bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring relationships between dating app use and sexual activity among young adult college students
Authors: Reeves Jaquetta M. , Griner Stacey B. , Johnson Kaeli C. , Jones Erick C. , Shangani Sylvia
Published: November 2024

Background

University campus clinics provide crucial sexual health services to students, including STI/HIV screening, testing, contraception, and counseling. These clinics are essential for engaging young adults who may lack access to primary care or have difficulty reaching off-campus services. Dating apps are widely used by young adults, yet there is a lack of studies on how they affect sexual practices. This study aimed to evaluate the use of dating apps, engagement in condomless sexual activity, and the prevalence of STIs among young adult college students in Northern Texas.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was conducted from August to December 2022 among undergraduate and graduate students aged 18–35 at a large university in Northern Texas. A total of 122 eligible participants completed the survey, which assessed demographics, sexual behaviors, dating app use, and STI/HIV testing practices. Descriptive statistics, bivariate analyses, and multivariate Poisson regression analyses with robust variance were performed to identify factors associated with dating app use and condomless sexual activity.

Results

Two-thirds of participants reported using dating apps. Significant differences were found between app users and non-users regarding demographic factors and unprotected sexual behaviors. Dating app users were more likely to report multiple sexual partners, inconsistent condom use, and a higher likelihood of engaging in unprotected sex. Poisson regression analysis indicated that app use was associated with residing in large urban areas, frequent use of campus STI/HIV screening services, and having multiple sexual partners (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The study highlights a significant association between dating app use and engagement in condomless sexual activity among college students. University health clinics play a critical role in providing sexual health services and can enhance their impact by expanding access to testing, contraception, and inclusive, sex-positive education. Future research should explore the long-term effects of dating app use on sexual health and evaluate the effectiveness of app-based interventions in promoting safer sexual practices.
Groundwater potential mapping in semi-arid region of Northern Nigeria by integrating analytic hierarchy process and GIS
Authors: Saidu Abdulmutallib A. , Aldrees Ali , Dan'azumi Salisu , Abba Sani I. , Hamza Salahu M.
Published: November 2024

Groundwater resource management in drylands, characterized by climate variability and population growth, is difficult. Exploration and exploitation of groundwater, due to inadequate surface water is very costly. This study employed the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and GIS to identify groundwater potential (GWP) areas in a semi-arid region of Nigeria. Land-use-land-cover, drainage density, slope, rainfall, static water level, soil, lithology, and aquifer were selected for GWP analysis. Parameter weights were determined using AHP and ranked based on their contribution to GWP by experts. The parameters were then integrated using the weighted overlay tool in ArcGIS 10.5 to produce a GWP map of the study area. Borehole yield data from 245 wells were collected to determine the model accuracy and model validation. Results classified the study area into very high GWP (1.9%), high GWP (8.8%), moderate GWP (62%), low GWP (20.70%) and very low GWP (6.6%). Areas with better GWP include Gurun, Dugol, Zago, Kumbo, Dukku, Doguwa, Riruwai, Dambazau, etc. Moderate GWP areas are widely spread across the state while areas with poor GWP include Sharawa, Kadewa, Koya, Dagar, Jigilawa, Galwanga, Yanganau, Kunchi, Tofa, Tsanyawa, etc. Validation of the AHP model with borehole yield data shows a correlation coefficient of 71.3% giving a good prediction. AHP and GIS can be used to successfully map GWP areas which could serve as an exploration guide for sustainable management of groundwater resources in semi-arid areas.
Mental preparation in runners: gender differences, competition levels, and psychological training effects on performance
Authors: Kelemen Bence , Tóth Renátó , Benczenleitner Ottó , Tóth László
Published: November 2024

Introduction

The present study aimed to investigate the mental and sports psychological preparation, as well as tactical preparation, of distance runners for competition. We examined whether there are differences based on gender, competition level and various race disciplines, as well as how mental preparation influences sports skills applicable in different competitive situations.

Methods

The sample consisted of 201 distance runners who completed the Sports Mental Training Questionnaire (SMTQ) alongside assessments of their sports psychology and race tactics.

Results

The results indicated that neither gender, competition level, nor race discipline had a significant impact on mental preparedness. However, women demonstrated notably higher scores in the use of self-talk as a mental technique. Additionally, participants who received training in sports psychology scored significantly higher across several mental skills, as well as on the overall mental preparedness score.

