the joint filler unit being developed for cracks in asphalt concrete pavement and for expansion joints in cement concrete pavement. Some methods for calculating the main parameters of the created joint filler are presented. In addition, a suitable prototype of a joint filler, cracks in the asphalt concrete pavement and expansion joints in the cement concrete pavement were selected from several types.
Development of model for forecasting and controlling the debt burden in a commercial organization
Authors: Mukhanova Natalya , Martynets Ekaterina , Baboyan Khachatur , Bondarenko Viktoria
Published: August 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant negative impact on the state of commercial organizations in the real sector. Therefore, the development of new solutions in forecasting and monitoring the functioning of organizations and their implementation in practice are vital to overcome the crisis. The main purpose of this article is to specify the marginal ranges of indicators of the debt burden of a particular commercial organization characterizing the correlation between the components of capital structure and indicators characterizing the level of security of liabilities with the assets of the organization on the basis of the results of prediction of the developed training model of the behavioral theory of capital by the method of matrices. One of the main advantages of the proposed approach is the determination of marginal ranges in line with the predicted preferred variants of liabilities for the sets of indicators assessing the debt burden. Within the scope of this article, this method has been carried out for an Armenian brandy company “Proshyan Brandy Factory” LLC. Using this model will, in the future, enable to determine common marginal ranges of indicators underlying the development of financial policy for a particular commercial organization in terms of the components of solvency, liquidity, business activity, profitability and creditworthiness.
Fuzzy model for assessing acquired competencies
Authors: Sheveleva Olga , Dobrynin Vladimir , Mastroianni Michele , Goncharova Yana
Published: August 2023

The recent pandemic and economic crises demonstrated that traditional educational approaches cannot face the today’s world challenges. A creative student-centered approach competency-based approach is becoming the leading educational trend around the world. In this regard, it is necessary to improve digital tools used at university to solve a wide range of new educational tasks. In this paper, a model that allows generating automatically the final testing of competencies is designed, along with the model of results evaluation with help of fuzzy logic. The presented model helps to assess the level of competencies through its components (understanding, having skill, ability), makes the assessment more flexible and adaptive and reduces teacher stress.
Characteristics of oil-contaminated gray-brown soils of the Absheron Peninsula
Authors: Guliyev Alovsat , Babayeva Tunzala , Abdullayeva Maya
Published: August 2023

Soil is an invaluable resource of the Earth. One of the factors that formed the foundations of human civilization was the land system. In modern times, the rapid growth of the population, the expansion of residential areas, the intensive development of mining, energy, transport and other fields have caused an increase in negative effects on the environment, including the properties of the soil. As a result, the reduction of biopotential occurred due to the decrease in area of soils and deterioration of their fertility indicators, especially physical, chemical, and biological composition. The provision of land suitable for agriculture in our republic is weak. This situation once again emphasizes the importance of efficient use of every inch of soil cover. It has been studied that as a result of soil contamination with oil products, the physical properties, natural morphological structure, productivity and ecological function of the soil are violated. The granulometric composition of oil-contaminated gray-brown soils of the Absheron Peninsula and the quantitative index of microorganisms were studied. It was determined that the soils are slightly clayey in the granulometric composition in the deep layers, sandy and upper layers. The amount of physical clay in the top layer to a depth of 0-100 cm (<0.01) is between 21.58-28.02%, at a depth of 100-200 cm this figure is between 11.71-19.76%. The amount of microorganisms in 1 ml of pure clay soil is about 4 · 106. In clayey soils, the number of microorganisms in low pollution (0.7%) is 3.4 · 106, in 5% pollution it is 1.9 · 106, and in high pollution (9.0%) it is 0.6 · 106.
Artificial intelligence for ambient air quality control
Authors: Kulikova Elena , Sulimin Vladimir , Shvedov Vladislav
Published: August 2023

