bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anaerobic Feces Processing for Fecal Microbiota Transplantation Improves Viability of Obligate Anaerobes
Authors: Bénard Mèlanie V. , Arretxe Iñaki , Wortelboer Koen , Harmsen Hermie J. M. , Davids Mark , de Bruijn Clara M. A. , Benninga Marc A. , Hugenholtz Floor , Herrema Hilde , Ponsioen Cyriel Y.
Published: September 2023

Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is under investigation for several indications, including ulcerative colitis (UC). The clinical success of FMT depends partly on the engraftment of viable bacteria. Because the vast majority of human gut microbiota consists of anaerobes, the currently used aerobic processing protocols of donor stool may diminish the bacterial viability of transplanted material. This study assessed the effect of four processing techniques for donor stool (i.e., anaerobic and aerobic, both direct processing and after temporary cool storage) on bacterial viability. By combining anaerobic culturing on customized media for anaerobes with 16S rRNA sequencing, we could successfully culture and identify the majority of the bacteria present in raw fecal suspensions. We show that direct anaerobic processing of donor stool is superior to aerobic processing conditions for preserving the bacterial viability of obligate anaerobes and butyrate-producing bacteria related to the clinical response to FMT in ulcerative colitis patients, including Faecalibacterium, Eubacterium hallii, and Blautia. The effect of oxygen exposure during stool processing decreased when the samples were stored long-term. Our results confirm the importance of sample conditioning to preserve the bacterial viability of oxygen-sensitive gut bacteria. Anaerobic processing of donor stool may lead to increased clinical success of FMT, which should further be investigated in clinical trials.
Development of the Recycling of Alloyed Metallurgical Waste: Features of Phase and Structural Transformations
Authors: Smirnov Aleksey , Petryshchev Artem , Bilko Tamara , Andreev Andrey , Semenko Anastasiia , Skorobagatko Yuliia
Published: September 2023

The features of structural and phase transformations during the processing of alloyed metallurgical wastes using reduction smelting are determined herein. This is necessary in order to determine the technological parameters of the melting process that ensure the reduction in the losses of alloying components. The use of X-ray phase analysis in combination with the methods of raster electron microscopy and X-ray microanalysis ensured the identification of the microstructure features and the chemical composition of individual phases and inclusions in the metal. Our study identified new technological aspects of high-alloyed technogenic waste processing using reduction smelting. The obtained parameters of the resource-saving alloying compound provide the possibility to replace parts of the standard ferroalloys in steelmaking processes.
Development of Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification Method for Rapid and Sensitive Identification of Hermetia illucens (Diptera: Stratiomyidae)
Authors: Zhu Wenchao , Hussain Mubasher , Gao Jing , Mao Runqian , An Xincheng
Published: September 2023

The black soldier fly (BSF) is well known for its ability to biologically convert organic waste into insect biomass, including protein and oil, which can be utilised as animal feed. Since raw BSF products, such as BSF powder, are difficult to differentiate from other biological raw materials, therefore new analytical approaches are required. In this study, we have developed a new and fast method based on loop-mediated isothermal AMPlification (LAMP) reaction that can diagnose black soldier fly larvae and BSF byproducts with high accuracy, specificity and sensitivity. Species-specific primers for BSF were designed based on targeting the mitochondrial cytochrome C oxidase I (COI) gene. The assay was able to detect as low as 820 fg/L of BSF DNA in 60 min at 65 °C, which was a hundredfold higher than the detection limit of classical polymerase chain reaction and did not show cross-reactivity. In conclusion, the LAMP assay demonstrated excellent sensitivity and specificity to detect BSF and BSF byproducts, with a sampling-to-result identification time of 60 min.
Construction of Metal Organic Framework-Derived Fe-N-C Oxidase Nanozyme for Rapid and Sensitive Detection of Alkaline Phosphatase
Authors: Pan Mengmeng , Wang Ming , Yang Linjiao , Song Yongli , Jiang Ming , Yu Xu , Xu Li
Published: September 2023

Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is a phosphomonoester hydrolase and serves as a biomarker in various diseases. However, current detection methods for ALP rely on bulky instruments, extended time, and complex operations, which are particularly challenging in resource-limited regions. Herein, we synthesized a MOF-derived Fe-N-C nanozyme to create biosensors for the coulometric and visual detection of ALP. Specifically, we found the Fe-N-C nanozyme can efficiently oxidize 3,3′,5,5′-tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) to generate blue-colored tetramethyl benzidine (TMBox) without the need for H2O2. To construct the biosensor, we incorporated the ALP enzymatic catalytic reaction to inhibit the oxidation of TMB by Fe-N-C oxidase nanozyme. This biosensor showed rapid and highly sensitive detection of ALP in both buffer and clinical samples. The limit of detection (LOD) of our approach could be achieved at 3.38 U L−1, and the linear range was from 5 to 60 U L−1. Moreover, we also developed a visual detection for ALP by using a smartphone-based assay and facilitated practical and accessible point-and-care testing (POCT) in resource-limited areas. The visual detection method also achieved a similar LOD of 2.12 U L−1 and a linear range of 5–60 U L−1. Our approach presents potential applications for other biomarker detections by using ALP-based ELISA methods.
Development of Microwave Filters with Tunable Frequency and Flexibility Using Carbon Nanotube Paper
Authors: Liu Jih-Hsin , Huang Yao-Sheng
Published: September 2023