Discussion

This article validates the SMTQ and its association with mental readiness, as confirmatory factor analysis demonstrates adequate validity. Additionally, mental preparation was found to enhance performance and well-being among distance runners. Further research is needed to explore the impact of group interventions to broaden the reach of mental training programs.
The transmission routes of African swine fever during an outbreak in Serbia July–August 2023: African swine fever virus detections in environmental samples and insects
Authors: Vasić Ana , Milovanović Bojan , Glišić Dimitrije , Kavran Mihaela , Kureljušić Jasna , Živulj Aleksandar , Kureljušić Branislav , Milićević Vesna
Published: November 2024

African swine fever (ASF) is a highly contagious viral disease of domestic pigs and wild boar (Sus scrofa) caused by an arbovirus- African swine fever virus (ASFV), which is classified into the family Asfarviridae. Even though the main transmission route of ASFV is direct contact between animals and carcasses releasing ASFV into the environment, the role of other transmission routes such as via environmental contamination or insects remains in great part unclear. During an epidemic f ASF in Serbia in 2023, environmental samples (soil, feed, water and swabs from the pig barns), and insects [resulting in collection of adult and/or larval stages of non-biting flies (Diptera: Calliphoridae and Muscidae)] were collected in four locations in South Banat district of Serbia. To assess the possibility that insects carry the ASFV in infected courtyards, sticky fly traps and open Petri dishes containing meat mixed with humid cotton wads were offered in three locations during the five days of the experiment in the Belgrade area. Furthermore, to confirm the role of flies in ASF in mechanical transmission pathway in Serbia, L2 and L3 larvae of flies (Lucilia sericata Meigan, 1826; Stomoxys calcitrans Linnaeus, 1758) were collected from the pig carcasses from infected farms, bred to adults in the Laboratory and an ASFV spiked meat meal was placed into cages with three-day-old flies (n = 52) to estimate positivity of flies and duration of mechanical transmission of ASFV. The results from the environmental samples showed no positive ASFV DNA detection, the same was true for the samples from meat-based traps and sticky fly traps, while ASFV DNA was detected in three samples containing eggs, L1 and L3 fly larvae collected from carcasses and adult flies (L. sericata). In experimental conditions, only one S. calcitrans fly tested positive on day 1 post-infection. The results implicate the possible role of Lucilia sp. flies in the mechanical transmission of ASFV as well as S. calcitrans in Serbia during an outbreak, while ASFV DNA was not detected in environmental samples in this study.
Clinical and laboratory antenatal profile screening and its associate factors among pastoralist women in Northern Part of Kenya
Authors: Galgalo Dahabo Adi , Evans Kasmai Kiptulon , Kovács Kálmán András , Prémusz Viktória , Várnagy Ákos
Published: November 2024

Introduction

All pregnant women are encouraged to visit Antenatal Care (ANC) during pregnancy to ensure their wellbeing and that of their unborn baby. World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that all pregnant women attend antenatal clinics for care at least eight times during pregnancy. During antenatal care a series of essential tests are done for pregnant women, both clinical examination and laboratory screenings to detect potential issues which will guide clinicians on management. This study aims to investigate the clinical examination and laboratory screening profile results of pastoralist pregnant women and its associated factors during their first ANC visit in Marsabit County, Kenya.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted among pregnant women who attended Integrated Maternal Mobile (IMMH) outreach clinics for ANC in 10 mobile pastoralist communities. Data were collected on demographic information, clinical examination information, and laboratory profile screening outcomes. Frequency and percentages were used to describe the categorical variables and means and standard deviations were used to describe the continuous variables. Bivariate and multivariate analysis was conducted using IBM SPPS 27.0 following STROBE guidelines. The level of significance was set at p < 0.05.

Results

Data (N = 237) were extracted, the mean age was 26.62 ± 5.371, of which the majority were in the age group of 20–29, 212 (89.5%) were married 180 (75.9%) and multigravida, 27 (11.4%) visited ANC and 121 (51.1%) traveling more than 15 km to seek healthcare services. The mean weight was 55.56 ± 9.019 kg, mean blood pressure systolic was 118.94 ± 19.95 mmHg, and diastolic was 73.87 ± 13.46 mmHg. Out of all specimens processed and tested, 135 (57%) were anaemic with Hgb <11.5 g/dL), 6 (2.5%) had malaria, 8 (3.4%) were hepatitis B positive, and 21 (8.9%) showed intestinal infection. Those women who are illiterate displayed a 12-fold higher likelihood of becoming anaemic during pregnancy (OR 11.50, 95% CI: 2.47–53.47), and those who didn’t attend ANC also have a 5-fold higher likelihood of being anaemic (OR 5.43, 95% CI: 2.52–11.70).

Conclusion

Anaemia, hepatitis B, syphilis, malaria parasites, intestinal parasites, and urinary tract infections were observed among the study participants. Integrated outreach programs with laboratory screening and health education should be enhanced, and women within pastoralist communities should be empowered through health education.
Path Planning for Robots Combined with Zero-Shot and Hierarchical Reinforcement Learning in Novel Environments
Authors: Mei Liwei , Xu Pengjie
Published: November 2024

Path planning for robots based on reinforcement learning encounters challenges in integrating semantic information about environments into the training process. In unseen or complex environmental information, agents often perform sub-optimally and require more training time. In response to these challenges, this manuscript pioneers a framework integrating zero-shot learning combined with hierarchical reinforcement learning to enhance agent decision-making in complex environments. Zero-shot learning enables agents to infer correct actions for previously unseen objects or situations based on learned semantic associations. Subsequently, the path planning component utilizes hierarchical reinforcement learning with adaptive replay buffer, directed by the insights gained from zero-shot learning, to make decisions effectively. Two parts are trained separately, so zero-shot learning is available in different and unseen environments. Through simulation experiments, we compare the traditional hierarchical reinforcement learning method with the proposed method. The results prove that this structure can make full use of environmental information to generalize across unseen environments and plan collision-free paths.
Development of Electro-Mechanical Actuator for Wheel Steering of Railway Vehicles
Authors: Hur Hyun Moo , Seo Jung Won , Moon Kyung Ho , Choi Jong Hyun
Published: November 2024

