bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Potential Probiotic Properties and Biotechnological Activities of Lactobacillus Strains Isolated from Traditional Algerian Fermented Wheat ELHAMOUM
Authors: Chadli Amina , Benbouziane Bouasria , Bouderoua Kaddour , Bentahar Mohamed Cherif , Benabdelmoumene Djilali
Published: February 2024

Background: The objective of the current study was to explore the in vitro probiotic and technological characteristics of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) isolated from Algerian fermented wheat. Methods: Three LAB strains were selected and identified using 16S rRNA gene sequencing, in vitro assessments of probiotic properties included resistance to simulated gastric and intestinal conditions, auto-aggregation and antimicrobial susceptibility against common pathogens. Furthermore, the strains were evaluated for their biotechnological properties. Results: The results of 16S rRNA gene sequencing showed that two of them were Levilactobacillus brevis (LAn91 and LAn110) and LAn12a was Lactiplantibacillus pentosus. The tolerance of all strains to gastric acid and bile salts was more than 90%; they showed a high auto-aggregation capacity and a variable antagonistic property against pathogenic strains. Strain LAn12a presented the best biotechnological characteristics (proteolytic, acidifying and lactose hydrolysis), while the LAn91 and LAn110 strains were not able to acidify milk. All the strains exhibited a survival count in fermented milk exceeding 7 log CFU/ml during storage at 4°C on day 21, which surpasses the requirement of 6 log CFU/ml to provide health benefits. These bacteria can also be employed for the creation of functional foods and to validate their suitability as probiotic starter cultures.
Positionality, Gender and Reflexivity in Outsider-Insider Research
Authors: Shen Anqi
Published: February 2024

This article examines the intricacies of researcher positionality in a study examining women in policing in China. It aims to shed light on the manifold ways in which researcher positionality – the researcher’s relationship with the participants, gender and other identities – impacts the research process. The study draws from my own experiences, as a female researcher and former insider, engaging in qualitative interviews with both female and male police officers in the context of a feminist inquiry into women in Chinese policing. This article explores the advantages and challenges of outsider-insider research, dissects the role of gender in shaping the research landscape and probes how the researcher’s myriad identities may influence research access, information gathering, data analysis, findings and conclusions. Moreover, it discusses strategies adopted to overcome research barriers. By presenting this outsider-insider research as a case study, the article underscores the vital role of researcher reflexivity in unearthing the truth regarding women’s experiences and upholding academic rigour. It not only advocates for the use of qualitative interviewing as a tool for knowledge production, but also makes important contributes to the fields of feminist research and qualitative inquiry. In addition, it offers compelling narratives of women within Chinese law enforcement, thereby enriching the discourse on gender policing studies.
An Insider Within
Authors: Kotonya Anne
Published: February 2024

This article utilizes doctoral research on access to justice and clinical legal education to reflect on the positionality that the researcher embodies from their diverse professional affiliations. It adds a nuance to the debate on positionality by relaying it as a concentric experience. The article offers insights on navigating layered insider status through the use of reflexivity journals, removing familiarity in the interview environment and returning to the literature after fieldwork. Noting that one may still be perceived as ‘other,’ it outlines the role of go-betweens to access research participants, follow-up questions to allow for participant voices to be heard and a friendly demeanour to build rapport. The article supports training of novice researchers in reflexivity and grounded theory research as ways of facilitating rigour. It will be useful for socio-legal researchers who have a propensity to embody layered insider status from their diverse professional affiliations when researching in their own countries.
Infographic: Developmental Coordination Disorder (Part II) – Recommendations for Motor Interventions
Authors: Tamplain Priscila , Ferracioli-Gama Marcela C.
Published: February 2024

