bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Producing Higher Value Wool through a Transition from Romney to Merino Crossbred: Constraining Sheep Feed Demand
Authors: Farrell Lydia J. , Tozer Peter R. , Kenyon Paul R. , Cranston Lydia M. , Ramilan Thiagarajah
Published: September 2021

A strategy to increase wool income for coarse wool (fibre diameter > 30 µm) producers through a transition to higher value medium wool (fibre diameter between 25 and 29 µm) was identified, with previous analyses allowing sheep feed demand increases to impractical levels during the transition period. This study modelled a whole flock transition from Romney breed to a ¾Merino¼Romney flock through crossbreeding with Merino sires, with sheep feed demand constrained between 55% and 65% of total grown feed. Transition was complete after 12 years, and the final ¾M¼R flock had higher COS (cash operating surplus; NZD 516/ha) than the base Romney flock (NZD 390/ha). Net present value analyses showed the transition always had an economic benefit (up to 13% higher) over the Romney flock. In a sensitivity analysis with sheep and wool sale prices changed by ±10%, higher sheep sale prices reduced the economic benefit of the transition (NPV up to 11% higher) over the Romney flock, as sheep sales comprised a higher proportion of income for the Romney flock, and higher wool sale prices increased the benefit (NPV up to 15% higher) of the transition to ¾M¼R over the Romney flock. This study demonstrated a whole flock transition from Romney to ¾M¼R breed was profitable and achievable without large variation in sheep feed demand, although the scale of benefit compared to maintaining a Romney flock was determined by changes in sheep and wool sale prices.
Diagnostic Procedures to Detect Xylella fastidiosa in Nursery Stocks and Consignments of Plants for Planting
Authors: Loconsole Giuliana , Zicca Stefania , Manco Lorenzo , El Hatib Oumaima , Altamura Giuseppe , Potere Oriana , Elicio Vito , Valentini Franco , Boscia Donato , Saponari Maria
Published: September 2021

Preventive measures for infectious diseases caused by the harmful plant pathogenic bacterium Xylella fastidiosa include inspections and diagnostic tests on imported consignments of plants and in nurseries. Currently, mandatory checks on plant propagating materials are enforced in Europe (EU regulation 2021/1201) for the most susceptible species found in the European outbreaks, and prior to move propagating materials of the “specified plants” from nurseries located in the so-called “demarcated areas”. These requirements imply sampling and laboratory manipulation of a large number of samples, nevertheless plants to be sampled are often small size potted plants. While statistically based methods for inspections and sampling are available, namely the International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures n. 31, validated laboratory procedures to test large volumes of plant materials are lacking. In this work, we optimized two distinct protocols to detect X. fastidiosa in pooled plant materials collected from lots of plants for planting. The first protocol was designed to test in pool few samples (up to 8), the second to process through a single diagnostic test plant material from a high number of samples (up to 225). Accuracy of the newly developed protocols was assessed by pooling at different ratio tissues collected from healthy and infected Polygala myrtifolia, Nerium oleander, Olea europaea, Lavandula stoechas and Prunus avium. Moreover, tests included pools of plantlets of Brassicaceae and Solanaceae artificially inoculated with stem portions of infected periwinkle. Using both protocols, high diagnostic sensitivity values were generated using serological and molecular tests, with qPCR consistently yielding the highest performance values, regardless the host species tested.
Application of Fuzzy Delphi Technique Approach in Sustainable Inheritance of Rural Cooking Techniques and Innovative Business Strategies Modeling
Authors: Lee Ching-Sung , Chen Yen-Cheng , Tsui Pei-Ling , Che Cheng-Wei , Chiang Ming-Chen
Published: September 2021

Transformation and sustainable development must be undertaken in accordance with the trends of the times, which presents challenges to rural areas worldwide. In addition to preserving rural food specialties and presenting them in new ways to attract consumers, these areas must link farmers’ production, processing, sales, and management. It is imperative to sustainably pass on rural foods and theircooking techniques and integrate them into innovative business strategies so that delicious rural foods can be sold on the consumer market, boosting rural economies and their development. The main objective of this research was to conduct indicator modeling and empirical analysis for the sustainable inheritance of Taiwan’s rural cooking techniques and the development of innovative marketing strategies. The Fuzzy Delphi Technique was used as the main research method to select agricultural experts and rural household economy organizations for indicator modeling and empirical analysis. The results of the research indicate that agricultural experts believe that market operation is the primary developmental focus of cultural inheritance and innovation, whereas household economy organizations believe that education, training, promotion, and development are the primary developmental focuses. The greatest contribution and innovation of this research are the findings that culinary education and training, organized by the farmers’ association, can sustainably pass on traditional rural cooking techniques, and the process of incorporating local ingredients into commercial gourmet food should also consider aspects of the economic and marketing strategies of market operation, facilitating the sustainable inheritance of unique, traditional, local, and rural food culture.
Nutrition and Digestive Physiology of the Broiler Chick: State of the Art and Outlook
Authors: Ravindran Velmurugu , Abdollahi M. Reza
Published: September 2021