Air quality, integral to public health and environmental stability, necessitates innovative solutions for effective monitoring and control. Existing methodologies are often limited in their predictive accuracy, scalability, and cost-effectiveness. This paper explores the potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in transforming ambient air quality control. We conduct an in-depth review of current AI applications, examining various models’ strengths and weaknesses in predicting and controlling air quality. These include machine learning, deep learning, and other AI methodologies. Real-world case studies are analyzed to assess the practicality and effectiveness of AI applications. While AI presents promising capabilities, its implementation is not without challenges such as data requirements, interpretability, and scalability. We discuss these issues, propose possible solutions, and explore future prospects for AI in air quality control. The aim is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the role AI can play in environmental management and a pathway towards its enhanced application. This paper invites further research in harnessing AI’s potential to create sustainable and effective air quality control systems.
Smoking Status and Outcomes following Lung Resection
Authors: Ahmed-Issap Amber , Mantio Kim , Jain Shubham , Habib Akolade , Brazier Andrew , Raseta Marko , Abah Udo
Published: August 2023

Background Surgical resection is the gold standard treatment for the management of early-stage lung cancer. Several modifiable factors may significantly influence postoperative morbidity and mortality. We examined the outcomes of patients following lung resection based upon preoperative smoking status to quantify the impact on postoperative outcomes.

Methods Data from consecutive lung resections from January 1, 2012 to June 11, 2021 were included. Biopsies for interstitial lung disease and resections for emphysematous lung or bullae were excluded. Patients were divided into three cohorts: current smokers (those who smoked within 4 weeks of surgery), ex-smokers (those who stopped smoking prior to 4 weeks leading up to surgery), and nonsmokers (those who have never smoked). Patient's preoperative variables, postoperative complications, length of stay, and mortality were examined.

Results A total of 2,426 patients were included in the study. A total of 502 patients (20.7%) were current smokers, 1,445 (59.6%) were ex-smokers and 479 patients (19.7%) nonsmokers. Of those smoking immediately prior to surgery 36.9% developed postoperative complications. Lower respiratory tract infections (18.1%) and prolonged air leak (17.1%), in particular, were significant higher in smokers. 90-day mortality (5.8%) was higher in the current smokers when compared with ex- and nonsmokers (5.3 and 1%, respectively). Median length of hospital stay, readmissions, and cost of hospital stay was also higher in the current smoker cohort.

Conclusion Smoking immediately prior to surgery is associated with an increase in morbidity, mortality, and length of stay. Not only does this have a significant individual impact, but it is also associated with a significant financial burden to the National Health Service.
Construction of Vicinal Stereocenters via Asymmetric Cyanosilylation
Authors: Huang Zhongxing
Published: August 2023

Asymmetric cyanosilylation serves as an important tool to convert easily available ketones into cyanohydrins of diverse reactivity. Whereas a large library of organocatalysts and transition-metal catalysts have been identified for monoketones, cyanosilylation of more-complex substrates, particularly those giving enantioenriched vicinal stereocenters, is underexplored in comparison. Here, a pair of recently published kinetic resolution and desymmetrization methods are highlighted for their success in constructing complex vicinal stereocenters by cyanosilylation using tailored aluminum and magnesium catalysts, respectively.

1 Introduction

2 Kinetic Resolution of α-Branched Ketones

3 Desymmetrization of 1,3-Diketones

4 Conclusion
Role of the Gastrocnemius Musculocutaneous with a Propeller Style Skin Flap in Knee Region Reconstruction: Indications and Pitfalls
Authors: Sapino Gianluca , Osinga Rik , Maruccia Michele , Guiotto Martino , Clauss Martin , Borens Olivier , Guillier David , di Summa Pietro Giovanni
Published: August 2023

Background Soft tissue reconstruction around the knee area is still an open question, particularly in persistent infections and multiple reoperations scenario. Flap coverage should guarantee joint mobility and protection, even when foreign materials are implanted. The chimeric harvesting of the musculocutaneous gastrocnemius flap, based on the sural artery perforators, can extend its applicability in soft tissue reconstruction of the upper leg, overcoming the drawbacks of the alternative pedicled flaps.