Children with Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) have motor coordination below expectations for their chronologic age and are commonly described as clumsy 1. The goal of this infographic is to provide information on recommendations for motor intervention of DCD based on information available on a recent study 2. Overall, the literature affirms that children with a diagnosis of DCD should receive intervention. Both physical and occupational therapy are recommended and can help children perform everyday tasks. According to the international clinical practice guidelines 3, when planning a program of intervention, it is recommended that both the strengths and weaknesses of the individual in their environmental context should be taken into account in order to improve motor function, activity, and participation.
Smits-Engelsman and colleagues 2 classified motor interventions with basis on the International Classification of Functioning (ICF) framework: 1) body function and structure (BF) oriented, where the activity engaged in is designed to improve targeted body functions considered to underlie the reported functional motor problem; 2) activity oriented where the activity engaged in is designed to improve performance in that activity; and 3) participation oriented, where the activity engaged in is designed to improve participation in that activity in an everyday life situation. Overall, positive benefits were evident for activity-oriented approaches, body function-oriented when combined with activities, active video games, and small group programs 2. However, the authors explained the need for more rigorous RCTs with follow-up to demonstrate sustained change rather than just short-term gains in performance.
A specific approach that shows overall effectiveness is the Cognitive Orientation to daily Occupational Performance (CO-OP), which is an individualized, task-specific (activity-oriented), cognitive-based, problem-solving approach for individuals experiencing difficulties performing the skills they want or need to do. A recent randomized waitlist-control trial showed that CO-OP was effective in achieving and maintaining functional motor goals after 3 months for children with DCD 4.
Other specific recommendations involve the incorporation of physical fitness (cardiorespiratory fitness and functional strength) protocols, Neuromotor Task Training (NTT), and the use of motor imagery training 3. The severity of motor impairment affects not only the presentation of DCD but also participation, which has important implications for treatment 3. Different interventions may be required at key stages of development or periods of transition to target participation 5. Overall, it is recommended that individuals with DCD are given ample opportunity to practice movement skills to learn them and to participate in daily activities (e.g., at home, school, in community and leisure settings, and in sports).
Study of cerebral cortico-cortical coherence during motor practice
Authors: Apolinário-Souza Tércio , Lage Guilherme M. , Fernandes Lidiane A.
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND: Coherence is one of the neural mechanisms related to communication and plasticity. The literature presents two divergent results regarding coherence and motor practice. One result suggests a decrease in coherence during practice, while the other indicates an increase in coherence throughout practice.
AIM: Considering these two divergent results in the literature, this study aimed to examine the role of coherence in motor practice. We hypothesize that electrode pairs related to C3 (C3-P3 and C3-F3) show an increase of coherence during practice, while electrodes less related to motor action (F4, C4, and P4) may exhibit decreased.
METHOD: Twenty-four right-handed participants practice 120 trials of a sequential key-pressing task.
RESULTS: The results indicated, in the alpha upper and theta bands, from initiation to end of practice, the coherence increased in the F3-C3 electrode pair and decreased in the C3-C4, C3-P3, P3-P4, F3-P3, and C4-P4 electrodes pairs.
CONCLUSION: The results partially confirmed the hypothesis. The coherence increases in the electrode pairings related to the motor execution and decreases between the lesser related. During the motor learning process, communication reduction occurred in groups of neurons not associated with the stimulus, and the potentiation of synaptic plasticity within groups of neurons associated with the stimulus occurred.
Fascicle shortening upon activation in voluntary human muscle contractions
Authors: De Brito Fontana Heiliane , Herzog Walter
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND: The dependence of fascicle length on complex interactions with joint angle and force challenges the interpretation of in vivo joint mechanics, muscle mechanical properties, contractile behavior, and muscle function.
AIM: The purpose of this study was to determine the complex interaction between muscle activation, joint angle, and fascicle length for isometric contractions of the human vastus lateralis muscle (VL).
METHOD: Knee extensor torques, joint angles, EMG activation, and fascicle lengths were determined in nine healthy subjects during maximal and submaximal isometric contractions.
RESULTS: Fascicle shortening during isometric contractions depended on muscle-tendon unit length/joint angle and activation, reaching a maximum between angles where VL had its maximum force potential and minimum resistance to fascicle shortening. Maximal fascicle shortening shifted to shorter muscle-tendon unit lengths with decreasing activation.
CONCLUSION: Fascicle shortening upon activation depends crucially on the force generating potential and stiffness of the muscle and can reach 30% of the resting fascicle length. Not accounting for the complex interactions between muscle length, force potential, muscle structure, and muscle stiffness has led to erroneous interpretations of the function and properties of healthy and diseased muscles.
Does footedness affect bilateral plantar flexor responses to sudden stance perturbations under unilateral lower leg muscular fatigue?
Authors: Rinaldin Carla D. P. , Oliveira Julia A. , Souza Caroline R. , Coelho Daniel B. , Teixeira Luis A.
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND: Analysis of performance asymmetries has indicated that the right and left cerebral hemispheres are specialized for specific functions of motor control.
AIM: In the current investigation, we aimed to evaluate the effect of leg dominance on electrical activation of the plantar flexor muscles in responses to unanticipated stance perturbations in a state muscular fatigue of the dominant leg.
METHOD: Fatigue was induced through ankle isometric contraction targeting 40% of maximum voluntary contraction. Muscle activation of the triceps surae of the dominant and non-dominant legs were compared in reactive responses to unanticipated load released from the trunk, leading to forward body sway. Muscular responses were analyzed in two states: pre-fatigue and fatigue of the triceps surae muscles of the dominant leg only.
RESULTS: Analysis of magnitude of muscular activation for balance recovery following perturbations revealed fatigue-related compensatory activation in the lateral gastrocnemius muscle, as indicated by over-activation of the non-fatigued/non-dominant leg to compensate for the low muscular activation of the dominant/fatigued leg in the unilateral fatigue state.
CONCLUSION: Compensatory behavior between the legs was not evident in the medial gastrocnemius and soleus muscles. Lack of effects related to leg dominance indicates that footedness did not affect automatic muscular responses either in the pre-fatigue or fatigue states.
“Perrotta Love Stability Questionnaire” (PLS-Q1): Development and Regulation of a Psychometric Instrument to Investigate Couple Relationship Stability in Healthy and Psychopathologically Affected Individuals
Authors: Perrotta Giulio
Published: February 2024