This study aims to exploit the distinctive properties of carbon nanotube materials, which are particularly pronounced at the microscopic scale, by deploying fabrication techniques that allow their features to be observed macroscopically. Specifically, we aim to create a semiconductor device that exhibits flexibility and the ability to modulate its electromagnetic wave absorption frequency by means of biasing. Initially, we fabricate a sheet of carbon nanotubes through a vacuum filtration process. Subsequently, phosphorus and boron elements are separately doped into the nanotube sheet, enabling it to embody the characteristics of a PN diode. Measurements indicate that, in addition to the fundamental diode’s current–voltage relationship, the device also demonstrates intriguing transmission properties under the TEM mode of electromagnetic waves. It exhibits a frequency shift of approximately 2.3125 GHz for each volt of bias change. The final result is a lightweight and flexible carbon-based semiconductor microwave filter, which can conform to curved surfaces. This feat underscores the potential of such materials for innovative and effective electromagnetic wave manipulation.
Real-Time Caries Detection of Bitewing Radiographs Using a Mobile Phone and an Artificial Neural Network: A Pilot Study
Authors: Pun Ming Hong Jim
Published: September 2023

This pilot study aimed to implement and assess the performance of an experimental artificial intelligence (AI) mobile phone app in the real-time detection of caries lesions on bitewing radiographs (BWRs) with the use of a back-facing mobile phone video camera. The author trained an EfficientDet-Lite1 artificial neural network using 190 radiographic images from the Internet. The trained model was deployed on a Google Pixel 6 mobile phone and used to detect caries on ten additional Internet BWRs. The sensitivity/precision/F1 scores ranged from 0.675/0.692/0.684 to 0.575/0.719/0.639 for the aggregate handheld detection of caries in static BWRs versus the stationary scanning of caries in a moving video of BWRs, respectively. Averaging the aggregate results, the AI app detected—in real time—62.5% of caries lesions on ten BWRs with a precision of 70.6% using the back-facing mobile phone video camera. When combined with the AI app’s relative ease of use and speed and the potential for global accessibility, this proof-of-concept study could quite literally place AI’s vast potential for improving patient care in dentists’ hands.
Mycoplasmosis in Poultry: An Evaluation of Diagnostic Schemes and Molecular Analysis of Egyptian Mycoplasma gallisepticum Strains
Authors: Al-baqir Ahmed , Hassanin Ola , Al-Rasheed Mohammed , Ahmed Mohamed S. , Mohamed Mahmoud H. A. , El Sayed Mohamed Shawky , Megahed Mohamed , El-Demerdash Azza , Hashem Youserya , Eid Amal
Published: September 2023

Infections with Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG) in poultry are associated with a wide range of disease conditions, including those affecting the respiratory and reproductive systems. The purpose of this study was to endorse the more sensitive diagnostic scheme for MG infection and identify the best molecular marker for MG phylogenetic analysis using six housekeeping genes: mgc2, mraW, atpG, ugpA, DUF31196, and lgT. For these purposes, 55 poultry flocks of different species were screened using either qRT-PCR or PCR techniques analogous to conventional culturing from non-cultured and cultured swabs on PPLO broth. The rate of MG positivity was the highest when using qRT-PCR from cultured broth (89.0%) and the lowest when using conventional culturing (34.5%). Compared to qRT-PCR from broth, statistical analysis using the Roc curve in MedCalc statistical software showed that the PCR schemes (qRT-PCR from swabs and PCR from swabs and broth) performed better than conventional culturing in terms of sensitivity, accuracy, and area under the curve (AUC), suggesting that they may be more reliable schemes. Further support was added by Cohen’s kappa test, showing moderate agreement between the molecular approaches. Among the six screened genes, mgc2 and mraW had the highest detection rates (69% and 65.4%, respectively). The comparative phylogenetic analysis revealed that mgc2 or atpG gene sequences distinguished MG isolates into different clades with high discriminatory power.
Prolongation of Acid-Fast Bacilli Sputum Smear Positivity in Patients with Multidrug-Resistant Pulmonary Tuberculosis
Authors: Mvo Sidwell , Bokop Carine , Longo-Mbenza Benjamin , Vasaikar Sandeep D. , Apalata Teke
Published: September 2023