Because the intestine is the primary nutrient supply organ, early development of digestive function in newly hatched chick will enable it to better utilize nutrients, grow efficiently, and achieve the genetic potential of contemporary broilers. Published data on the growth and digestive function of the gastrointestinal tract in neonatal poultry were reviewed. Several potential strategies to improve digestive tract growth and function in newly hatched chick are available and the options include breeder nutrition, in ovo feeding, early access to feed and water, special pre-starter diets, judicious use of feed additives, and early programming.
Pharmacokinetic Parameters and Tissue Withdrawal Intervals for Sheep Administered Multiple Oral Doses of Meloxicam
Authors: Depenbrock Sarah , Urbano Tara , Ziegler Jessie , Wetzlich Scott , Clapham Maaike O. , Tell Lisa A.
Published: September 2021

Meloxicam is an anti-inflammatory drug used to treat pain and inflammation in ruminants including sheep, and pharmacokinetic studies are needed to protect the food supply from drug residues after use in food-producing animals. This study estimated plasma pharmacokinetic parameters and meat withdrawal intervals (WDI) for market sheep after multiple daily oral doses of meloxicam. Single and multiple dose plasma pharmacokinetic studies, a multi-dose tissue depletion study, and a follow-up study to investigate if events prior to slaughter were associated with differences in plasma meloxicam concentrations, all using sample data collected after completion of dosing, were completed. Using regulatory agency methods for calculating withdrawal times, an estimated WDI of at least 10 d following the last dose is recommended for market lambs treated with 10 daily oral 1 mg/kg doses of meloxicam tablets suspended in water. The effect of events surrounding slaughter on plasma meloxicam concentrations in lambs is unknown but should be considered if plasma samples are obtained immediately prior to or during the slaughter process and used for pharmacokinetic investigations.
Diurnal Ruminal pH and Temperature Patterns of Steers Fed Corn or Barley-Based Finishing Diets
Authors: DelCurto-Wyffels Hannah M. , Dafoe Julia M. , Parsons Cory T. , Boss Darrin L. , DelCurto Timothy , Wyffels Samuel A. , Van Emon Megan L. , Bowman Janice G. P.
Published: September 2021

This study evaluated the effects of corn or barley finishing diets on ruminal pH and temperature and their relationship to feed intake events using continuous reticulorumen monitoring of feedlot steers. Average daily ruminal pH and temperature were not impacted (p ≥ 0.17) by diet. However, diet did affect daily variation of ruminal pH and temperature (p < 0.01). Average hourly ruminal pH displayed a diet by hour post-feeding interaction (p < 0.01), where barley-fed steers had greater (p < 0.01) ruminal pH than corn-fed steers at 0, 1, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22 and 23 h post feeding, but had lower (p ≤ 0.05) ruminal pH than corn-fed steers at 6, 7, and 8 h post-feeding. Variation in ruminal pH hour post-feeding also displayed a diet by hour post-feeding interaction (p < 0.01), where barley-fed steers had greater (p ≤ 0.03) variation in ruminal pH at hours 1–17 post-feeding but did not differ (p ≥ 0.16) at 0, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22 and 23 h post-feeding. Additionally, average hourly ruminal temperature exhibited a diet by hour post-feeding interaction (p < 0.01). In summary, basal grain interacted with time post-feeding influencing ruminal pH and temperature in feedlot steers.
Effect of Insect Live Larvae as Environmental Enrichment on Poultry Gut Health: Gut Mucin Composition, Microbiota and Local Immune Response Evaluation
Authors: Colombino Elena , Biasato Ilaria , Ferrocino Ilario , Bellezza Oddon Sara , Caimi Christian , Gariglio Marta , Dabbou Sihem , Caramori Marta , Battisti Elena , Zanet Stefania , Ferroglio Ezio , Cocolin Luca , Gasco Laura , Schiavone Achille , Capucchio Maria Teresa
Published: September 2021

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of Hermetia illucens (HI) and Tenebrio molitor (TM) live larvae as environmental enrichment on the mucin composition, local immune response and microbiota of broilers. A total of 180 four-day-old male broiler chickens (Ross 308) were randomly allotted to three dietary treatments (six replicates/treatment; ten animals/replicate): (i) control (C); (ii) C+HI; (iii) C+TM. Live larvae were distributed based on 5% of the expected daily feed intake. At slaughter (39 days of age), samples of duodenum, jejunum and ileum (twelve animals/diet) were submitted to mucin histochemical evaluation. Expression of MUC-2 and cytokines was evaluated by rt-qPCR in jejunum. Mucin staining intensity was not influenced by diet (p > 0.05); however, this varied depending on the intestinal segment (p < 0.001). No significant differences were recorded for IL-4, IL-6 TNF-α, MUC-2 and INF-γ gene expression in jejunum, while IL-2 was lower in the TM group compared to HI and C (p = 0.044). Caecal microbiota showed higher abundance of Clostridium, Saccharibacteria and Victivallaceae in the HI group, while Collinsella was higher in the TM group. The results suggested that live insect larvae did not impair mucin composition or local immune response, and can slightly improve caecal microbiota by enhancing a minor fraction of short chain fatty acid-producing taxa.
Quality of Death in Fighting Bulls during Bullfights: Neurobiology and Physiological Responses
Authors: Mota-Rojas Daniel , Napolitano Fabio , Strappini Ana , Orihuela Agustín , Martínez-Burnes Julio , Hernández-Ávalos Ismael , Mora-Medina Patricia , Velarde Antonio
Published: September 2021