Background. On the subject of couple relationships, the literature pays attention to clinical, socio-anthropological profiles and psychological issues related to the capacity to love, empathy, satisfaction and happiness; however, there is a lack of a psychometric tool that can address the issue of couple stability in a structured and organized manner from an emotional-affective perspective. Objectives. To develop and adjust a psychometric tool that can be efficient and effective in solving the analysis of a coefficient of couple relational stability. Materials and Methods. Clinical interview, based on narrative-anamnestic and documentary evidence, and battery of psychometric tests. Results. In CGa, those who scored more than 20% differential at PLS-Q1 were 58/118 (69%), while in CGb they were 118/118 (100%). In therapy, in the CGa, the resolved cases were 58/58 (100%), while in the CGb, the resolved cases were 110/118 (93%). At the clinical interview, it was found that the 8/118 (7%) "resistant" patients had, according to the PICI-3 model, a diagnosis of borderline personality disorder (5/8, 63%), histrionic-narcissistic (2/8, 25%), and bipolar (1/8, 12%), and thus by their nature not very prone to therapeutic adherence. Conclusions. Perrotta Love Stability Questionnaire (PLS-Q1) is a psychometric tool that offers therapists the opportunity to explore the topic of couple relationship stability, helping them to better focus on patients' vulnerable emotional positions to construct the most appropriate and targeted clinical intervention
A Guide for the Bioinformatic Analysis of Metabolomics Data
Authors: Santamaria Guillem , Pinto Francisco R
Published: February 2024

Metabolites are at the end of the gene-transcript-protein-metabolism cascade. As such, metabo-lomics is the omic approach that offers the most direct correlation with phenotype. This allows that, where genomics, transcriptomics and proteomics fail to explain a trait, metabolomics might give an answer. Complex phenotypes, which are determined by the influence of multiple small effect alleles, are an example of these situations. Consequently, the interest in metabolomics has increased ex-ponentially in the last years. As a newer discipline, the metabolomics bioinformatics analysis pipe-lines are not as standardized as in the other omic approaches. In this review we synthesized the different steps that need to be carried out to obtain biological insight from the annotated metabolite abundance raw data. These steps were grouped in three different modules: preprocessing, statistical analyses and metabolic pathway enrichment. We included within each one of them the different state-of-the art procedures and tools that can be used depending on the characteristics of the study, providing details about the characteristics of each method has, as well as the issues the reader might encounter. Finally, we introduce genome scale metabolic modeling as a tool for obtaining pseu-do-metabolomic data in situations where its acquisition is difficult, being possible to analyze the resulting data with the modules of the described workflow.
Experimental Nonlinear and Incremental Control Stabilization of a Tail-Sitter UAV with Hardware-in-the-Loop Validation
Authors: Athayde Alexandre , Moutinho Alexandra , Azinheira José Raul
Published: February 2024

Tail-sitters aim to combine the advantages of fixed-wing and rotor-craft, but demand a robust and fast stabilization strategy to perform vertical maneuvers and transitions to and from aerodynamic flight. The research conducted in this work intends to assess the performance of nonlinear control strategies to stabilize the attitude of a X-Vert VTOL aircraft when hovering, comparing existing solutions to applications of Nonlinear Dynamics Inversion (NDI) and its incremental version, INDI. Such controllers are implemented and tuned in simulation in order to stabilize a model of the tail-sitter , complemented by estimation methods that allow to feed back the necessary variables. These estimators and controllers are then implemented in a microcontroller, validating them in a Hardware-in-the-Loop (HITL) scenario, with simple maneuvers in vertical flight. Lastly, the developed control solutions are used to stabilize the aircraft in experimental flight, being monitored by a motion capture system. The experimental results allow to validate the model of the X-Vert and compare the effectiveness of the different control solutions in stabilizing it, with the INDI presenting itself as a more robust control strategy, with better tracking capabilities and less actuator demands.
Enhancing Vehicle Lightweight Design Process with Genetic Algorithm-Optimized BP Neural Network and Topology Optimization: A Comprehensive Study
Authors: Liao Shengzhao , Zhong Li , Yi Liu
Published: February 2024