We developed an electro-mechanical actuator for use as a steering device for railway vehicles. The specifications for a 50 kN-class electro-mechanical actuator capable of steering control for a sharp of a railway radius curve of up to 250 m, and with Direct Drive motor (DD motor) specifications, were derived as a power source to drive it. The DD motor and an electric mechanical steering actuator equipped with it were designed and a prototype was manufactured. As a result of testing laboratory tests on motor and actuator prototypes, all performance requirements were satisfied. We conducted a field test on the actuator prototype by installing it on a railway vehicle to verify the steering angle performance. The steering action of the actuator worked well when running in curved sections, and the steering angles measured for each curve were in line with the target steering angles. The mean error between the target steering angle and the measured steering angle was only 3.4%, indicating that the wheel steering action of the developed steering system was working very well. Therefore, the developed electro-mechanical actuator is expected to be fully utilized as a steering device for railway vehicles by meeting all the performance requirements of the steering system.
Looking Through the Entrepreneurial Kaleidoscope—Examining Stereotypes Against Commercial, Social, Environmental, and Community Entrepreneurs in Kenya and Germany
Authors: Kruse Philipp , Kamau Pauline Wangari
Published: November 2024

For the greater part of entrepreneurial history, entrepreneurship’s primary target was commercial, i.e., money generation for the entrepreneur and his or her stakeholders. However, starting in the 1980s, hybrid forms of entrepreneurship fusing the creation of non-financial value with entrepreneurial means have gained traction. Currently, several conceptually different forms, e.g., social, environmental, and community entrepreneurship, exist. Research yields various differences comparing commercial and hybrid entrepreneurship, particularly in the stereotypical perceptions of different entrepreneurs. Notwithstanding notable insights, entrepreneurial stereotype research suffers from three major shortcomings. First, stereotype differences are primarily examined by comparing commercial to hybrid entrepreneurs, neglecting stereotype differences inside hybrid entrepreneurship. Second, the scope of stereotypes investigated (e.g., warmth and competence) remains vague and lacks entrepreneurial specificity. Third, the robustness of entrepreneurial stereotypes under different institutional circumstances, e.g., in economy and culture, is unclear. The current study addresses these three shortcomings. Analyzing two samples from Kenya and Germany (Ntotal = 286) with repeated-measures analyses of co-variance, we find notable stereotype differences (i) inside hybrid entrepreneurs; (ii) regarding warmth, competence, and entrepreneurship-specific success indicators; and (iii) under different institutional circumstances. Despite acknowledgeable limitations, our work extends previous stereotype research by highlighting the necessity for a more fine-grained, specific, and inter-country perspective on entrepreneurial stereotypes.
Predicting Wheat Potential Yield in China Based on Eco-Evolutionary Optimality Principles
Authors: Tan Shen , Qiao Shengchao , Wang Han , Chang Sheng
Published: November 2024

Accurately predicting the wheat potential yield (PY) is crucial for enhancing agricultural management and improving resilience to climate change. However, most existing crop models for wheat PY rely on type-specific parameters that describe wheat traits, which often require calibration and, in turn, reduce prediction confidence when applied across different spatial or temporal scales. In this study, we integrated eco-evolutionary optimality (EEO) principles with a universal productivity model, the Pmodel, to propose a comprehensive full-chain method for predicting wheat PY. Using this approach, we forecasted wheat PY across China under typical shared socioeconomic pathways (SSPs). Our findings highlight the following: (1) Incorporating EEO theory improves PY prediction performance compared to current parameter-based crop models. (2) In the absence of phenological responses, rising atmospheric CO2 concentrations universally benefit wheat growth and PY, while increasing temperatures have predominantly negative effects across most regions. (3) Warmer temperatures expand the window for selecting sowing dates, leading to a national trend toward earlier sowing. (4) By simultaneously considering climate impacts on wheat growth and sowing dates, we predict that PY in China’s main producing regions will significantly increase from 2020 to 2060 and remain stable under SSP126. However, under SSP370, while there is no significant trend in PY during 2020–2060, increases are expected thereafter. These results provide valuable insights for policymakers navigating the complexities of climate change and optimizing wheat production to ensure food security.
Genetic Transformation of Common Beans (Phaseolus vulgaris): Achievements and Challenges
Authors: Moura Matheus da Costa , Pinheiro Patricia Valle , Vianello Rosana Pereira , Sousa Natália Lima de , Faria Josias Correa de , Aragão Francisco José Lima
Published: November 2024