During bullfights, bulls undergo physiometabolic responses such as glycolysis, anaerobic reactions, cellular oedema, splenic contraction, and hypovolemic shock. The objective of this review article is to present the current knowledge on the factors that cause stress in fighting bulls during bullfights, including their dying process, by discussing the neurobiology and their physiological responses. The literature shows that biochemical imbalances occur during bullfights, including hypercalcaemia, hypermagnesaemia, hyperphosphataemia, hyperlactataemia, and hyperglycaemia, associated with increased endogenous cortisol and catecholamine levels. Creatine kinase, citrate synthase, and lactate dehydrogenase levels also increase, coupled with decreases in pH, blood bicarbonate levels, excess base, partial oxygen pressure, and oxygen saturation. The intense exercise also causes a marked decrease of glycogen in type I and II muscle fibres that can produce myoglobinuria and muscular necrosis. Other observations suggest the presence of osteochondrosis. The existing information allows us to conclude that during bullfights, bulls face energy and metabolic demands due to the high intensity and duration of the exercise performed, together with muscular injuries, physiological changes, and high enzyme concentrations. In addition, the final stage of the bullfight causes a slow dying process for an animal that is sentient and conscious of its surroundings.
Community Use of Antibiotics in Turkey: The Role of Knowledge, Beliefs, Attitudes, and Health Anxiety
Authors: Gaygısız Ümmügülsüm , Lajunen Timo , Gaygısız Esma
Published: September 2021

Turkey has been among the leading countries in antibiotic consumption. As a result of the 4-year National Action Plan for Rational Drug Use, antibiotic prescriptions had declined from 34.9% in 2011 to 24.6% in 2018. However, self-medication with antibiotics without prescription is common, which is not reflected in official statistics. The present study aims at investigating antibiotic use in the community and the factors related to it. A web-based survey was conducted among 945 Turkish-speaking respondents (61.3% female). The questionnaire included questions about antibiotic use for different illnesses, ways to obtain and handle leftover antibiotics, knowledge, beliefs of the antibiotic effectiveness, attitudes, health anxiety, and background factors. According to the results, 34.2% of the sample had self-medicated themselves with antibiotics without a valid prescription. The most common way to self-medicate was to use leftover antibiotics. While 80.4% knew that antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections, 51.4% thought that antibiotics are effective for viral diseases. The most important predictor of antibiotic use frequency was the belief in their efficiency for various illnesses and symptoms, followed by negative attitudes to antibiotics, health anxiety, knowledge level, positive attitudes, and health status. The results underline the importance of targeting misbeliefs about antibiotics in future campaigns.
MG53 Preserves Neuromuscular Junction Integrity and Alleviates ALS Disease Progression
Authors: Yi Jianxun , Li Ang , Li Xuejun , Park Kiho , Zhou Xinyu , Yi Frank , Xiao Yajuan , Yoon Dosuk , Tan Tao , Ostrow Lyle W. , Ma Jianjie , Zhou Jingsong
Published: September 2021

Respiratory failure from progressive respiratory muscle weakness is the most common cause of death in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Defects in neuromuscular junctions (NMJs) and progressive NMJ loss occur at early stages, thus stabilizing and preserving NMJs represents a potential therapeutic strategy to slow ALS disease progression. Here we demonstrate that NMJ damage is repaired by MG53, an intrinsic muscle protein involved in plasma membrane repair. Compromised diaphragm muscle membrane repair and NMJ integrity are early pathological events in ALS. Diaphragm muscles from ALS mouse models show increased susceptibility to injury and intracellular MG53 aggregation, which is also a hallmark of human muscle samples from ALS patients. We show that systemic administration of recombinant human MG53 protein in ALS mice protects against injury to diaphragm muscle, preserves NMJ integrity, and slows ALS disease progression. As MG53 is present in circulation in rodents and humans under physiological conditions, our findings provide proof-of-concept data supporting MG53 as a potentially safe and effective therapy to mitigate ALS progression.
The Natural Products Targeting on Allergic Rhinitis: From Traditional Medicine to Modern Drug Discovery
Authors: Lim Suhyun , Jeong Iwah , Cho Jonghyeok , Shin Chaewon , Kim Kwan-Il , Shim Bum-Sang , Ko Seong-Gyu , Kim Bonglee
Published: September 2021