Amid the swift progression of the global automobile industry, the aspiration for lightweight vehicle design has surfaced as a crucial approach to boost fuel efficiency and curtail environmental impact. The objective of this study revolves around achieving holistic optimization of vehicle structure via detailed scrutiny of vehicle process characteristics, amalgamated with a Back Propagation neural network (BPNN) optimized by a genetic algorithm (GA) and a topology optimization (TO) method.The process initiates with an examination of the vehicle's technical characteristics, succeeded by an optimization protocol that couples GA with BPNN. This exhaustive optimization procedure derives the best-fit values of design parameters and identifies the globally optimal lightweight design approach. Subsequently, a comprehensive structural optimization is actualized by modifying the topological distribution of the structure.A simulation experiment of the conceptual car body beam skeleton is conducted as a conclusive step, and the anti-collision capacity of the car body beam skeleton is assessed by measuring deformation intrusion. The findings reveal that in the vehicle topology optimization, a comparative analysis of pre and post-optimization results indicates an improved topological density across diverse sections. The topological density of the vehicle's frontal structure escalates from 0.75 to 0.8. Following optimization, the stiffness assessment records a marginal increase (within the range of 0.02–0.05), implying that the lightweight design does not compromise the general rigidity of the structure.The optimized body structure manifests superior crashworthiness in the crash test: the deformation intrusion diminishes by 27% in front-end collisions. In side impacts, the deformation and intrusion at critical points are reduced by 13.15% to 10% respectively. The comprehensive method proposed herein proves to be an efficient strategy to actualize the lightweight design of vehicles.
Effect of Warm-Dry Storage And Supplemental Application of Gibberellins on The Lipid Profile of Chincuya Seeds (Annona purpurea Moc. & Sessé ex Dunal)
Authors: VIDAL-LEZAMA ELOÍSA , REYES-TREJO BENITO , VILLEGAS-MONTER ANGEL , VAQUERA-HUERTA HUMBERTO , ROBLEDO-PAZ ALEJANDRINA , MARTINEZ-PALACIOS ALEJANDRO , FERREIRA GISELA
Published: February 2024

There is sufficient knowledge of the beneficial effect of warm-dry storage on breaking the morpho-logical dormancy of the chincuya (Annona purpurea Moc. & Sessé ex Dunal) seed embryo. Chincuya is an underutilized, tropical wild species native to Mexico, with potential as a biopesticide.
The impact of warm-dry storage and gibberellic acid treatment on seed viability and germination was determined to improve that knowledge further. Also, the content and kinetics of fatty acids in chincuya seeds were profiled during warm-dry storage. Seed treatments included storage time (0, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months), seed imbibition for 72 h in gibberellic acid at 350 mg L-1, and distilled water im-bibition for 72 h for the control treatment. Seed viability was determined using the TTZ classic test. Imbibed seeds were germinated on paper towels and incubated at 30 °C during the day and 25 °C at night in a 12:12 h dark:light photoperiod. The lipid profile was obtained by gas chromatography. During the storage treatment, seeds stayed in darkness at 25 ± 3 °C. Results showed that high viability remained up to month 9 in storage when it significantly decreased. Freshly harvested seeds germi-nated at a statistically significantly lower rate (26.1 %) than six-month-old seeds (65.6 %). The profile of fatty acids breaks down as palmitic acid (33.41 %), stearic acid (7.72 %), and arachidic acid (1.30 %), for a total of 42.44 % of saturated fatty acids. The detected unsaturated fatty acids (52.15 %) were palmitoleic acid (1.52 %), oleic acid (43.37 %), and linoleic acid (7.24 %). No significant changes were detected in fatty acid content; however, the highest fatty acid content (92.84 %) occurred with the highest germination rate. Regression analysis showed significant content changes: palmitoleic and palmitic acid increased while oleic acid decreased during dry storage. Arachidic acid showed a slight downward trend. Also, fatty acid content significantly differed between intact seeds (unstored and unincubated) and latent seeds (unstored, incubated, and ungerminated). The total fatty acids content for latent seeds was significantly lower. These results show that Annona purpurea seeds present morphophysiological dormancy. Also, we document the highest germination rate reported (65.6 %) and report the presence of arachidic and palmitoleic acids in chincuya seeds.
Sotagliflozin Promotes Anti-oxidant Properties in the Kidneys of Type 1 Diabetic Akimba Mice
Authors: Herat Lakshini Y , Matthews Jennifer R , Sarvi Darimi Ana , Rakoczy Elizabeth , Matthews Vance B , Schlaich Markus P
Published: February 2024

Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disease consisting of Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. Although treatment of Type 1 diabetes primarily involves insulin therapy, inhibitors of sodium glucose co-transporters (SGLT’s) are a promising new therapeutic. Of particular interest are the two family members, SGLT1 and SGLT2 that collectively contribute to 100% of filtered glucose reabsorption within the kidneys. Consequently, sole SGLT2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) and dual SGLT1/2 inhibitors (SGLT1/2i) contribute to reducing blood glucose levels by reducing glucose reabsorption and promoting glucosuria and natriuresis. Research from our team on SGLT2i, showed that there is a compensatory mechanism whereby SGLT1 is upregulated. This therefore may warrant the combined use of SGLT1/2i. Our in vitro results demonstrated that whilst both the sole SGLT2i empagliflozin (EMPA) and dual SGLT1/2i sotagliflozin (SOTAG) significantly reduce glucose uptake within HK2 cells, the latter was more effective. In addition, our in vitro results indicate significantly more pronounced upregulation of SGLT1 protein with EMPA compared to SOTAG. Our in vivo mechanistic findings demonstrated that SGLT1/2i significantly increased renal SOD1 levels, whilst SGLT2i significantly elevated renal SOD2 levels. Therefore, our study highlighted that SGLT2i and SGLT1/2i differentially regulate protective anti-oxidant proteins in the kidney.
Optimal Opacity-Enforcing Supervisory Control of Discrete Event Systems on Choosing Cost
Authors: Dai Yinyin , Wang Fei , Luo Jiliang
Published: February 2024