Methods A multicenter retrospective study was conducted enrolling patients who underwent to a pedicled, chimeric gastrocnemius musculocutaneous–medial sural artery perforator (GM-MSAP) or lateral sural artery perforator (GM-LSAP) flap for knee coverage in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) recurrent infections and oncological or traumatic defects of the upper leg from 2018 to 2021. Outcomes evaluated were the successful soft tissue reconstruction and flap complications. Surgical timing, reconstruction planning, technique, and rehabilitation protocols were discussed.

Results Twenty-one patients were included in the study. Nineteen GM-MSAPs and 2 GM-LSAPs were performed (soft tissue reconstruction in infected TKA [12], in infected hardware [4], and in oncological patients [5]). Donor site was closed primarily in 9 cases, whereas a skin graft was required in 12. Flap wound dehiscence (1), distal flap necrosis (1), distal necrosis of the skin paddle (1), and donor site infection (1) were the encountered complications. Flap reraise associated to implant exchange or extensive debridement was successful without requiring any further flap surgery.

Conclusion The propeller–perforator GM-MSAP offers qualitative defect coverage and easiness of multiple flap reraise due to skin availability and its laxity.
Prognostic Factors and Resectability Predictors in Insular Gliomas: A Systematic Review
Authors: Papadopoulou Ariadni , Kumar Niraj S.
Published: August 2023

Background Insular gliomas (INGs) remain a surgically intimidating glioma subgroup encased by eloquent cortical parcels and white matter language tracts, and traversed by multiple middle cerebral artery branches. The predictive power of prognostic factors affecting overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), and resectability of INGs remain disputed. This comprehensive systematic review analyses prognostic factors and resectability predictors of INGs substantiating pragmatic management options.

Materials and Methods A systematic review was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Protocols (PRISMA-P) and the Cochrane Handbook of Systematic Reviews of Interventions guidelines. The PubMed, MEDLINE, and Embase databases were searched in April 2022. All clinical studies with ≥10 patients harboring INGs with any intervention and reporting predictors of OS, PFS, and tumor resectability in INGs were included. Molecular ING prognosticators were also included. Studies combining insular and other gliomas analysis, case studies, experimental and animal studies, conference abstracts, letters to the editor, and articles in other languages were excluded.

Results Of the 2,384 articles returned, 27 fulfilled the inclusion criteria totaling 1,985 patients. The review yielded 18 OS and 17 PFS prognosticators. These were classified as preoperative (radiologic; clinical), intraoperative, and postoperative (molecular; histopathologic; clinical) prognosticators. In addition, 21 resectability predictors were categorized as preoperative (radiologic; clinical), intraoperative (surgical approach and assistive technology), and postoperative (histopathologic; clinical). The quality assessment revealed 24/27 studies had low risk of bias. One study with moderate and two studies with high risk of bias were included.

Conclusion Negative prognosticators reported in ≥2 studies included putaminal or paralimbic involvement and higher tumor grade, while seizures at presentation, isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) mutation, increased extent of resection, and higher Karnofsky Performance Status preoperatively and at 3 months postoperation were positive prognosticators. Resectability predictors reported in ≥2 studies included the positive predictors of zone I/zone IV tumor location and intraoperative imaging use and the negative predictor of encased lenticulostriate arteries. Paralimbic INGs are not a single entity with homogeneous prognosis. Integration of identified prognosticators in a prospective trial to devise a grading system for INGs can improve clinical decision-making.
Prophage and Plasmid-Mediated Beta-Lactamases in Multidrug-Resistant Extraintestinal Escherichia coli
Authors: Raj Juliet Roshini Mohan , Dinesh Akshatha , Vittal Rajeshwari , Rohit Anusha
Published: August 2023

Objectives Antibiotic resistance can arise as a mutation to adapt to stress or be mediated by horizontal gene transfer. This study aimed at identifying the resistance determinants present in the mobile genetic elements of prophages and plasmids within multidrug-resistant (MDR) extraintestinal Escherichia coli.