More than 500 million people suffer from allergic rhinitis (AR) in the world. Current treatments include oral antihistamines and intranasal corticosteroids; however, they often cause side effects and are unsuitable for long-term exposure. Natural products could work as a feasible alternative, and this study aimed to review the efficacies and mechanisms of natural substances in AR therapies by examining previous literature. Fifty-seven studies were collected and classified into plants, fungi, and minerals decoction; clinical trials were organized separately. The majority of the natural products showed their efficacies by two mechanisms: anti-inflammation regulating diverse mediators and anti-oxidation controlling the activity of nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NFκB) pathway stimulated by reactive oxygen species (ROS). The main AR factors modified by natural products included interleukin (IL)-4, IL-5, IL-13, interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2), and phospho-ERK1/2 (p-ERK1/2). Although further studies are required to verify their efficacies and safeties, natural products can significantly contribute to the treatment of AR.
Dimeric Histidine as a Novel Free Radical Scavenger Alleviates Non-Alcoholic Liver Injury
Authors: Zhao Zizhen , Fu Chen , Zhang Yuping , Fu Ailing
Published: September 2021

Non-alcoholic liver injury (NLI) is a common disease worldwide. Since free radical damage in the liver is a crucial initiator leading to diseases, scavenging excess free radicals has become an essential therapeutic strategy. To enhance the antioxidant capacity of histidine, we synthesized a protonated dimeric histidine, H-bihistidine, and investigated its anti-free radical potential in several free-radical-induced NLI. Results showed that H-bihistidine could strongly scavenge free radicals caused by H2O2, fatty acid, and CCl4, respectively, and recover cell viability in cultured hepatocytes. In the animal model of nonalcoholic fatty liver injury caused by high-fat diet, H-bihistidine reduced the contents of transaminases and lipids in serum, eliminated the liver’s fat accumulation, and decreased the oxidative damage. Moreover, H-bihistidine could rescue CCl4-induced liver injury and recover energy supply through scavenging free radicals. Moreover, liver fibrosis prepared by high-fat diet and CCl4 administration was significantly alleviated after H-bihistidine treatment. This study suggests a novel nonenzymatic free radical scavenger against NLI and, potentially, other free-radical-induced diseases.
Recycling Construction and Demolition Residues in Clay Bricks
Authors: Zanelli Chiara , Marrocchino Elena , Guarini Guia , Toffano Alice , Vaccaro Carmela , Dondi Michele
Published: September 2021

In recent years, the management of construction and demolition residues (CDRs) has become a major challenge for the construction industry due to the increasing volume of waste produced and its associated environmental impact. The aim of this article is to assess the effect of fine-grained fractions (<0.125 mm–0.6–0.125 mm) of construction and demolition residues, obtained by industrial sorting in a CDR processing plant in Rovigo (Italy), on the technological behavior and technical performance of clay bricks. Simulating the brickmaking process on a laboratory scale, it was appraised whether the CDR additions determined any change in the main properties of both fired and unfired bricks, taking a CDR-free brick body as a reference. The results indicated that the use of CDR is technologically feasible. It is possible to obtain, through proper crushing and sorting operations, grain-sized fractions with quite homogenous chemical and mineralogical composition. The residues did affect the compositional properties, porosity and water absorption of the clay bricks. Nevertheless, the characterization of the residual-added semi-finished and fired products highlighted their good technological and mechanical properties, which allowed them to provide performances similar to those of standard bricks manufactured with raw natural materials.
Assessing the Impact of Chrysene-Sorbed Polystyrene Microplastics on Different Life Stages of the Mediterranean Mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis
Authors: Capolupo Marco , Rombolà Alessandro Girolamo , Sharmin Sadia , Valbonesi Paola , Fabbri Daniele , Fabbri Elena
Published: September 2021

The sorption of organic pollutants to marine plastic litter may pose risks to marine organisms, notably for what concerns their intake and transfer through microplastic (MP) ingestion. This study investigated the effects of polystyrene MP loaded with chrysene (CHR) on early-stage and physiological endpoints measured in the Mediterranean mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis. The same concentrations of virgin microplastics (MP) and MP loaded with 10.8 µg CHR/mg (CHR-MP) were administered to mussel gametes/embryos (25 × 103 items/mL) and adults (5⋅× 103 items/L); further treatments included 0.1 mg/L of freely dissolved CHR and a second CHR concentration corresponding to that vehiculated by CHR-MP during exposure (3.78 µg/L and 0.73 ng/L for gamete/embryos and adults, respectively). None of the treatments affected gamete fertilization, while 0.1 mg/L CHR induced embryotoxicity. In adults, CHR-MP and MP similarly affected lysosomal membrane stability and neutral lipids and induced slight effects on oxidative stress endpoints. CHR affected tested endpoints only at 0.1 mg/L, with lysosomal, oxidative stress and neurotoxicity biomarkers generally showing greater alterations than those induced by CHR-MP and MP. This study shows that the CHR sorption on MP does not alter the impact of virgin MP on mussels and may pose limited risks compared to other routes of exposure.
Effect of Biomimetic Surface Geometry, Soil Texture, and Soil Moisture Content on the Drag Force of Soil-Touching Parts
Authors: Salem Abouelnadar El. , Wang Hongchang , Gao Yuan , Zha Xiantao , Abdeen Mohamed Anwer , Zhang Guozhong
Published: September 2021