To assure the opacity, an optimal problem is to retain the occurring events sequences as many as possible. Contrary to such problem, the other optimal problem is to preserve the minimal occurring events sequences. In the paper, based on the choosing cost, an optimal opacity-enforcing model is presented to minimize the sum of discount choosing cost, which is not only to preserve the opacity, but also to retain the secret to the maximum. To solve the model, two scenarios on opacity are considered. For the two scenarios, some algorithms are presented to achieve the optimal solution for the model by using the method of dynamic programming. And then, the solutions produced by the algorithms are proved correctly by theoretical proof. Finally, some illustrations for the algorithms are given.
Comparing Collaboration of Smallholder Farmers through Participatory Guarantee System Practices in Northeastern Thailand
Authors: Phromthep Pisanee , Torut Buruskorn
Published: February 2024

Organic agriculture based on participatory guarantee system (PGS) has been promoted as a tool for sustainable ecosystem, self-reliance and poverty alleviation of smallholder farmers in Thailand. However, specific criteria are required to certify as organic products. In this paper, the researchers present the collaboration of smallholder farmers practicing organic farming based on participatory guarantee system in four Thai provinces: Nong Bua Lam Phu, Nakhon Phanom, Ubon Ratchathani and Nakhon Ratchasima. One hundred thirty-five smallholder farmers were purposively selected as the informants. In depth interviews were conducted to conceptualize. The participatory guarantee system management considering their diverse agricultural background and socio-economic conditions. Main findings concluded that motivations for PGS were restoration soil quality and decreasing yield. Key factors for sustainable adaptation are policy support in terms of financial measures and capacity building.
Exploring Regorafenib Responsiveness and Uncovering Molecular Mechanisms in Recurrent Glioblastoma Tumors Through Longitudinal In Vitro Sampling
Authors: Morelli Mariangela , Lessi Francesca , Franceschi Sara , Ferri Gianmarco , Giacomarra Manuel , Menicagli Michele , Gambacciani Carlo , Pieri Francesco , Pasqualetti Francesco , Montemurro Nicola , Aretini Paolo , Santonocito Orazio Santo , Di Stefano Anna Luisa , Mazzanti Chiara Maria
Published: February 2024

Glioblastoma, a deadly brain tumor, shows limited response to standard therapies like te-mozolomide (TMZ). Recent findings from the REGOMA trial underscore a significant survival improvement offered by regorafenib (REGO) in recurrent glioblastoma. Our study aimed to propose a 3D ex vivo drug response precision medicine approach to investigate recurrent glio-blastoma sensitivity to REGO and elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms involved in tumor resistance or responsiveness to treatment. 3D glioblastoma organoids (GB-EXPs) obtained from 18 patients’ resected recurrent glioblastoma tumors were treated with TMZ and REGO. Drug responses were evaluated using NAD(P)H FLIM, stratifying tumors as responders (Resp) or non-responders (NR). Whole-exome sequencing was performed on 16 tissue samples, and whole-transcriptome analysis on 13 GB-EXPs treated and untreated. We found 35% (n=9) and 77% (n=20) of tumors responded to TMZ and REGO, respectively, with no instances of TMZ-Resp be-ing REGO-NR. Exome analysis revealed a unique mutational profile in REGO-Resp tumors compared to NR tumors. Transcriptome analysis identified distinct expression patterns in Resp and NR tumors, impacting Rho GTPase and NOTCH signaling, known to be involved in drug response. In conclusion, recurrent glioblastoma tumors were more responsive to REGO com-pared to TMZ treatment. Importantly, our approach enables a comprehensive longitudinal ex-ploration of the molecular changes induced by treatment, unveiling promising biomarkers in-dicative of drug response.
Urinary Infections in a Hospital Unit in Central Portugal – 5-Year Analysis
Authors: Castelo Branco Miguel , Coelho Patricia , Rodrigues Francisco
Published: February 2024

Urinary infections are defined as the presence of microorganisms in any part of the urinary system, with the exception of the distal urethra. The majority are uncomplicated infections, resolved on an outpatient basis, with empirical therapy. The objectives of this work were to study the sociodemographic characteristics of patients, analyze associated strains and examine the response of the main microorganisms to antibiotics. A retrospective observational study of all positive urine cultures between 2018 and 2022 was carried out in an Institution (8340 samples). Sociodemographic data were also collected. 61.3% were women, with an average age of 63.4 years, 43.2% from the Emergency Department. 13.5% were fitted, 56% of whom were women. 95.9% were not taking any antibiotics and among the individuals who were taking antibiotics, 50% were injected. Escherichia coli (53.5%) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (13,8%) are identified as the most prevalent strains. In the time periods analyzed, Escherichia coli decreased its resistance to 11 antibiotics and increased to 5 antibiotics, while Klebsiella pneumoniae decreased to 7 and increased to 7, with emphasis on the presence of 3 antibiotics with a resistance rate of 100 % to all Klebsiella pneumoniae strains identified in 2022.
Effect of Drainage Practice on the Emission of Two Carbon-Based Greenhouse Gases (CO2 and CH4) from Paddy System in South Korea: Field Pilot Study
Authors: Hwang Wonjae , Park Minseok , Cho Kijong , Hyun Seunghun
Published: February 2024