The study sought to determine factors associated with prolonged smear positivity in multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) patients following appropriate management. Newly diagnosed patients were enrolled between June 2017 and May 2018. Sputum samples were collected for Xpert® MTB/RIF and line probe assays (LiPAs). Microscopic tests were performed at baseline and 4, 8, and 12 weeks post-anti-TB therapy. Of the 200 patients, 114 (57%) were HIV-positive. After 12 weeks of treatment, there was a significant microscopy conversion rate among DS-TB patients compared to MDR-TB patients irrespective of their HIV status (p = 0.0013). All MDR-TB patients who had a baseline smear grade ranging from scanty to +1 converted negative, while 25% ranging from +2 to +3 remained positive until the end of 12 weeks (p = 0.014). Factors associated with smear positivity included age <35 years (p = 0.021), initial CD4+ T-cell count ≥200 cells/mm3 (p = 0.010), and baseline smear grade ≥2+ (p = 0.014). Cox regression showed that only the baseline smear grade ≥2+ was independently associated with prolonged smear positivity in MDR-TB patients (p = 0.011) after adjusting for HIV status, CD4+ T-cell count, and age. Baseline sputum smear grade ≥2+ is a key determinant for prolonged smear positivity beyond 12 weeks of effective anti-TB therapy in MDR-TB patients.
Prioritization of Physio-Biochemical Selection Indices and Yield-Attributing Traits toward the Acquisition of Drought Tolerance in Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)
Authors: Tiwari Prakash N. , Tiwari Sharad , Sapre Swapnil , Tripathi Niraj , Payasi Devendra K. , Singh Mrinalini , Thakur Satyendra , Sharma Mohini , Tiwari Sushma , Tripathi Manoj Kumar
Published: September 2023

Chickpea is widely grown in rainfed areas of developing countries because of its nutritional abundance and adaptability. To overcome the environmental effect of drought on yield, a characteristic-linked selection strategy is proved as well-thought-out and advantageous for the development of drought-tolerant cultivars. To precisely understand the contribution of various physio-biochemical and yield-attributing traits toward drought tolerance in chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.), forty chickpea genotypes were evaluated in the years 2020–2021 and 2021–2022 under normal irrigated as well as drought-stressed conditions. Among the studied genotypes, genotype ICC4958 retained the highest chl content (0.55 mg g−1 FW), minimal electrolyte leakage, and superoxide dismutase (1.48 U/mg FW) and peroxidase (2.21 µmol/min/g FW) activities while cultivar JG11 maintained the maximum relative water content and proline accumulation. The principal-component-based biplots prioritized the physio-biochemical and yield-accrediting characteristics based on their association significance and contribution to terminal drought tolerance. Under drought stress, grain yield per plant was depicted to have a strongly positive association with canopy temperature depression, catalase, superoxide dismutase, and peroxidase activities as well as total soluble sugar, proline, and chlorophyll content, along with the numbers of pods and biological yield per plant. These identified physio-biochemical and yield-attributing traits can be further deployed to select drought-tolerant chickpea genotypes for the breeding of climate-smart chickpea genotypes.
New Insights on Primary and Secondary Metabolite Contents of Seven Italian Wild Food Plants with Medicinal Applications: A Comparative Study
Authors: Monari Stefania , Ferri Maura , Salinitro Mirko , Tassoni Annalisa
Published: September 2023

Wild food plants are widely consumed all over the world and many have both nutritional and therapeutic value due to the presence of biologically active compounds. The present research, for the first time, aims to compare primary and secondary metabolite levels among different plant organs (flower, leaf, stem, root, bark) of seven species (Borago officinalis L., Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers., Foeniculum vulgare Mill., Hypericum perforatum L., Malva sylvestris L., Sambucus nigra L., Urtica dioica L.) collected in three different Italian regions (Liguria, Tuscany, Apulia). Plant organ samples were extracted with water or 95% (v/v) methanol and liquid fractions were analyzed using spectrophotometric assays. The best results were obtained for Hypericum perforatum L. samples, followed by Sambucus nigra L. and Borago officinalis L. As also confirmed via PCA analysis on normalized data, flower and leaf extracts of all species exhibited higher levels of polyphenols (up to 105.7 mg GA eq/gDW), reducing sugars (up to 389.2 mg GLUC eq/gDW), proteins (up to 675.7 mg BSA eq/gDW) and of antioxidant capacity (up to 263.5 mg AA eq/gDW). No differences among the regions of gathering were detected after spectrophotometric assays, which was confirmed via PCA analysis. These data contribute to further validate the traditionally reported healing effects of these species on human health.
Modeling Phenological Phases across Olive Cultivars in the Mediterranean
Authors: Didevarasl Ali , Costa Saura Jose M. , Spano Donatella , Deiana Pierfrancesco , Snyder Richard L. , Mulas Maurizio , Nieddu Giovanni , Zelasco Samanta , Santona Mario , Trabucco Antonio
Published: September 2023

Modeling phenological phases in a Mediterranean environment often implies tangible challenges to reconstructing regional trends over heterogenous areas using limited and scattered observations. The present investigation aimed to project phenological phases (i.e., sprouting, blooming, and pit hardening) for early and mid–late olive cultivars in the Mediterranean, comparing two phenological modeling approaches. Phenoflex is a rather integrated but data-demanding model, while a combined model of chill and anti-chill days and growing degree days (CAC_GDD) offers a more parsimonious and general approach in terms of data requirements for parameterization. We gathered phenological observations from nine experimental sites in Italy and temperature timeseries from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts, Reanalysis v5. The best performances of the CAC_GDD (RMSE: 4 days) and PhenoFlex models (RMSE: 5–9.5 days) were identified for the blooming and sprouting phases of mid–late cultivars, respectively. The CAC_GDD model was better suited to our experimental conditions for projecting pit hardening and blooming dates (correlation: 0.80 and 0.70, normalized RMSE: 0.6 and 0.8, normalized standard deviation: 0.9 and 1.0). The optimization of the principal parameters confirmed that the mid–late cultivars were more adaptable to thermal variability. The spatial distribution illustrated the near synchrony of blooming dates between the early and mid–late cultivars compared to other phases.
The Burden of Air Pollution: A Perspective on Global Health Inequalities
Authors: Jakubowska Agnieszka
Published: September 2023