Materials and Methods Thirty-five anonymized MDR E. coli isolates of nonintestinal infections were confirmed for their antimicrobial resistance to six categories of antimicrobials by the disk diffusion test. Genes coding for beta-lactamases and carbapenemases in bacterial genome, plasmid, and prophage fractions were separately determined by polymerase chain reaction. Transducing ability of prophages carrying resistance genes was determined.

Results Twenty-six isolates were positive for the gene bla
CTX-M, nine for bla
TEM, one each for bla
KPC and bla
VIM, thirteen for bla
NDM, and seven for bla
OXA. A majority of these isolates carried these determinants in plasmids and prophage fractions. Twenty-one percent of the prophage fractions (4 of 19) were able to successfully transfer resistance to sensitive isolates.

Conclusion This study indicates bla
CTX-M, bla
TEM, and bla
NDM genes that are reported most frequently in MDR isolates are more frequent in the plasmid and prophage fractions thus supporting for increased mobility.
Hypereosinophilia Syndrome: Myriad Presentation—A Case Report
Authors: Patel Mansi , Shah Divit , Patel Sujal , Acharya Sourya , Kumar Sunil , Shukla Samarth
Published: August 2023

Hypereosinophilic syndrome is a myeloproliferative disorder that is distinguished with the presence of eosinophilia, which is an absolute eosinophil level of more than 1500/µL for no less than 6 months, no recognized cause for eosinophilia, and clear organ involvement characteristics. But, in some cases where patients require therapy to decrease eosinophil counts due to severe symptoms, a lower time period of hypereosinophilic is also admissible. In this case series, we have included three cases in which first case presented with the features of diarrhea, nausea, and decreased appetite who underwent colonoscopy and was diagnosed as a case of eosinophilic colitis. The second patient was a female came with abdominal pain and burning micturition, who was having eosinophilia on blood count examination and was diagnosed as a case of eosinophilic cystitis. Third case was young female who was diagnosed as eosinophilic endocarditis on two-dimensional echocardiography having dyspnea and rash and high eosinophil count on blood smear. All the three patients were started on steroids, who recovered well with medication and were discharged for follow-up after 7 days with complete blood count.
Supply chain challenges and recommendations for international development agriculture projects: an application of the FGD-fuzzy Delphi approach
Authors: Khan Md. Raquibuzzaman , Alam Mohammad Jahangir , Tabassum Nazia , Khan Niaz Ahmed , McKenzie Andrew M.
Published: August 2023

International development (ID) agriculture projects play a crucial role in ensuring the long-term viability of agriculture-based economies in developing countries. While, unlike other development projects, these projects face unique supply chain challenges that agriculture development projects focus primarily on increasing crop production to ensure food security in a country, which is affected not only by social or national context issues but also by natural environments. Since no previous research has investigated the supply chain issues of ID agriculture projects, this study makes a significant contribution to the literature by identifying the key supply chain challenges of ID agriculture projects in a developing country context and proposing specific solutions to these challenges. Initially, the study conducted a literature review to generate a primary list of project supply chain challenges. To identify more significant and relevant challenges, the study conducted focus group discussions and consulted with an expert panel; it identified seventeen critical challenges and provided specific recommendations to address each challenge. The recommendations were then ranked using the fuzzy Delphi method based on their importance. Certain critical challenges, such as political influence, are exacerbated by the unique project and context environments. While others are the result of donors’ incompatible strategies and influences (e.g., donor-incompatible regulations). Some of them are created by both the host nation and the donors (delayed project launch, for example). Moreover, the projects face specific challenges posed by natural environments (such as natural disasters). To ensure value for money within the project’s scope, it is recommended that the professionals adopt the most important strategies to address the challenges. Not only are the findings impressive for industry professionals, but also policymakers, development partners, academics, and future researchers.
Mechanical data corrections for triaxial compression testing at high pressures and high temperatures with a Paterson gas-medium mechanical testing apparatus
Authors: Li J. F. , Song M. S. , Shao T. B. , Zheng X. D. , Jiang Z. X.
Published: August 2023