In this field pot study, effect of drainage method (e.g., intermittent drainage (ID) and continuous flooding (CF)) on greenhouse gas (GHGs: CO2 and CH4) emission was determined from three Korean paddies (BG, MG, and JS series), varying soil properties such as soil texture, labile carbon, and mineral types. Emission of GHGs was evidently influenced by the irrigation, to a different extent, depending on paddy’s redox (Eh) shift upon flooding events. The Eh decline upon flooding was slower in JS pot, where pore-water concentration of ferric and sulfate ions is the highest (~ up to 3-fold) among three paddies. MG pot was 2- to 3-fold percolative than others and the Eh drop during flooding period was the smallest (staying above -50 mV). In ID treatment, CH4 emission (t CO2-eq ha-1 yr-1) was reduced in a wide range by 5.6 for JS pot, 2.08 for BG pot, and 0.29 for MG pot relative to CF, whereas CO2 emissions (t CO2-eq ha-1 yr-1) was increased by 1.25 for JS pot, 1.07 for BG pot, and 0.48 for MG pot due to the enhanced oxidation of labile carbon. Grain yield and aboveground biomass production from ID were no less than those from CF (p < 0.05). Consequently, gain of global warming potential (S GWP) by ID varied as the order of JS (37%) > BG (14%) > MG (~0 %) pots, and negligible effect observed for MG pot is due to the equivalent trade-off between CO2 and CH4. Our findings suggest that the efficacy of ID practice on GHGs emission can be further improved by the consideration of redox response of paddy system.
Dazzling Evaluation of High-repetition-rate CO2 Pulsed Laser on Infrared Imaging Systems
Authors: Zheng Hanyu , Wang Yunzhe , Liu Yang , Sun Tao , Shao Junfeng
Published: February 2024

This article utilizes the Canny edge extraction algorithm based on contour curvature and the cross-correlation template matching algorithm to extensively study the impact of high-repetition-rate CO2 pulsed Laser on the target extraction and tracking performance of the infrared imaging detector. It establishes a quantified dazzling pattern for lasers on infrared imaging systems. By conducting laser dazzling and damage experiments, a detailed analysis of the normalized correlation between target and dazzling images is performed to quantitatively describe laser dazzling effects. Simultaneously, an evaluation system, including target distance and laser power evaluation factors, is established to determine the dazzling level and whether the target is recognizable. The research results reveal that laser power and target position are crucial factors affecting the detection performance of infrared imaging-guided weapon systems under laser dazzling. Different laser powers are required to successfully interfere with the recognition algorithm of infrared imaging-guided weapons at different distances. And laser dazzling will produce a lot of false edge information, which seriously affects the performance of pattern recognition algorithm. In laser damage experiments, the detector experienced functional damage, with a quarter of the image displaying as completely black. The energy density threshold required for functional damage to the detector is approximately 3 J/cm2. The dazzling assessment conclusions also apply to evaluating damage results. Finally, the proposed evaluation formula aligns with experimental results, objectively reflecting the actual impact of laser dazzling on the target extraction and tracking performance of infrared imaging systems. This study provides an in-depth and accurate analysis for understanding the influence of lasers on the performance of infrared imaging-guided weapons.
Experimental Analysis of a Polygeneration System: Assessment of the Thermal Sub-system
Authors: Rodrigues Andre , Palmero-Marrero Ana , Soares Joao , Varga Szabolcs , Oliveira Armando Coelho
Published: February 2024

In this paper, the experimental results of the thermal sub-system of a reliable and cost-effective polygeneration solar system are presented. This polygeneration system produces heating, cooling and electricity from solar energy, which are used in an existing test-building. Heat is generated in four evacuated tube solar collectors (ETC). The heat may be used for space cooling, through a variable geometry ejector (VGE) heat pump. In order to reduce the mismatches between generation and consumption, two thermal storage tanks were added.
The performance of a new thermal storage, with 400 l, able to storage both sensible and latent heat, was tested. Heating performances of the test-building were assessed. Ejector cycle tests were also performed.
Experimental Evaluation of a Novel Device to Quantify Canal Cleanliness: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Arcuri Lorenzo , Gambarini Ginaluca , Zanza Alessio , Testarelli Luca , Arcuri Claudio , Cross Randolph , Galli Massimo
Published: February 2024