The aim of the research presented here is to assess the magnitude of the burden of health limitations due to air pollution on the world’s economies. This burden was determined by the estimated number of premature years of life lost (YLLs) or years of health lost (YLDs) due to air-pollution-related diseases in the working-age population. Attention was drawn to the problem of existing inequalities in the global burden between economies with different income levels. The hypothesis of persistently high levels of inequality was tested by analysing the convergence process in a group of 204 countries over the period 1990–2019. The results indicate a high degree of variation in the level of health problems caused by air pollution. The analysis of the catching-up process of the most disadvantaged countries (with the highest level of health impacts from air pollution) did not show a positive convergence effect in the study group.
Characteristics and Stabilization Mechanism of Three-Phase Foam: Improving Heavy Oil Recovery via Steam Stimulation through Two-Dimensional Visual Model
Authors: Wu Mingxuan , Lun Zengmin , Tang Yongqiang , Dai Jinming , Liu Mingkai , Wang Deqiang , Li Zhaomin
Published: September 2023

There is a problem of a rapid decline in production caused by the repeated heating of the near-wellbore zone during steam stimulation. Finding a suitable foam system to expand the area of the steam chamber and slow down the rapid production of hot water during the recovery process can effectively improve the effect of steam stimulation. In this paper, CGS foam was prepared with high-temperature-resistant surfactant GD, graphite particles, and clay particles. Through the study of foam properties, it was found that with the addition of particles, the strength of the foam’s liquid film, half-life time, and temperature resistance was greatly improved. The appropriate permeability of the CGS foam and the movement characteristics of it in formations with different permeabilities were studied through a plugging experiment with a sand pack. The plugging performances of the GD foam, CGS foam, and pure particles in a simulated reservoir were compared. The development of the steam cavity during the steam stimulation process and the influence of injecting GD foam and CGS foam on the flow in the simulated reservoir were studied through a two-dimensional visualization model. The temperature resistance and stability of the CGS foam were better than those of GD foam in the simulated formation.
Design of Continuous Kneading System for Active Anode Material Fabrication Using Retrofitted Assembly of Co-Rotating Screw Extruder
Authors: Lee Gang-Ho , Yi Hyenoseok , Cho Hye-Ryeong , Kim Yu-Jin , Park Sei-Min , Yoon Seong-Jin , Seo Dong-Jin , Oh Kyeongseok , Yeon Jeong-Mi , Choi Sun-Yong , Yoon Seong-Ho , Park Joo-Il
Published: September 2023

As the demand for artificial graphite for lithium-ion battery (LIB) anode materials is on the rise, technologies for optimizing the manufacturing processes and reducing the production costs of artificial graphite are crucial. At the same time, globally, regulations on the generation of harmful volatile substances during the artificial graphite production process are also becoming increasingly stringent. In this study, we focused on a continuous kneading process that minimizes the emission of volatile substances during the manufacturing of artificial graphite. To this end, a carbonized material was first prepared from a mixture of needle coke and binder pitch and processed at 3200 °C using two types of co-rotating twin-screw extruder-based continuous kneading equipment to ultimately obtain artificial graphite. The physical properties of the carbonized as well as graphitized materials were analyzed, which revealed the superior performance of the LIB anode material, namely a discharge capacity of greater than or equal to 350 mAh/g, and an initial efficiency of 91% or higher. Thus, a continuous kneading manufacturing process that emits less harmful volatile substances and provides artificial graphite with sufficient battery performance was demonstrated.
Diatom Assemblages from the Daginsky Mud Volcano Sediments (Eastern Sakhalin) and Their Implication
Authors: Tsoy Ira B. , Sorochinskaya Anna V.
Published: September 2023

Diatom assemblages in mud volcanoes are quite rare and are poorly studied. The finding of a rich diatom flora in the sediments of the Daginsky Mud Volcano (DMV), located in the tidal zone of the Nyisky Bay of the Sea of Okhotsk, is of interest to study the conditions for the formation of host sediments in the zone of influence of various extreme factors, such as outflows of gases and water–mud mass, thermal springs, and tides. For this purpose, the taxonomical composition of diatom assemblages and concentration of diatoms in DMV sediments were studied. A comparison was made with the diatoms of geothermal springs of the Russian Far East associated with volcanic activity, and the stratigraphic occurrence of the found extinct diatoms was analyzed, which is important for determining their source and the age of the mud volcano roots. Diatom assemblages from DMV sediments are mainly characterized by the predominance of Metascolioneis tumida, Paralia sulcata, Odontella aurita, Pinnunavis yarrensis, Petroneis marina, Cocconeis scutellum, and Navicula digitoradiata. They consist of diatoms of different biotopes and extinct species. The diversity and abundance of brackish water and marine species indicates the predominant influence of sea waters on the formation of DMV sediments. The diverse freshwater species were mainly introduced into sediments with river runoff, but it is likely that some of these, such as the cosmopolitan alkaliphilic species, are inhabitants of geothermal springs. The presence of extinct species from the underlying Neogene sediments from where they were carried with gas–water–mud masses is the most typical for diatom assemblages of the DMV.
Catalytic Valorisation of Biomass-Derived Levulinic Acid to Biofuel Additive γ-Valerolactone: Influence of Copper Loading on Silica Support
Authors: Boddula Rajender , Shanmugam Paramasivam , Srivatsava Rajesh K. , Tabassum Nabila , Pothu Ramyakrishna , Naik Ramachandra , Saran Aditya , Viswanadham Balaga , Radwan Ahmed Bahgat , Al-Qahtani Noora
Published: September 2023