Genetic transformation is a valuable tool for the development of plant varieties with desirable traits that are present in the species germplasm with low genetic variability, i.e., resistance to pests and diseases and nutritional improvements. Although transgenic and edited crops have been successfully obtained for many plant species, it remains difficult for common beans (Phaseolus vulgaris), due to their recalcitrance to in vitro regeneration. This review discusses various methods employed, such as Agrobacterium-mediated transformation, biolistic (particle bombardment), and hairy root systems, noting their respective efficiencies and limitations. While there has been progress, including the development of the first transgenic common bean cultivar approved for commercialization (Embrapa 5.1), the article emphasizes the need for improved protocols and techniques for more efficient genetic transformation. It also touches upon the potential of gene editing technologies like CRISPR/Cas9 in overcoming existing challenges and facilitating the development of resilient bean varieties.
Nondestructive Detection of Litchi Stem Borers Using Multi-Sensor Data Fusion
Authors: Zhao Zikun , Xu Sai , Lu Huazhong , Liang Xin , Feng Hongli , Li Wenjing
Published: November 2024

To enhance lychee quality assessment and address inconsistencies in post-harvest pest detection, this study presents a multi-source fusion approach combining hyperspectral imaging, X-ray imaging, and visible/near-infrared (Vis/NIR) spectroscopy. Traditional single-sensor methods are limited in detecting pest damage, particularly in lychees with complex skins, as they often fail to capture both external and internal fruit characteristics. By integrating multiple sensors, our approach overcomes these limitations, offering a more accurate and robust detection system. Significant differences were observed between pest-free and infested lychees. Pest-free lychees exhibited higher hardness, soluble sugars (11% higher in flesh, 7% higher in peel), vitamin C (50% higher in flesh, 2% higher in peel), polyphenols, anthocyanins, and ORAC values (26%, 9%, and 14% higher, respectively). The Vis/NIR data processed with SG+SNV+CARS yielded a partial least squares regression (PLSR) model with an R2 of 0.82, an RMSE of 0.18, and accuracy of 89.22%. The hyperspectral model, using SG+MSC+SPA, achieved an R2 of 0.69, an RMSE of 0.23, and 81.74% accuracy, while the X-ray method with support vector regression (SVR) reached an R2 of 0.69, an RMSE of 0.22, and 76.25% accuracy. Through feature-level fusion, Recursive Feature Elimination with Cross-Validation (RFECV), and dimensionality reduction using PCA, we optimized hyperparameters and developed a Random Forest model. This model achieved 92.39% accuracy in pest detection, outperforming the individual methods by 3.17%, 10.25%, and 16.14%, respectively. The multi-source fusion approach also improved the overall accuracy by 4.79%, highlighting the critical role of sensor fusion in enhancing pest detection and supporting the development of automated non-destructive systems for lychee stem borer detection.
Biochar Is Superior to Organic Substitution for Vegetable Production—A Revised Approach for Net Ecosystem Economic Benefit
Authors: Bi Ruiyu , Wang Bingxue , Xu Xintong , Dong Yubing , Jiao Ying , Xiong Zhengqin
Published: November 2024

Biochar amendment and substituting chemical fertilizers with organic manure (organic substitution) have been widely reported to improve intensive vegetable production. However, considering its high potential for reducing carbon and reactive nitrogen (Nr) footprints, very few comprehensive evaluations have been performed on the environmental and economic aspects of biochar amendment or organic substitution. In this study, the comprehensive environmental damage costs from carbon and Nr footprints, measured using the life cycle assessment (LCA) methodology, followed a cradle-to-gate approach, and the carbon storage benefits were incorporated into the newly constructed net ecosystem economic benefit (NEEB) assessment frame in addition to the conventional product income–input cost-benefit methods. One kilogram of harvested vegetables for carbon/Nr footprints and one hectare of cultivated land per crop for cost and benefit were adopted as functional units considering the multi-cropping characteristics for intensive vegetable production. Five fertilization treatments were included: no fertilizer (CK); synthetic fertilizer application (SN); biochar amendment (NB); organic substitution (NM); and a combination of biochar and organic substitution (NMB). These were investigated for five consecutive years of vegetable crop rotations in a typically intensified vegetable production region in China. Adopting the revised NEEB methodology, NB significantly reduced carbon footprint by 73.0% compared to no biochar addition treatment. Meanwhile, NB significantly increased the total benefits by 9.7% and reduced the environmental damages by 52.7% compared to NM, generating the highest NEEB, making it the most effective fertilization strategy among all treatments. It was 4.3% higher compared to NM, which was not significant, but significantly higher than SN and NMB, by 23.0% and 13.6%, respectively. This finding highlights the importance of considering carbon storage benefit for properly assessing NEEB, which is important for developing effective agricultural management strategies and promoting intensive vegetable production with a more sustainable approach.
Evaluating Anomaly Explanations Using Ground Truth
Authors: Antwarg Friedman Liat , Galed Chen , Rokach Lior , Shapira Bracha
Published: November 2024