Soil adhesion is a major problem for agricultural machinery, especially in sticky soils within the plastic range. One promising and practical way to minimize soil–tool adhesion is to modify the surface geometry to one inspired by soil-burrowing animals. In this study, 27 domed discs were fabricated according to an L27 (33) Taguchi orthogonal array and tested to determine the optimal dimensions of domed surfaces to reduce drag force. The optimized domed disc was tested in a soil bin under different soil conditions (soil texture: silty loam and sandy clay loam; soil moisture content: 23%, 30%, and 37%). All trials included a flat disc (without a dome pattern) as a control. The optimal dimensions of domed surfaces to generate the lowest possible drag force under the present experimental conditions were explored based on signal-to-noise ratio analysis. The optimal levels of control parameters were found at a surface coverage ratio of 60%, dome height of 5 mm, and dome base diameter of 20 mm. Statistics revealed that the dome height-to-diameter ratio and disc coverage ratio are crucial factors that influence the drag force of domed surfaces. In contrast, the dome base diameter had a limited influence on drag force. In all treatments, the drag force of the optimized domed disc was less than that of the flat disc (by about 9% to 25%, according to soil conditions). Accordingly, it can be concluded that adequately designed domed surfaces could significantly reduce the drag force in sticky soil compared to their flat counterparts.
Energy Efficiency of Inland Waterways Transport for Agriculture: The Ukraine Case Study
Authors: Bazaluk Oleg , Havrysh Valerii , Nitsenko Vitalii
Published: September 2021

In Ukraine, there has been an increase in agricultural production. The availability of river basins and seaports contributes to the use of inland shipping. However, there is a lack of understanding of how to reduce the energy consumption of inland shipping. We assume the hypothesis that the energy efficiency of inland shipping is much higher than it is technically possible. The purpose of this study is to identify perspective energy-saving technologies for IWT. We use statistical information to determine the export potential and to reveal the status of inland navigation. Traction efficiency, theoretical and actual specific fuel consumption were used as indicators to determine the energy efficiency. The main results are as follows. We have found the grain and sunflower seed production in the Dnieper Basin (Ukraine). Their shares range from 34.75 to 50.92% of national production. Therefore, there is a significant flow of products for inland shipping. The present status of inland waterways transport has been analyzed. The main novelty of this study is the finding of actual and theoretical technical specific energy consumption. It is revealed that actual specific energy consumption is five times higher compared to the theoretical one. Self-propelled vessels are inferior in energy efficiency to towing barges. The energy efficiency of inland waterways transport has been compared to railways and road freight transport. Transport management was identified as the more effective tool to improve the energy efficiency of inland shipping.
Effects of Consecutive Matches on Isometric Hamstring Strength, Flexibility Values and Neuromuscular Performance in Female Field Hockey Players. A Prospective, Observational Study
Authors: Sánchez-Migallón Violeta , Moreno-Pérez Víctor , López-Samanes Alvaro , Fernández-Ruiz Vicente , Gaos Sofía , Díaz-Maroto José Bernardo , van den Tillaar Roland , Navandar Archit
Published: September 2021

This study aimed to analyze the effects of match congestion in a short period on isometric hamstring strength and hip/ankle range of motion in female field hockey players. Fourteen professional female field hockey players (age: 20.0 ± 5.4 years) played two consecutive hockey matches in 24 h and maximal isometric hamstring strength and hip and ankle range of motion were obtained before and after the first match, after the second match, and 48 h after the second match. Furthermore, locomotion patterns and ratings of perceived exertion were recorded during hockey competitions. Isometric knee flexion strength showed significantly higher values 48 h after the second match for the non-dominant limb (p ≤ 0.005, ηp2 = 0.19), while no differences were reported in the dominant limb (p = 0.370, ηp2 = 0.05). In addition, no differences were reported in the range-of-motion (ROM) variables such as the straight leg raise test or ankle dorsiflexion test (p = 0.075–0.217, ηp2 = 0.01–0.03). The countermovement jump height steadily increased over the matches except between post-match 2 and 48 h after post-match 2 (p < 0.001, η2 = 0.382). Two consecutive official league field hockey matches played within 24 h did not have a negative effect on lower-limb risk factors (strength, hip and ankle ranges of motion, and ratings of perceived exertion) in female field hockey players directly, but they improved 48 h after the matches. This could indicate that 48 h recovery period following matches might be ideal for female field hockey players.
Biomechanical Analysis of the Spine in Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperostosis: Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Nishida Norihiro , Jiang Fei , Ohgi Junji , Fuchida Masahiro , Kitazumi Rei , Yamamura Yuto , Tome Rui , Imajo Yasuaki , Suzuki Hidenori , Funaba Masahiro , Chen Xian , Sakai Takashi
Published: September 2021