γ-valerolactone (GVL) is a crucial chemical feedstock used in the production of fuel additives, renewable fuels, and fine chemicals alternative to petroleum-based solvents and chemicals, supporting the transition to sustainable energy solutions. It is promptly acquired by hydrogenating levulinic acid (LA) in a gaseous or liquid phase with a homogeneous or heterogeneous catalyst using a variety of recognized catalytic processes. Herein, this work focuses on the use of silica-supported copper (Cu/SiO2) catalysts for the gas-phase hydrogenation of LA to GVL under mild reaction conditions. The study analyzes how copper loading can affect the catalytic activity of the Cu/SiO2, while the flow rate of LA, time-on-stream, reaction temperature, and LA concentration affect the catalytic efficiency. The SiO2 support’s various Cu loadings are crucial for adjusting the catalytic hydrogenation activity. One of the studied catalysts, a 5 wt% Cu/SiO2 catalyst, demonstrated ~81% GVL selectivity with ~78% LA conversion and demonstrated stability for ~8 h while operating at atmospheric pressure and temperature (265 °C) and 0.5 mL/h of LA flow rate. The ability to activate hydrogen, high amount of acidic sites, and surface area were all discovered to be advantageous for increased GVL selectivity.
Comparison of a Bottom-Up GNSS Radio Occultation Method to Measure D- and E-Region Electron Densities with Ionosondes and FIRI
Authors: Shaver Dylan J. , Wu Dong L. , Swarnalingam Nimalan , Franz Anthony L. , Dao Eugene V. , Emmons Daniel J.
Published: September 2023

High-frequency skywave propagation can be heavily impacted by D- and E-region dynamics requiring accurate global measurements to optimize performance. A standard measurement technique is to use ionosondes, but they are unable to measure below 1 MHz and are only available at a limited number of land-locked sites around the globe. In contrast, the Global Navigation Satellite System radio occultation (GNSS-RO) bottom-up method is a new approach specifically designed to generate electron density profiles in the D- and E- region ionosphere. It takes advantage of satellite constellations that currently provide over 20,000 daily measurements and global coverage. In this paper, GNSS-RO profiles were compared against ionosonde profiles at four sites covering a wide latitudinal range, and FIRI modeled profiles corresponding to the same latitude and local solar time. This comparison was completed using daytime profiles when sporadic-E (Es) was not present. The average GNSS-RO profile is found to be a few kilometers higher in altitude than the ionosonde profiles at the minimum frequency, fmin. When the ionosonde profiles are shifted so that the altitudes match at fmin, they are in good agreement up to the E-region peak altitude, hmE. Below fmin, the GNSS-RO profile is in good agreement with the FIRI profile, indicating that the profiles can measure the D- to E- transition region. The frequency of the E-region peak, foE, showed general agreement between the GNSS-RO and ionosonde measurements; however, the hmE agreement was weaker and the GNSS-RO profiles tend to have an hmE in a narrow altitude range for all profiles. Virtual heights were simulated for the GNSS-RO profiles using a numerical ray tracer for direct comparison with ionosonde observations, which showed agreement for many of the virtual heights near fmin, but also indicated a positive bias in the GNSS-RO virtual heights that may be due to low foE or elevated hmE estimates. For a quiet ionosphere, the shifted GNSS-RO electron density profiles were a good match for both measured ionosonde profiles and modeled FIRI profiles and the method is capable of providing global coverage of the D- and E-regions. Future work will require more data for seasonal and morning–afternoon comparisons as well as comparisons for the disturbed ionosphere when the sporadic-E layer is present.
Ballistic Coefficient Calculation Based on Optical Angle Measurements of Space Debris
Authors: Ding Yigao , Li Zhenwei , Liu Chengzhi , Kang Zhe , Sun Mingguo , Sun Jiannan , Chen Long
Published: September 2023