The widespread use of machine and deep learning algorithms for anomaly detection has created a critical need for robust explanations that can identify the features contributing to anomalies. However, effective evaluation methodologies for anomaly explanations are currently lacking, especially those that compare the explanations against the true underlying causes, or ground truth. This paper aims to address this gap by introducing a rigorous, ground-truth-based framework for evaluating anomaly explanation methods, which enables the assessment of explanation correctness and robustness—key factors for actionable insights in anomaly detection. To achieve this, we present an innovative benchmark dataset of digital circuit truth tables with model-based anomalies, accompanied by local ground truth explanations. These explanations were generated using a novel algorithm designed to accurately identify influential features within each anomaly. Additionally, we propose an evaluation methodology based on correctness and robustness metrics, specifically tailored to quantify the reliability of anomaly explanations. This dataset and evaluation framework are publicly available to facilitate further research and standardize evaluation practices. Our experiments demonstrate the utility of this dataset and methodology by evaluating common model-agnostic explanation methods in an anomaly detection context. The results highlight the importance of ground-truth-based evaluation for reliable and interpretable anomaly explanations, advancing both theory and practical applications in explainable AI. This work establishes a foundation for rigorous, evidence-based assessments of anomaly explanations, fostering greater transparency and trust in AI-driven anomaly detection systems.
Characterization of Pseudomonas aeruginosa Isolated from Bovine Mastitis in Northern Jiangsu Province and Correlation to Drug Resistance and Biofilm Formability
Authors: Huang Yicai , Chen Pengqiang , Cao Hainan , Zhou Zheng , Xu Tianle
Published: November 2024

This study aimed to provide experimental support for the prevention and treatment of Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections and to elucidate the epidemiological distribution of resistance and virulence genes of Pseudomonas aeruginosa from mastitis in dairy cows in the northern part of Jiangsu Province and their relationship with the biofilm-forming ability of the strains. Mastitis presents a significant challenge within dairy farming, adversely impacting the health of dairy cows and precipitating substantial economic losses in milk production. In this study, Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) was isolated and identified from mastitis milk samples in Jiangsu Province, China. In order to characterize the isolates, multilocus sequence typing (MLST), drug resistance phenotypes, virulence genes, and biofilm formations were detected. The isolation and identification of pathogenic bacteria from 168 clinical mastitis milk samples using 16S rRNA and PCR revealed 63 strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which were determined to be highly homologous according to phylogenetic tree analysis. In addition, the MLST indicated five major ST types, namely ST277, ST450, ST571, ST641, and ST463. The susceptibility to 10 antimicrobials was determined, and it was found that 63 strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa did not have a strong resistance to the antimicrobials in general. However, there were differences in the phenotypes’ resistance to antimicrobials among the different ST types. It was also found that the more resistant the strains were to antimicrobials, the lower the carriage of virulence genes detected. The biofilm content was measured using the semi-quantitative crystal violet method. It was found that there were a few strains with medium or strong biofilm-forming abilities. However, the number of virulence genes carried by the 63 strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa was inversely proportional to the biofilm-forming ability. It was also found that there were significantly more Pseudomonas aeruginosa in the biofilm state than in the planktonic state and that strains with strong biofilm-forming abilities were more resistant to antimicrobials.
Sustainable Ecosystem Management Strategies for Tackling the Invasion of Blackchin Tilapia (Sarotherodon melanotheron) in Thailand: Guidelines and Considerations
Authors: Chaianunporn Thotsapol , Panthum Thitipong , Singchat Worapong , Chaianunporn Kanokporn , Suksavate Warong , Chaiyes Aingorn , Muangmai Narongrit , Marod Dokrak , Duengkae Prateep , Srikulnath Kornsorn
Published: November 2024

The invasion of blackchin tilapia in Thailand is a critical ecological threat affecting native biodiversity and destabilizing ecosystems. It is also resulting in significant ecological and socio-economic impacts. Originally from West Africa and introduced globally for aquaculture, blackchin tilapia thrive in Thailand’s brackish and freshwater ecosystems because of their high reproductive rates, environmental adaptability, and trophic plasticity. This review evaluates potential solutions for the invasion of blackchin tilapia in Thailand from a scientific perspective. The successful invasion of blackchin tilapia in Thailand can be attributed to several key factors, including late detection of the species, the delayed government response, the absence of effective management strategies, and the species’ high invasive potential. Given its wide distribution, large population size, and high reproductive rate, the eradication of the entire blackchin tilapia population is unlikely. Management efforts should focus on containment and impact reduction. Early detection and monitoring at the invasion front remain crucial to limit the species’ spread. Developing an online platform for tracking invasive species would aid these efforts. Public education and outreach are essential for promoting responsible behaviors for preventing further spread. Encouraging the utilization of blackchin tilapia as a food source and for commercial purposes could help suppress its population while supporting local economies. Biological control and other potentially harmful strategies should be avoided unless supported by strong scientific evidence to ensure minimal risks to ecosystems. Scientific research into controlling blackchin tilapia should be encouraged to develop suitable strategies, including using sterile triploid tilapia. The “polluter pays” policy should be implemented to cover the costs associated with invasive species. Coordinated efforts between researchers, policymakers, and the public are crucial for formulating effective management strategies to promote a balance between economic benefits and long-term environmental sustainability.
Oxidative Stress Induced by Air Pollution
Authors: Yoshida Yasuhiro
Published: November 2024