Although restricted by a limited range of strain, the triaxial compression test is a mature and common technique for investigating the rheological properties of rock materials at high pressures and high temperatures, especially when establishing the constitutive equations for various flow laws. The Paterson gas-medium high-pressure and high-temperature mechanical testing apparatus (Paterson apparatus) is the best apparatus for triaxial compression testing due to its high stress resolution. However, to derive accurate mechanical information from the raw data recorded by the Paterson apparatus, some technical issues should be addressed, including the simultaneous distortion of the apparatus, the load force supported by the jacketing tube, and the change in the cross-sectional area of the specimen. In this paper, we introduce correction methods corresponding to these three technical issues for triaxial compression on a Paterson apparatus equipped with an internal load cell to significantly reduce experimental errors so that high-precision mechanical data for establishing the constitutive equations of flow laws, such as differential stress, strain, and strain rate, can be obtained. To facilitate corrections for the distortion of the apparatus and the load force supported by the jacketing tube, we determine the distortion of the Paterson apparatus as a function of axial load force by deforming tungsten steel specimens with a known Young’s modulus and the high-temperature flow laws of two common jacketing materials, iron and copper, by triaxial compression experiments at confining pressures of 200–300 MPa. Previous flow laws of iron and copper established by Frost and Ashby (1982) using ambient mechanical data are carefully compared with the flow laws obtained in this study to evaluate their effectiveness for correcting jacket tube strength. Finally, the errors eliminated by each correction step are analyzed and discussed to better understand the necessity of mechanical data corrections.
A novel data gaps filling method for solar PV output forecasting
Authors: Benitez Ian B. , Ibañez Jessa A. , Lumabad Cenon D. , Cañete Jayson M. , De los Reyes Francisco N. , Principe Jeark A.
Published: August 2023

This study proposes a modified gaps filling method, expanding the column mean imputation method and evaluated using randomly generated missing values comprising 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20% of the original data on power output. The XGBoost algorithm was implemented as a forecasting model using the original and processed datasets and two sources of solar radiation data, namely, Shortwave Radiation (SWR) from Advanced Himawari Imager 8 (AHI-8) and Surface Solar Radiation Downward (SSRD) from ERA5 global reanalysis data. The accuracy of the two sets of forecasted power output was evaluated using Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) and Mean Absolute Error (MAE). Results show that by applying the proposed gap filling method and using SWR in forecasting solar photovoltaic (PV) output, the improvement in the RMSE and MAE values range from 12.52% to 24.30% and from 21.10% to 31.31%, respectively. Meanwhile, using SSRD, the improvement in the RMSE values range from 14.01% to 28.54% and MAE values from 22.39% to 35.53%. To further evaluate the accuracy of the proposed gap-filling method, the proposed method could be validated using different datasets and other forecasting methods. Future studies could also consider applying the said method to datasets with data gaps higher than 20%.
Thermal evolution of LiCoO2 structure and Raman spectra below 400 °C
Authors: Ryabin Alexander A. , Krylov Alexander S. , Krylova Svetlana N. , Kiselev Evgeny A. , Pelegov Dmitry V.
Published: August 2023

Lithium cobalt oxide is a convenient model material for the vast family of cathode materials with a layered structure and still retains some commercial perspectives for microbatteries and some other applications. In this work, we have used ab initio calculations, x-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, and a theoretical physical model, based on quasi-harmonic approximation with anharmonic contributions of the three-phonon and four-phonon processes, to study a temperature-induced change of Raman spectra for LiCoO2. The obtained values of shift and broadening for Eg and A1g bands can be used for quantitative characterization of temperature change, for example, due to laser-induced heating during Raman spectra measurements. The theoretical analysis of the experimental results lets us conclude that Raman spectra changes for LiCoO2 can be explained by the combination of thermal expansion of the crystal lattice and phonon damping by anharmonic coupling with comparable contributions of the three-phonon and four-phonon processes. The obtained results can be further used to develop Raman-based quality control tools.
Minimal participant structure of the event and the emergence of the argument/adjunct distinction
Authors: Frajzyngier Zygmunt , Gurian Natalia , Karpenko Sergei
Published: August 2023