Atmospheric drag is an important factor affecting orbit determination and prediction of low-orbit space debris. To obtain accurate ballistic coefficients of space debris, we propose a calculation method based on measured optical angles. Angle measurements of space debris with a perigee height below 1400 km acquired from a photoelectric array were used for orbit determination. Perturbation equations of atmospheric drag were used to calculate the semi-major-axis variation. The ballistic coefficients of space debris were estimated and compared with those published by the North American Aerospace Defense Command in terms of orbit prediction error. The 48 h orbit prediction error of the ballistic coefficients obtained from the proposed method is reduced by 18.65% compared with the published error. Hence, our method seems suitable for calculating space debris ballistic coefficients and supporting related practical applications.
Seed Desiccation Sensitivity Varies with Geographic Distribution in Two New Zealand Native Pittosporum Species
Authors: Kai Yu , Alfaro Pinto Alejandra , Clavijo McCormick Andrea , Nadarajan Jayanthi , He Xiong Zhao , MacKay Marion , McGill Craig
Published: September 2023

Ex situ conservation involves the maintenance and reproduction of species in areas outside their natural habitats. Seed banking is a well-established ex situ approach used for plant conservation. Seed banking consists of collecting, drying, and storing seeds to preserve genetic diversity. The main limitation of this technique is that the seed must be desiccation tolerant. Seed storage behaviour can vary among species, and for some species, drying without loss of viability is not possible, meaning storage under conventional seed banking conditions (sub-zero temperatures and low relative humidity) is not possible. Understanding seed storage behaviour is an essential prerequisite for establishing whether conventional seed banking is an option for seed conservation. This study investigated the desiccation tolerance and sensitivity of mature seeds of two native New Zealand species of Pittosporum (P. eugenioides and P. crassifolium) from two geographic locations (Palmerston North and Wellington), with the aim of understanding their seed storage behaviour and thereby improving conservation outcomes. The variables measured were seed moisture content, viability, germination, and desiccation responses. We developed sorption isotherm for both species to support the future development of storage protocols. Our results show that both P. eugenioides and P. crassifolium display non-orthodox behaviour, i.e., are desiccation sensitive and cannot be stored under conventional seed banking conditions, but also suggest that seed desiccation responses vary with the geographical origin of the seeds. This study highlights the importance of exploring seed storage behaviour using different populations to optimize ex situ conservation strategies aimed at preserving the genetic diversity of New Zealand’s threatened and endangered species.
Optimizing Membrane Distillation Performance through Flow Channel Modification with Baffles: Experimental and Computational Study
Authors: Zhang Yaoling , Mu Xingsen , Sun Jiaqi , Guo Fei
Published: September 2023

It has been identified that temperature polarization and concentration polarization are typical near-surface phenomena limiting the performance of membrane distillation. The module design should allow for effective flow, reducing the polarization effects near the membrane surfaces and avoiding high hydrostatic pressure drops across and along the membrane surfaces. A potential route to enhancing the membrane distillation performance is geometry modification on the flow channel by employing baffles as vortex generators, reducing the polarization effects. In this work, various baffles with different structures were fabricated by 3D printing and attached to the feed flow channel shell in an air gap membrane distillation module. The hydrodynamic characteristics of the modified flow channels were systematically investigated via computational fluid dynamics simulations with various conditions. The membrane distillation tests show that adding the baffles to the feed channel can effectively increase the transmembrane flux. The transmembrane flux with rectangular baffles and shield-shaped baffles increases by 21.8% and 28.1% at the feed temperature of 70 °C. Moreover, the shield-shaped baffles in the flow channel not only enhance the transmembrane flux but also maintain a low-pressure drop, making it even more significant.
Solar Resource and Energy Demand for Autonomous Solar Cooking Photovoltaic Systems in Kenya and Rwanda
Authors: Cardoso João P. , Couto António , Costa Paula A. , Rodrigues Carlos , Facão Jorge , Loureiro David , Wambugu Anne , Banda Sandra , Da Silva Izael , Simões Teresa
Published: September 2023

The challenges associated with traditional cooking methods in African countries, particularly the use of firewood and charcoal, which have negative impacts on the environment, health and human and economic development and safety, are addressed in this work. Given the high annual solar irradiation on the African continent, photovoltaic-powered electric cooking alternatives, such as electric pressure cookers (EPCs), are identified as a potential efficient, clean and affordable cooking solution. This work focuses on the potential of standalone solar electric cookers for use in rural African locations, namely, if this type of solution can satisfy cooking demand. Surveys and experimental data from several households in two different countries (Rwanda and Kenya) were collected. Specifically, the researchers performed a survey regarding cooking habits and an experimental campaign to determine real energy consumption profiles of EPCs. The main results are analyzed and discussed in this work. An assessment of the solar power capability to directly supply the EPCs’ energy demand, as determined from the experimental data, is performed. The findings indicate that, for the most commonly prepared food types, using EPCs saves considerable time in comparison with traditional cooking methods. In Rwanda, time savings range from 55% to 84%, while in Kenya, the time saved varies from 9% to 64%. Results show that, even for scenarios with high installed solar capacity, storage solutions are required to enable the PV-powered EPC system to supply more than 50% of meal demand.
Perspectives on Player Performance during FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022: A Brief Report
Authors: Branquinho Luís , Forte Pedro , Thomatieli-Santos Ronaldo V. , de França Elias , Marinho Daniel A. , Teixeira José E. , Ferraz Ricardo
Published: September 2023