In 2021, the World Health Organization issued new guidelines on particulate matter (PM), including PM2 [...]
Berberine Mitigates Sepsis-Associated Acute Kidney Injury in Aged Rats by Preserving Mitochondrial Integrity and Inhibiting TLR4/NF-κB and NLRP3 Inflammasome Activations
Authors: Yubolphan Ruedeemars , Kobroob Anongporn , Kongkaew Apisek , Chiranthanut Natthakarn , Jinadang Natthanicha , Wongmekiat Orawan
Published: November 2024

Sepsis-associated acute kidney injury (SA-AKI) presents a severe challenge in the elderly due to increasing incidence, high mortality, and the lack of specific effective treatments. Exploring novel and secure preventive and/or therapeutic approaches is critical and urgent. Berberine (BBR), an isoquinoline alkaloid with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties, has shown beneficial effects in various kidney diseases. This study examined whether BBR could protect against SA-AKI in aged rats. Sepsis was induced in 26-month-old male Wistar rats by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP), either with or without BBR pretreatment. CLP induction led to SA-AKI, as indicated by elevated serum levels of malondialdehyde, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, urea nitrogen, creatinine, and neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), along with histopathological features of kidney damage. Key indicators of kidney oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, apoptosis, and activations of the Toll-like receptor 4/nuclear factor-kappa B (TLR4/NF-κB) signaling, including the nucleotide-binding domain, leucine-rich-containing family, and pyrin domain-containing-3 (NLRP3) inflammasome pathway, were also elevated following CLP induction. BBR pretreatment substantially mitigated these adverse effects, suggesting that it protects against SA-AKI in aged rats by reducing oxidative stress, preserving mitochondrial integrity, and inhibiting key inflammatory pathways. These findings highlight the potential of BBR as a therapeutic agent for managing SA-AKI in elderly populations.
Evidence of Oxidative Stress as a Mechanism of Pharmaceutical-Induced Toxicity in Amphibians
Authors: Cardoso-Vera Jesús Daniel , Islas-Flores Hariz , Pérez-Alvarez Itzayana , Díaz-Camal Nidya
Published: November 2024

Amphibians, which are essential components of ecosystems, are susceptible to pharmaceutical contamination, a phenomenon of increasing concern owing to the widespread consumption and detection of pharmaceutical compounds in environmental matrices. This review investigates oxidative stress (OS) as the primary mechanism of drug toxicity in these organisms. The evidence gathered reveals that various pharmaceuticals, from antibiotics to anesthetics, induce OS by altering biomarkers of oxidative damage and antioxidant defense. These findings underscore the deleterious effects of pharmaceuticals on amphibian health and development and emphasize the necessity of incorporating OS biomarkers into ecotoxicological risk assessments. Although further studies on diverse amphibian species, drug mixtures, and field studies are required, OS biomarkers offer valuable tools for identifying sublethal risks. Furthermore, the development of more refined OS biomarkers will facilitate the early detection of adverse effects, which are crucial for protecting amphibians and their ecosystems. Ultimately, this review calls for continued research and mitigation strategies to safeguard biodiversity from pharmaceutical contamination.
Effects of Toe Tube Training on Intrinsic Foot Muscle Strength and Reactive Strength Index in Runners: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Nakai Yuki , Takeshita Yasufumi
Published: November 2024

Long-distance runners are known to be at a high risk of lower limb disorders due to a decline in the function of the intrinsic foot muscles (IFMs). The aim of this study was to examine the effects of toe tube training using elastic tubes. First, a crossover study was conducted with 13 healthy adults in three conditions: tube training, short foot exercise, and control. Changes in the IFMs pre- and post-exercise were confirmed using ultrasound echo. Next, 19 university long-distance runners were randomly divided into two groups (tube training or short foot exercise) and underwent a five-week training intervention. The toe grip strength, toe gap strength, and reactive strength index were measured pre- and post-intervention. In a crossover study, the tube training and short foot exercise showed a significant interaction effect on the abductor hallucis brevis (F = 5.63, p = 0.010, partial η2 = 0.32) and flexor digitorum brevis (F = 15.29, p < 0.001, partial η2 = 0.56), confirming an immediate effect of tube training and short foot exercise. In an intervention study with runners, no interaction was observed but a main effect of time was found, with both groups showing significant improvements in toe grip strength (F = 25.64, p < 0.001, partial η2 = 0.60), toe gap strength (F = 11.26, p = 0.004, partial η2 = 0.40), and RSI (F = 4.81, p = 0.042, partial η2 = 0.22). Tube training may be an effective alternative for runners who find short foot exercise difficult and want to adjust the exercise load.
Investigating the Reliability of Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning Systems Utilized in Passenger Vehicles
Authors: Kale Sonali K. , Shelar Mahendra , Auti Shashikant , Ingle Prachi V. , Roy Anindita , Sonawane Chandrakant R. , Patil Rajkumar Bhimgonda
Published: November 2024

A Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system is often utilized in passenger vehicles to enhance the comfort of both the driver and the passengers. The reliability of an HVAC system refers to the probability that a component within the system will fulfil its intended function during a specified timeframe while operating according to the predefined operational and environmental conditions. Conducting a reliability analysis for the HVAC system of a passenger vehicle is crucial to ensure safety, comfort, cost-effectiveness, and a positive standing. A methodology for analyzing the reliability analysis of a HVAC system using field failure data were developed to identify the critical failure modes, components, and subsystems. A detailed Pareto analysis was applied at subsystem and failure mode levels in order to prioritize them accordingly to their failure frequency. The analysis showed that the A/C evaporator and blower front sides were observed to be the most critical subsystems, contributing to approximately 50% of all failures. Furthermore, the leakages at the joints and vibrations are the primary failure modes of the HVAC system. The Weibull++ software package (version 2021) was used to estimate the best-fit probability distributions for each subsystem and system reliability modelling using a Reliability Block Diagram. The results show that the exponential distribution fits well for several subsystem’s Time-To-Failure (TTF) data and show that the failures were random and due to external reasons.
Model Test on Thermomechanical Behavior of Deeply Buried Pipe Energy Pile Under Different Temperature Loads and Mechanical Loads
Authors: Yuan Jianghuai , Chen Zhi , Zhuang Yan , Liu Yongli
Published: November 2024

Deeply buried pipe energy pile (DBP-EP) offers the capability to harness geothermal energy from significantly deeper subterranean layers than those available inside buried pipe energy pile (IBP-EP). Despite its potential, there is a notable scarcity of research on the thermomechanical behavior of DBP-EP. This study meticulously observed the thermal variations in the soil surrounding the DBP-EP, the mechanical response of the pile itself, the earth pressure at the pile toe, and the displacement occurring at the pile’s top during the heating phase across various operational conditions. The findings show that for every 1 °C increase in inlet temperature, the temperature difference between the inlet and outlet increases by about 0.27 °C. The method of load application at the pile top during heating markedly influences the frictional resistance along the pile’s sides. Furthermore, When the pile top load rises from 0.26 kN to 0.78 kN, the observed vertical load at the pile foot decreases by 2.2–8.51%. This indicates that the increase in the pile top load reduces the downdrag effect on the sandy soil near the pile toe. This reduction subsequently diminishes the impact of vertical loads on the pile toe. Notably, after continuous operation for 8 h, the rate of increase in pile top displacement for DBP-EP shows a decline. Additionally, for every 1 °C rise in the inlet water temperature, the final displacement at the pile top diminishes by approximately 0.03‰D. This research endeavors to furnish a robust theoretical foundation for the structural design and practical engineering applications for DBP-EP.
Revolutionizing Palm Dates Harvesting with Multirotor Flying Vehicles
Authors: Omar Hanafy M. , Mukras Saad M. S.
Published: November 2024

This study addresses the challenges of traditional date palm harvesting, which is often labor-intensive and hazardous, by introducing an innovative solution utilizing multirotor flying vehicles (MRFVs). Unlike conventional methods such as hydraulic lifts and ground-based robotic manipulators, the proposed system integrates a quadrotor equipped with a winch and a suspended robotic arm with a precision saw. Controlled remotely via a mobile application, the quadrotor navigates to targeted branches on the date palm tree, where the robotic arm, guided by live video feedback from integrated cameras, accurately severs the branches. Extensive testing in a controlled environment demonstrates the system’s potential to significantly improve harvesting efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness. This approach offers a promising alternative to traditional harvesting methods, providing a scalable solution for date palm cultivation, particularly in regions with large-scale plantations. This work marks a significant advancement in the field of agricultural automation, offering a safer, more efficient method for harvesting date palms and contributing to the growing body of knowledge in automated farming technologies.
Quantitative Evaluation of Reinforced Concrete Slab Bridges Using a Novel Health Index and LSTM-Based Deterioration Models
Authors: Jeon Chi-Ho , Kwon Tae Ho , Kim Jaehwan , Jung Kyu-San , Park Ki-Tae
Published: November 2024

The Health Index (HI) serves as an essential tool for assessing the structural and functional condition of bridges, calculated based on the condition of structural components and the serviceability of the bridge. Its primary purpose is to identify the most deteriorated structures in an asset inventory and prioritize those in most urgent need of repair. However, a frequently cited issue is the lack of accurate and objective data, with the determination of the HI often being heavily reliant on expert opinions and engineering judgment. Furthermore, the HI systems used in most countries are dependent on the current state of bridge components, making it challenging to use as a proactive indicator for factors such as the rate of bridge aging. To address this issue, this study introduces a novel HI as a quantitative evaluation metric for reinforced concrete slab bridges and details the process of deriving the HI based on deterioration models. The deterioration models are derived by preprocessing the deterioration data of reinforced concrete (RC) slab bridges, wherein the relationship between time and deterioration is directly employed for training a long short-term memory model. The HI was validated through a case study involving six RC slab bridges, wherein accuracies of >93% were achieved, confirming that the proposed quantitative evaluation methodology can significantly contribute to maintenance decisions for bridges.
Building a DenseNet-Based Neural Network with Transformer and MBConv Blocks for Penile Cancer Classification
Authors: Lauande Marcos Gabriel Mendes , Braz Junior Geraldo , de Almeida João Dallyson Sousa , Silva Aristófanes Corrêa , Gil da Costa Rui Miguel , Teles Amanda Mara , da Silva Leandro Lima , Brito Haissa Oliveira , Vidal Flávia Castello Branco , do Vale João Guilherme Araújo , Rodrigues Junior José Ribamar Durand , Cunha António
Published: November 2024