Endodontic treatments are performed to avoid extractions and maintain the natural dentition. Root canal treatments are undertaken to eliminate or prevent an infection within the root canal system. Chemical and mechanical root canal debridement are the main methods used in endo-dontics to remove necrotic tissue, microorganisms, and microbial byproducts from the canal. However, to date there is no objective method to clinically determine the proper root canal disin-fection level and thus proceed with the obturation. Clinicians just rely on their experience and habits or can trust in empirical methods such as the insertion of paper cones inside the channel and then check their appearance after the removal. Even in the in vitro and ex vivo scientific stud-ies there is no objective method to analyze and compare the efficacy of different endodontic chemo-mechanical techniques and materials. The most frequently used method is to visually an-alyze some areas with a scanning electron microscope (SEM), even if the resulting images are hardly quantifiable and could greatly vary according to the analyzed area. A new device to clin-ically test the cleanliness of a root canal and display the result in an objective score was recently developed. The device analyzes the luminescence generated by an enzyme cycling method that process the adenosine triphosphate (ATP), adenosine diphosphate (ADP) and adenosine mono-phosphate (AMP) present in organic residues. The aim of the present in vitro study was to test the efficacy and reliability of this novel device in a controlled in vitro environment, before using it in clinical practice.
Analysis of Hybrid Ship Machinery System with Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells and Battery Pack
Authors: Penga Jure , Vidović Tino , RADICA GOJMIR , Penga Željko
Published: February 2024

As marine traffic is contributing to pollution and mostly have predictable route with repetitive load profiles, to reduce their impact on environment, hybrid system with proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC-s) and battery pack, is promising replacement. For this purpose, the numerical model of repowered existing vessel that have two diesel engines with 300 kWe is developed. The goal of this paper is to develop numerical model which analyzes and determine equivalent hybrid ship propulsion system for known traveling route. The developed numerical model consists of an interconnected system with PEMFC stack and battery pack as power sources. Numerical model is developed and optimized to meet minimal required power demand for successful route demand, which has variable loads and daily sails six-time same voyage- in total 54 nautical miles. The results have shown that equivalent hybrid power system consists of 300 kWe PEMFC stack and battery pack with 424 kWh battery and state of charge varying between 20 and 87%. To power this new hybrid power system, hydrogen tank of 7200 l holding 284.7 kg at pressure of 700 bar is needed, compared to previous system that spend 1524 kg of diesel and generate 4886 kg of CO2.
Trade Agreements and Financial Market Integration in Latin America and the US
Authors: Obed Fernando Izaguirre , Shin Seungho , Zirek Duygu
Published: February 2024

The primary objective of this study is to examine the extent of financial integration between Latin American and US financial markets, particularly in light of recent efforts to foster integration through trade agreements. Spanning from January 1, 1990, to December 31, 2019, the sample focuses on major market indices and key sectors. Financial integration is quantified using a DCC multivariate GARCH model, incorporating a smooth transition model, structural breaks, and regression-based approaches. Results indicate increased comovement with the US for main market indices in Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, and Peru, while Brazil shows a decrease. Similar trends are observed in sectoral analyses. The study also reveals heightened correlation post-trade agreements. Structural break analysis highlights significant shifts in dynamic correlations for countries with US free trade agreements. These findings support the argument of increased financial integration, bearing significance for portfolio diversification and international policy formulation.
Identifying factors affecting burnout syndrome and depression among dentists working in different institutions
Authors: CİĞERİM Levent , ORHAN Zeynep Dilan , DOĞRU İbrahim , KAHRAMAN Nazlı Hilal , HUSSEİN Abdalrahim , BAŞ Hayrettin
Published: February 2024

Background and Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine the job-related and individual features that influence BS and depression levels among dentists working in faculties, oral and dental health centres (ODHC) and private clinics. Materials and Methods: This prospective, cross sectional study was carried out on dentists working in different regions of Turkey. Data were collected using an on-line questionnaire created using Google Forms. The questionnaire consisted of demographic data, Maslach BS Inventory (MBI) and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) sections. Demographics were age, height, weight, marital status, blood type, gender, monthly income, income satisfaction and having enough free time. The dentists were divided into 3 groups as faculty, private clinic and ODHC according to the institutions in which they worked. Results: Of the total 290 dentists enrolled in the study, there were 172 males and 118 females with a mean age of 36.98±5.6 years. 128 of the dentists worked in faculties, 72 in private clinics and 90 in ODHCs. It was observed that women's EE scores were higher than men's (P<0.05). No statistically significant difference was found between the groups when comparing BS and depression scores according to marital status and blood group (P>0.05). There was no significant relationship between emotional exhaustion (EE), depersonalisation (DP), personal accomplishment (PA) and depression scores according to age, BMI and work experience, age, work experience and BMI (P<0.05). It was found that the EE scores of the dentists working in the faculty and private clinic were lower than those of the dentists working in the ODHC (P<0.05). Monthly income was associated with depression (r = -0.35). Conclusions: This study showed that dentists working in ODHCs had more EE. These findings suggest that there is a need for improvement in the working conditions of dentists, particularly in ODHCs.
The Relation Between C3 Hypocomplementemia, Thrombotic Microangiopathy And End-Stage Kidney Disease In Iga Nephropathy
Authors: Rossi Giovanni Maria , Ricco Federico , Pisani Isabella , Delsante Marco , Maggiore Umberto , Fiaccadori Enrico , Manenti Lucio
Published: February 2024