Changing the date of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 may represent a factor to consider for the expected performance of participating players. This was due to fixture congestion at the start of the season and expected weather conditions during the competition. Thus, the main purpose of this brief report was to critically analyze the potential impact of changing the competition date and weather conditions on players’ performance. In addition, a brief description about the performance during the World Cup is also provided. For the research, the Web of Science, PubMed and SPORTDiscus databases were accessed using the primary keywords FIFA World Cup and World Soccer Cup associated with the secondary keywords match running performance, fixture congestion, fatigue and weather conditions. After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, 52 articles were considered for analysis. The results seem to indicate that although changes were expected due to the modifications made (i.e., the competition date and scheduling congestion), the performance of the players seems not to have been affected in terms of the analyzed indicators. Furthermore, it seems possible to identify some patterns in the behavior of the teams that reached the most advanced stages of the competition.
Enhancing Competency and Industry Integration: A Case Study of Collaborative Systems Engineering Education for Future Success
Authors: Razbani Omid , Muller Gerrit , Kokkula Satyanarayana , Falk Kristin
Published: September 2023

This case study examines the effectiveness and industry relevance of a collaborative systems engineering master’s program in Kongsberg, Norway. Through close collaboration with industry partners, students gain practical experience and tackle real engineering challenges. The authors used statistical data, meeting notes, and an alumni survey to assess the program’s impact. The results indicate a high success rate of 87%, with alumni holding desirable positions in various engineering disciplines. The alumni expressed satisfaction with flexibility and teacher quality but desired more focus on leadership and soft skills. Strategic inputs highlight digitalization, sustainability, security, and progress in technology as critical topics for the industry, shaping the program’s evolution for continued relevance.
Population-Level Immunity for Transient Suppression of COVID-19 Waves in Japan from April 2021 to September 2022
Authors: Kodera Sachiko , Ueta Haruto , Unemi Tatsuo , Nakata Taisuke , Hirata Akimasa
Published: September 2023

Multiple COVID-19 waves have been observed worldwide, with varying numbers of positive cases. Population-level immunity can partly explain a transient suppression of epidemic waves, including immunity acquired after vaccination strategies. In this study, we aimed to estimate population-level immunity in 47 Japanese prefectures during the three waves from April 2021 to September 2022. For each wave, characterized by the predominant variants, namely, Delta, Omicron, and BA.5, the estimated rates of population-level immunity in the 10–64-years age group, wherein the most positive cases were observed, were 20%, 35%, and 45%, respectively. The number of infected cases in the BA.5 wave was inversely associated with the vaccination rates for the second and third injections. We employed machine learning to replicate positive cases in three Japanese prefectures to validate the reliability of our model for population-level immunity. Using interpolation based on machine learning, we estimated the impact of behavioral factors and vaccination on the fifth wave of new positive cases that occurred during the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. Our computational results highlighted the critical role of population-level immunity, such as vaccination, in infection suppression. These findings underscore the importance of estimating and monitoring population-level immunity to predict the number of infected cases in future waves. Such estimations that combine numerical derivation and machine learning are of utmost significance for effective management of medical resources, including the vaccination strategy.
Immunization with Multiple Virulence Factors Provides Maternal and Neonatal Protection against Group B Streptococcus Serotypes
Authors: Wang Jie , Li Wenbo , Li Ning , Wang Beinan
Published: September 2023

Group B streptococcus (GBS) commonly colonizes the vaginal tract and is a leading cause of life-threatening neonatal infections and adverse pregnancy outcomes. No effective vaccine is clinically available. Conserved bacterial virulence factors, including those of GBS, have been employed as vaccine components. We investigated serotype-independent protection against GBS by intranasal immunization with six conserved GBS virulence factors (GBSV6). GBSV6 induced systemic and vaginal antibodies and T cell responses in mice. The immunity reduced mouse mortality and vaginal colonization by various GBS serotypes and protected newborn mice of immunized dams against GBS challenge. Intranasal GBSV6 immunization also provided long-lasting protective immunity and had advantages over intramuscular GBSV6 immunization regarding restricting vaginal GBS colonization. Our findings indicate that intranasal immunization targeting multiple conserved GBS virulence factors induces serotype-independent immunity, which protects against GBS infection systemically and vaginally in dams and prevents newborn death. The study presents valuable strategies for GBS vaccine development.
Commodity assessment of cereals modifi ed by biotechnological methods using the glycemic index in vivo and in vitro
Authors:   FSBEI HE Russian Biotechnological University (ROSBIOTECH), Moscow, Timofeeva I.A. , Livinskiy A.A. ,   FSBEI HE Russian Biotechnological University (ROSBIOTECH), Moscow, Goryacheva E.D. ,   FSBEI HE Russian Biotechnological University (ROSBIOTECH), Moscow
Published: September 2023

The feasibility of commodity assessment of cereals modifi ed by biotechnological methods using the glycemic index was considered. The methods for determining the glycemic index in vivo and in vitro were used for making comparisons. The object of the study was a multigrain carbohydrate and protein mixture obtained by a modifi ed complex technology for processing raw materials. As a result of the research, it was found that the values of GI in vivo and GI in vitro of the carbohydrate and protein mixture do not coincide. It was shown that the determination of GI in vitro can be used as an operational method of quality control of new products in the scheme of technochemical production control. The in vivo GI determination method should be used for commodity assessment of new food products.
Approach to assessing the quality and identifying the naturality of pomegranate juices
Authors:   Department of Nutrition Technology, FSBEI HE Ural State University of Economics, Shkolnikova M.N. , Rozhnov E.D. ,   Department of Biotechnology, Biysk Technological Institute, branch of the Altai State Technical University named after I.I. Polzunov
Published: September 2023