Histopathological analysis is an essential exam for detecting various types of cancer. The process is traditionally time-consuming and laborious. Taking advantage of deep learning models, assisting the pathologist in the diagnosis process is possible. In this work, a study was carried out based on the DenseNet neural network. It consisted of changing its architecture through combinations of Transformer and MBConv blocks to investigate its impact on classifying histopathological images of penile cancer. Due to the limited number of samples in this dataset, pre-training is performed on another larger lung and colon cancer histopathological image dataset. Various combinations of these architectural components were systematically evaluated to compare their performance. The results indicate significant improvements in feature representation, demonstrating the effectiveness of these combined elements resulting in an F1-Score of up to 95.78%. Its diagnostic performance confirms the importance of deep learning techniques in men’s health.
Ecological and Health Risks from Trace Elements Contamination in Soils at the Rutile Bearing Area of Akonolinga, Cameroon
Authors: Sime Fayette Kitcha , Gondji Dieu Souffit , Rosianna Ilsa , Nugraha Eka Djatnika , Modibo Oumar Bobbo , Kranrod Chutima , Omori Yasutaka , Akata Naofumi , Hosoda Masahiro , Saïdou  , Tokonami Shinji
Published: November 2024

This study evaluates the concentrations of trace elements (TEs) in soils from the rutile deposit area of Akonolinga, Cameroon, and analyzes the associated health risks. A total of 25 samples were analyzed using flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS). The results show that TE concentrations follow the decreasing order Fe, Ti, Zr, Mn, Cr, V, Ba, Zn, Nb, Ni, Pb, Ga, Cu, Co, Y, Br, and Sn. Pollution indices and the Pearson correlation matrix reveal moderate correlations between Fe and several other TEs, indicating a common origin. Enrichment Factors show significant enrichment in Zr, Nb, and Ti, with notable enrichment in Cr and Co at certain sites. Although the Geo-Accumulation Index indicates no direct contamination and the overall ecological risk is low, the Contamination Factor reveals high levels for Cr, Nb, Ti, and Zr. The carcinogenic risk is moderate, while non-carcinogenic risks are high for children and considerable for adults. These research highlight the potential public health impacts in this mining region and provide essential baseline data for future environmental risk management.
Single-Task Joint Learning Model for an Online Multi-Object Tracking Framework
Authors: Wang Yuan-Kai , Pan Tung-Ming , Hu Chi-En
Published: November 2024

Multi-object tracking faces critical challenges, including occlusions, ID switches, and erroneous detection boxes, which significantly hinder tracking accuracy in complex environments. To address these issues, this study proposes a single-task joint learning (STJL) model integrated into an online multi-object tracking framework to enhance feature extraction and model robustness across diverse scenarios. Employing cross-dataset training, the model has improved generalization capabilities and can effectively handle various tracking conditions. A key innovation is the refined tracker initialization strategy that combines detection and tracklet confidence, which significantly reduces the number of false positives and ID switches. Additionally, the framework employs a combination of Mahalanobis and cosine distances to optimize data association, further improving tracking accuracy. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed model outperformed state-of-the-art methods on standard benchmark datasets, achieving superior MOTA and reduced ID switches, confirming its effectiveness in dynamic and occlusion-heavy environments.
Titanium Additive Manufacturing with Powder Bed Fusion: A Bibliometric Perspective
Authors: del Bosque Antonio , Fernández-Arias Pablo , Vergara Diego
Published: November 2024

Titanium additive manufacturing using powder bed fusion technologies has seen notable growth since 2015, particularly in high-performance sectors such as aerospace, biomedical, and automotive industries. This study focuses on key areas like metallic powder manipulation, laser optimization, and process control, with selective laser melting emerging as the dominant technique over electron beam melting. Advancements in powder materials and laser systems have been crucial to improving the efficiency and quality of the process, particularly in enhancing microstructure and porosity control. The bibliometric analysis reveals significant global interest, driven mainly by collaborations among institutions in Germany, the United States, and China, where further international cooperation is required to scale titanium additive manufacturing. However, additional research is essential to address challenges in scalability, sustainability, and post-processing, thus expanding the applications of PBF technology across industries. In conclusion, titanium processing via powder bed fusion is poised to make substantial contributions to the future of manufacturing, provided current challenges are addressed through innovation and enhanced global collaboration.