IgA nephropathy (IgAN) is the most common primary glomerulonephritis worldwide. IgAN causes end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) in 20–40% of all cases. The activation of the complement system by pathological circulating IgAs, which is often associated with low serum C3 levels (LowC3), seems to play a crucial role. Previous studies have shown an association between histological evidence of TMA, which is the result of alternative complement activation, and poor outcome. However, it is not known to what extent the decrease in serum C3 levels reflects ongoing TMA injury. Our study aimed at assessing the association of LowC3 and ESKD and whether this association reflects ongoing TMA. We enrolled all patients with biopsy-proven IgAN and followed-up patients until last visit, ESKD or death. Of the 56 patients included in the study, 12 (21%) presented low serum C3 (LowC3) at the time of renal biopsy. TMA was significantly more frequent in the LowC3 group [7/12 (58%) vs 9/44 (20%), p=0.02]. After adjusting for potential confounders, LowC3 was strongly associated with an increased hazard of ESKD (hazard ratio [HR]: 5.84 [95%CI: 1.69,20.15; P=0.005). The association was not affected by adjusting for TMA. The estimated overall proportion of the relation between C3 and ESKD mediated by TMA was low and not statistically significant. Our study provides evidence that C3 hypocomplementemia is associated with an increased risk of ESKD with mechanisms that are largely independent from TMA.
System Identification using Self-Adaptive Filtering Applied to Second-Order Gradient Materials
Authors: Kletschkowski Thomas
Published: February 2024

For many engineering applications it is sufficient to use the concept of simple materials. However, higher gradients of the kinematic variables are taken into account to model materials with internal length scales as well as to describe localization effects using gradient theories in finite plasticity or fluid mechanics. In many approaches length scale parameter have been introduced that are related to a specific micro structure. An alternative approach is possible, if a thermodynamically consistent framework is used for material modelling as shown in the present contribution. However, even if sophisticated and thermodynamically consistent material models can be established there are still not yet standard experiments to determine higher order material constants. In order to contribute to this ongoing discussion system identification based on the method of self-adaptive filtering is proposed in this paper. To evaluate the effectiveness of this approach it has been applied to second-order gradient materials considering longitudinal vibrations. Based on thermodynamically consistent models that have been solved numerically it has been possible to prove that system identification based on self-adaptive filtering can be used effectively for both narrow-band and broadband signals in the field of second-order gradient materials. It has also been found that the differences identified for simple materials and gradient materials allow for condition monitoring and detection of gradient effects in the material behavior.
Exploring the Sustainable Development of Historical Areas Based on Color Visualization: A Case Study of Shiquan Street in Suzhou, China
Authors: Mingrui Miao , LuHang Feng , Yao Wu , Rong Zhu , Dawei Xu
Published: February 2024

Currently, historical areas in China are facing issues of color authenticity and excessive commercialization. Colors, as an important element of historical areas, reflect their history and culture. However, there are some flaws in the existing research methods, so a more scientific and systematic method is needed to obtain accurate and objective color visualization results to promote the sustainable development of historical areas. In order to explore the methods and applications of visualizing the environmental color genes of historical areas, Shiquan Street in Suzhou, China was taken as the research object, ArcGIS 10.5 was used to obtain the street veiw photo samples, Matlab was used to summarize the architectural colors of the historical areas, and K-means clustering was used to generate the central color card of the historical areas, thus completing the color visualization of the historical areas, followed by further searching for the color patterns and central colors, so as to explore the strategies for sustainable development of historical areas. The various quantified color models of historical areas can explore the regional uniqueness and color locality of historical areas, which avoids problems such as homogenization of block colors, unclear styles and features, and excessive proportion of commercial colors caused by poor color guidance and control in the design related to historical areas, providing approaches to the research on the harmonious unity of environmental colors and features related to historical areas.
QUMA: Quantum Unified Medical Architecture using Blockchain
Authors: B Akoramurthy , Balasubramanian Surendiran
Published: February 2024

A substantial spike in the need for quality healthcare has resulted from people being more cognizant of health issues. With blockchain, healthcare providers may safely share patient information electronically, which is especially important given the sensitive nature of the data contained inside them. However, flaws in the current blockchain design have surfaced since the dawn of quantum computing systems. The study proposes a novel quantum inspired blockchain system (Qchain) and constructs a unique entangled quantum medical record (EQMR)system with an emphasis on privacy and security. This Qchain relies on entangled states to connect its blocks. Automated production of the chronology indicator reduces storage capacity requirements by connecting entangled BloQ (blocks with quantum properties) with controlled activities. One qubit is used to store the hash value of each block. A lot of information regarding quantum internet is included in the protocol for the entangled quantum medical record (EQMR). EQMR can be accessed in Medical Internet of Things (M-IoT) systems may be kept private and secure, and their where-abouts can be monitored in the event of an emergency. The protocol also uses quantum authentication in place of more conventional methods like encryption and digital signatures. Mathematical research shows that the quantum converged blockchain (QCB) is highly safe against attacks such as the External attack, Intercept-Measure-Repeat attack, and Entanglement-Measure attack. The reliability and auditability evaluations of the entangled BloQ, as well as the quantum circuit design for computing the hash value, are presented. There's also a comparison between the suggested approach and several other quantum blockchain designs.