The unique chemical composition and exceptional organoleptic properties cause not only the growing demand for pomegranate juice, but also its cost, and, consequently, vulnerability to falsifi cation, especially of high quality. Therefore, the identifi cation of the authenticity of pomegranate juice has remained an important area of scientifi c research. In this case, the most reliable algorithm should be considered the one that combines the study of several indicators: anthocyanins and polyphenolic substances, the concentration of sugars, organic acids, etc. The purpose of the work is a comprehensive study of the chemical composition of pomegranate juices purchased from trade organizations in order to identify juice authenticity. The experiment determined the organoleptic and physicochemical parameters of pomegranate juice samples, including chromatic characteristics. It has been established that, in terms of dry matter content, only sample No. 1 meets the requirements of TR CU 023/2011; it has been shown that in samples No. 2 and 3, there are no natural anthocyanin dyes, while the presence of synthetic dyes in these samples has been established. Pomegranate juice sample No. 1 has been proven to contain all of the organic acids normally found in authentic samples of this product. Meanwhile, samples No. 2 and 3 do not contain tartaric and quinic acids, and sample No. 2 does not contain malic acid either. The conducted studies are aimed at forming a unifi ed methodological approach to assessing the quality and identifying the authenticity of pomegranate juice, which will be developed and tested in further studies.
Feasibility of home administration of nebulised interferon ß-1a (SNG001) for COVID-19: a remote study
Authors: Francis Nick A , Monk Phillip D , Nuttall Jacqueline , Oliver Thomas , Simpson Catherine , Brookes Jody L , Tear Victoria J , Thompson Angela G , Batten Toby N , Mankowski Marcin , Wilkinson Thomas MA
Published: September 2023

Background

Effective therapeutics given early to high-risk ambulatory patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) could improve outcomes and reduce overall healthcare burden. However, conducting site visits in non-hospitalised patients, who should remain isolated, is problematic.

Aim

To evaluate the feasibility of a purely remote (virtual) study in non-hospitalised patients with COVID-19; and the efficacy and safety of nebulised recombinant interferon-β1a (SNG001) in this setting.

Design & setting

Randomised, double-blind, parallel-group study, which was conducted remotely.

Method

Eligible patients aged ≥65 years (or ≥50 years with risk factors) with COVID-19 and not requiring hospital admission were recruited remotely. They were randomised to SNG001 or placebo once-daily via nebuliser for 14 days. The main outcomes were assessments of feasibility and safety, which were all conducted remotely.

Results

Of 114 patients treated, 111 (97.4%) completed 28 days of follow-up. Overall compliance to study medication was high, with ≥13 doses taken by 89.7% and 92.9% of treated patients in the placebo and SNG001 groups, respectively. Over the course of the study, only two patients were hospitalised, both in the placebo group; otherwise there were no notable differences between treatments for the efficacy parameters. No patients withdrew owing to an adverse event, and a similar proportion of patients experienced on-treatment adverse events in the two treatment groups (64.3% and 67.2% with SNG001 and placebo, respectively); most were mild or moderate and not treatment-related.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that it is feasible to conduct a purely virtual study in community-based patients with COVID-19, when the study included detailed daily assessments and with medication administered via nebuliser.
Women’s information needs about menopause: a cross-sectional survey in Norwegian general practice
Authors: Natvik Marianne , Gjelsvik Bjorn , Vangen Siri , Skjeie Holgeir , Brekke Mette
Published: September 2023

Background

Research has indicated that providing women with information about menopause can improve their attitudes towards it and symptom experience. Nevertheless, information shared on the menopause is often arbitrary.

Aim

To examine women’s information needs about menopause, and understand if, when, and from whom they want information.

Design & setting

A cross-sectional study was undertaken. A questionnaire survey was distributed to women in the waiting room of 54 general practice clinics in South-Eastern Norway in autumn 2022.

Method

Medical students recruited women in the clinic waiting rooms. A 1-page study-specific questionnaire was used, focusing on need for information about menopause. A multinominal logistic regression model was used to analyse the association between the desire for information and education level, country of birth, and menopausal status.

Results

A total of 625 women were included, with a mean age of 44.4 years (standard deviation [SD] 8.7). In all, 59% answered that they wanted information about menopause, and 81% of these wanted their GP to inform them, from a median age of 45 years. According to the women, only 10% of GPs had initiated a discussion on the menopause. Higher education was a predictor for wanting information. A main driver of information needs was to help oneself in the present and in the future. In all, 33% did not want information. The main reasons were that they already possessed sufficient information, would take menopause as it comes, were too young, or were already postmenopausal. The sex of the GP did not influence the results.

Conclusion

Most women wanted information about menopause from their GP. The study emphasises the need for GPs to consider prioritising this discussion, and to keep up to date on recommendations and treatment options.