Patients with diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH) develop fractures of the vertebral bodies, even in minor trauma, because of the loss of flexibility, which causes difficulties in fusing vertebrae; therefore, the diagnosis of spine injuries may be delayed. We used the three-dimensional finite element method to add data on ossification to the healthy vertebral model in order to investigate how stress in intervertebral discs changes with bone shape and whether these changes present any risk factors. A healthy spine model and a DISH flat model (T8–sacrum) were generated from medical images. As an ossified hypertrophic model, T11–T12 was cross-linked with hypertrophic ossification, and hypertrophy was found to be 5 and 10 mm. An ossifying hypertrophic groove model (5 and 10 mm) was created at T11–T12 and T11–L1. A groove was created at the center of T12, and the radius of curvature of the groove was set to 1 and 2.5 mm. An extension force and flexion force were applied to the upper part of T8, assuming that external forces in the direction of flexion and extension were applied to the spine. Stresses were greater in the DISH flat model than in the healthy model. In the hypertrophic ossification model, the stress on the vertebral body was similar to greater ossification in extension and flexion. In the ossified hypertrophic groove model, the stress at the center of the groove increased. In DISH, vertebrae are more susceptible to stress. Furthermore, depending on the morphology of ossification, stresses on the vertebrae and intervertebral discs differed even with similar loads. An examination of ossification geometry may help surgeons decide the thoracolumbar spine’s stress elevated position in patients with DISH, thereby contributing to the understanding of the pathogenesis of pain.
Copper Strip Surface Defect Detection Model Based on Deep Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Xu Yanghuan , Wang Dongcheng , Duan Bowei , Yu Huaxin , Liu Hongmin
Published: September 2021

Surface defect automatic detection has great significance for copper strip production. The traditional machine vision for surface defect automatic detection of copper strip needs artificial feature design, which has a long cycle, and poor ability of versatility and robustness. However, deep learning can effectively solve these problems. Therefore, based on the deep convolution neural network and the transfer learning strategy, an intelligent recognition model of surface defects of copper strip is established in this paper. Firstly, the defects were classified in accordance with the mechanism and morphology, and the surface defect dataset of copper strip was established by comprehensively adopting image acquisition and image augmentation. Then, a two-class discrimination model was established to achieve the accurate discrimination of perfect and defect images. On this basis, four CNN models were adopted for the recognition of defect images. Among these models, the EfficientNet model through transfer learning strategy had the best comprehensive performance with a recognition accuracy rate of 93.05%. Finally, the interpretability and deficiency of the model were analysed by the class activation map and confusion matrix, which point toward the direction of further optimization for future research.
Age- and Sex-Adjusted Reference Intervals in Tear Cytokine Levels in Healthy Subjects
Authors: Fernández Itziar , Enríquez-de-Salamanca Amalia , Portero Alejandro , García-Vázquez Carmen , Calonge Margarita , Herreras José M.
Published: September 2021

Alterations in tear cytokine levels have been associated with various ocular disorders as compared to those in healthy subjects. However, age and sex are not always considered in these comparisons. In this study we aimed to establish age and sex reference intervals (RIs) for tear cytokine levels in healthy people. Tear samples were taken from 75 males and 82 females, aged 18–88 years, and tear cytokine levels were determined. Age- and sex-adjusted RIs for epidermal growth factor (EGF), fractalkine, interleukin (IL)-1 receptor antagonist (RA), IL-7, IL-8, interferon inducible protein (IP)-10, monocyte chemotactic protein (MCP)-1, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) tear cytokine levels in a healthy sample were established using generalized additive for location, scale and shape (GAMLSS) models. RIs were tested in two external samples: a validation sample of 40 individuals with normal results at four Dry Eye Disease (DED) clinical diagnostic tests (OSDI, T-BUT, corneal staining and Schirmer test); and a utility sample of 13 severe DED cases. IL-1RA, IL-8, IP-10, and MCP-1 levels showed a positive association with age, while EGF was negatively correlated. IL-7 concentration increased up to 40 years and again after 70 years, observing a quasi-linear decrease between them. For VEGF, higher levels were observed in the middle-aged range. Regarding sex-influence, fractalkine tear levels were higher in men, whereas those of IL-7, IL-8, and IP-10 were higher in women. Using the estimated age- and sex-adjusted RIs, more than 92% of the validation sample was correctly classified, and 100% of the severe DED patients in the utility sample had concentrations outside the RIs in at least two of the cytokines evaluated.
A Fast-Reduced Model for an Innovative Latent Thermal Energy Storage for Direct Integration in Heat Pumps
Authors: Palomba Valeria , Frazzica Andrea
Published: September 2021

In the present paper, the numerical modeling of an innovative latent thermal energy storage unit, suitable for direct integration into the condenser or evaporator of a heat pump is presented. The Modelica language, in the Dymola environment, and TIL libraries were used for the development of a modular model, which is easily re-usable and adaptable to different configurations. Validation of the model was carried out using experimental data under different operating modes and it was subsequently used for the optimization of a design for charging and discharge. In particular, since the storage unit is made up of parallel channels for the heat transfer fluid, refrigerant, and phase change material, their number and distribution were changed to evaluate the effect on heat transfer performance.
Monte Carlo Simulation-Based Calculations of Complex DNA Damage for Incidents of Environmental Ionizing Radiation Exposure
Authors: Kalospyros Spyridon A. , Gika Violeta , Nikitaki Zacharenia , Kalamara Antigoni , Kyriakou Ioanna , Emfietzoglou Dimitris , Kokkoris Michael , Georgakilas Alexandros G.
Published: September 2021