The present study answers the following questions: why the semantic roles of agent or patient are often unmarked; why other semantic roles, such as benefactive, stative locative, goal, or source, are unmarked when used with some verbs and marked when used with other verbs; and why semantic relations such as ‘associative’, ‘instrumental’, ‘reason’, ‘purpose’, and others often referred to as ‘adjuncts’ are usually marked. The study, based on Sino-Russian idiolects spoken in the Far East of Russia, proposes that at an early stage in the formation of grammatical systems by adult speakers, if a noun phrase fulfills the role of one of the participants in the minimal participant structure of the event, the semantic role of the noun phrase is not marked. If the noun phrase does not fulfill the role of one of the participants in the minimal participant-structure of the event, the role of the noun phrase must be marked.
Disruptive AVT workflows in the age of streaming
Authors: Massidda Serenella
Published: August 2023

In the last decade, media industries have witnessed a shift in the way audiovisual content is localised, broadcast, and consumed by multifaceted audiences: from traditional linear TV to subscription video-on-demand (SVOD) services. While this major shift has been well-documented by media studies scholars (Lotz 2014;Lobato 2017a,2017b;Storstein Spilker and Colbjørnsen 2020), the overall effect it has had on audiovisual translation (AVT) is relatively under-researched within Translation Studies. Hence, this article aims to delve into the current state of the art of AVT within a mediascape dominated by non-linear over-the-top (OTT) platforms. Drawing on the impact that streaming solutions such as Amazon Prime, Disney+, and Netflix have had on the acceleration of AVT workflows worldwide as a way to localise a high volume of content created to reach global audiences, my analysis focuses on their impact on the way subtitling workflows are managed and turnaround times scheduled. This study focuses on the day-of-broadcast (DOB) model, the media release strategy intended to make audiovisual content available ‘now and everywhere’. The disruptive nature of DOB models in localisation workflows is investigated using a case study, thead hocsubtitling workflow devised for Netflix’sChelsea, and analysed using a qualitative research method. The aim is to unveil the practices behind the scenes of the first global talk show subtitled in twenty languages with a turnaround time of only fourteen hours.
Trained immunity of alveolar macrophages enhances injury resolution via KLF4-MERTK-mediated efferocytosis
Authors: Chakraborty Sreeparna , Singh Abhalaxmi , Wang Li , Wang Xinge , Sanborn Mark A. , Ye Zijing , Maienschein-Cline Mark , Mukhopadhyay Amitabha , Ganesh Balaji B. , Malik Asrar B. , Rehman Jalees
Published: August 2023

Recent studies suggest that training of innate immune cells such as tissue-resident macrophages by repeated noxious stimuli can heighten host defense responses. However, it remains unclear whether trained immunity of tissue-resident macrophages also enhances injury resolution to counterbalance the heightened inflammatory responses. Here, we studied lung-resident alveolar macrophages (AMs) prechallenged with either the bacterial endotoxin or with Pseudomonas aeruginosa and observed that these trained AMs showed greater resilience to pathogen-induced cell death. Transcriptomic analysis and functional assays showed greater capacity of trained AMs for efferocytosis of cellular debris and injury resolution. Single-cell high-dimensional mass cytometry analysis and lineage tracing demonstrated that training induces an expansion of a MERTKhiMarcohiCD163+F4/80low lung-resident AM subset with a proresolving phenotype. Reprogrammed AMs upregulated expression of the efferocytosis receptor MERTK mediated by the transcription factor KLF4. Adoptive transfer of these trained AMs restricted inflammatory lung injury in recipient mice exposed to lethal P. aeruginosa. Thus, our study has identified a subset of tissue-resident trained macrophages that prevent hyperinflammation and restore tissue homeostasis following repeated pathogen challenges.