In this paper, we present a useful Monte Carlo (MC)-based methodology that can be utilized to calculate the absorbed dose and the initial levels of complex DNA damage (such as double strand breaks-DSBs) in the case of an environmental ionizing radiation (IR) exposure incident (REI) i.e., a nuclear accident. Our objective is to assess the doses and complex DNA damage by isolating only one component of the total radiation released in the environment after a REI that will affect the health of the exposed individual. More specifically, the radiation emitted by radionuclide 137Cs in the ground (under the individual’s feet). We use a merging of the Monte Carlo N-Particle Transport code (MCNP) with the Monte Carlo Damage Simulation (MCDS) code. The DNA lesions have been estimated through simulations for different surface activities of a 137Cs ground-based γ radiation source. The energy spectrum of the emitted secondary electrons and the absorbed dose in typical mammalian cells have been calculated using the MCNP code, and then these data are used as an input in the MCDS code for the estimation of critical DNA damage levels and types. As a realistic application, the calculated dose is also used to assess the Excess Lifetime Cancer Risk (ELCR) for eight hypothetical individuals, living in different zones around the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant, exposed to different time periods at the days of the accident in 1986. We conclude that any exposition of an individual in the near zone of Chernobyl increases the risk of cancer at a moderate to high grade, connected also with the induction of complex DNA damage by radiation. Generally, our methodology has proven to be useful for assessing γ rays-induced complex DNA damage levels of the exposed population, in the case of a REI and for better understanding the long-term health effects of exposure of the population to IR.
Responses of Hydrodynamics and Saline Water Intrusion to Typhoon Fongwong in the North Branch of the Yangtze River Estuary
Authors: Kuang Cuiping , Chen Kuo , Wang Jie , Wu Yunlong , Liu Xu , Xia Zilong
Published: September 2021

The typhoon impact on an estuarine environment is complex and systematic. A three-dimensional hydrodynamic and salinity transport model with a high-resolution, unstructured mesh and a spatially varying bottom roughness, is applied to investigate the effects of a historical typhoon, Fongwong, which affected Shanghai, on the hydrodynamics and saline water intrusion in the North Branch (NB) of the Yangtze River Estuary (YRE). The model is well validated through observation data of the tidal level, current velocity and direction, and salinity. The numerical results of this typhoon event show that: (1) the tidal level and its range increase toward the upstream part of the NB due to the combined effects of the funnel-shaped plane geometry of the NB and the typhoon; (2) the current velocity and the flow spilt ratio of the NB varies with the tides, with a maximum increase by 0.13 m/s and 26.61% during the flood tide and a maximum decrease by 0.12 m/s and 83.33% during the ebb tide, i.e., the typhoon enhances the flood current and weakens the ebb current; (3) the salinity value increases in the NB to a maximum of 1.40 psu and water is well-mixed in the vertical direction in the typhoon’s stable and falling period. The salinity distribution gradually recovered to the normal salt wedge pattern in 3 days following the typhoon. Although this study is based on a site-specific model, the findings will provide valuable insights into saline water intrusion under typhoon events, and thus assist in implementing more efficient estuarine management strategies for drinking water safety.
A General Framework for Crankshaft Balancing and Counterweight Design
Authors: Dagna Alberto , Delprete Cristiana , Gastaldi Chiara
Published: September 2021

In the automotive field, the requirements in terms of carbon emissions and improved efficiency are shifting the focus of designers towards reduced engine size. As a result, the dynamic balancing of an engine with strict limitations on the number of cylinders, the weight and the available space becomes a challenging task. The present contribution aims at providing the designer with a tool capable of selecting fundamental parameters needed to correctly balance an internal combustion engine, including the masses and geometry of the elements to be added directly onto the crankshaft and onto the balancing shafts. The relevant elements that distinguish the tool from others already proposed are two. The first is the comprehensive matrix formulation which makes the tool fit for a wide variety of engine configurations. The second is an optimisation procedure that selects not only the position of the mass and centre of gravity of the counterweight but also its complete geometric configuration, thus instantaneously identifying the overall dimensions and weight of the crankshaft.
The Effect of Azimuth and Tilt Angle Changes on the Energy Balance of Photovoltaic System Installed in the Southern Slovakia Region
Authors: Božiková Monika , Bilčík Matúš , Madola Vladimír , Szabóová Tímea , Kubík Ľubomír , Lendelová Jana , Cviklovič Vladimír
Published: September 2021

Energy balance of the photovoltaic system is influenced by many factors. In this article the effect of tilt and azimuth angle changes of the photovoltaic system energy production is analyzed. These parameters have significant impact on the amount of solar radiation which hits on the photovoltaic panel surface and therefore also on the energy absorbed by the module surface. The main aim of research was identification of the optimal position of photovoltaic system installation in the southern Slovakia regions. The experimental apparatus had two setups consisting of polycrystalline photovoltaic modules. The first setup was used for identification of the tilt angle changes in the range (0–90°). The second one was focused on the detection of the azimuth angle effect to the energy production. The measurement results were statistically processed and mathematically analyzed. Obtained dependencies are presented as two-dimensional and three-dimensional graphical relations. Regression equations characterize time relations between the tilt or azimuth angle and the energy produced by the photovoltaic system in Southern Slovakia. Obtained simplified mathematical model was verified by analytical model. Presented models can be used for the dimensioning and optimization of the photovoltaic system energy production.
DEM-FDM Coupled Numerical Study on the Reinforcement of Biaxial and Triaxial Geogrid Using Pullout Test
Authors: Fu Jianjun , Li Junfeng , Chen Cheng , Rui Rui
Published: September 2021

The key to modeling the interlocking of geogrid-reinforced ballast is considering both the continuous deformation characteristics of the geogrid and the discontinuity of the ballast particles. For this purpose, pullout tests using biaxial and triaxial geogrids were simulated using the coupled discrete element method (DEM) and finite difference method (FDM). In this coupled model, two real-shaped geogrid models with square and triangular apertures were established using the solid element in FLAC3D. Meanwhile, simplified shaped clumps were used to represent the ballast using PFC3D. The calibration test simulation showed that the accurately formed geogrid model can reproduce the deformation and strength characteristics of a geogrid. The pullout simulation results show that the DEM-FDM method can well predict the relationship between pullout force and displacement, which is more accurate than the DEM method. For ballast particles of 40 mm in size, both the experiment and simulation results showed that the triaxial geogrid of 75 mm is better than the 65-mm biaxial geogrid. In addition, the DEM-FDM method can study the interaction mechanism between the particles and the geogrid from a microscopic view, and also reveal the similar deformation behavior of the geogrid in the pullout process. Therefore, the DEM-FDM coupled method can not only investigate the interlocking mechanism between the ballast and particles but can also provide a great method for evaluating the performance of different types of geogrids.
Treatment of Infectious Waste through the Application Rotary Kiln Incinerators and Ozone Technology
Authors: Khannam Khomson , Vattanapuripakorn Wenich , Sonsupap Sathapon , Sarasamkan Jiradanai , Tongsantia Umakorn , Bubphachot Bopit
Published: September 2021

The alarming rate at which infectious waste is growing was an unsolved problem worldwide before the pandemic, and it has only gotten worse. It is especially prominent in the medical services, owing to the improper use or the lack of high-efficiency waste management systems. To address this issue, this paper presents a modification to the conventional rotary kiln incineration method using add-on ozone (O3) at a concentration of 100–160 g/h in order to enhance its efficiency when treating emitted air pollutants. These pollutants of Hg, HF, TSP, SO2, NO2, CO, and HCl were measured, and their percent opacity concentrations were 0.006 mg/m3, 0.680 mg/m3, 21.900 mg/m3, 5.600 mg/m3, 16.300 mg/m3, 13.700 mg/m3, 0.022 mg/m3, and 6%, respectively. The amounts of these air pollutants were considerably lower than those released from a rotary kiln incinerator without the add-on ozone. Additionally, all the measurements were lower than the emission thresholds established in the US Environmental Protection Agency Emission Standards Reference Guide. Therefore, using the proposed rotary kiln incineration method modified with add-on ozone is suitable for use in the elimination of infectious waste in that it drastically reduces air pollution and improves air quality, resulting in environmental improvements aimed at mitigating the devastating impacts pollution has on human health.
Estimation of Rate Constants for Reactions of Organic Compounds under Atmospheric Conditions
Authors: Carter William P. L.
Published: September 2021

Structure–activity (SAR) methods are presented for estimating rate constants at 298 K and approximate temperature dependences for the reactions of organic compounds with OH, NO3, and Cl radicals and O3, and O(3P) in the lower atmosphere. These are needed for detailed mechanisms for the atmospheric reactions of organic compounds. Base rate constants are assigned for the various types of H-abstraction and addition reactions, with correction factors for substituents around the reaction site and in some cases for rings and molecule structure or size. Rate constant estimates are made for hydrocarbons and a wide variety of oxygenates, organic nitrates, amines, and monosubstituted halogen compounds. Rate constants for most hydrocarbons and monofunctional compounds can be estimated to within ±30%, though predictions are not as good for multifunctional compounds, and predictions for ~15% of the rate constants are off by more than a factor of 2. Estimates are more uncertain in the case of NO3 and O3 reactions. The results serve to demonstrate the capabilities and limitations of empirical methods for predicting rate constants for the full variety of organic compounds that may be of interest. Areas where future work is needed are discussed.
Decadal Variation of Atmospheric Rivers in Relation to North Atlantic Tripole SST Mode
Authors: Zhang Jie , Jia Yinglai , Ji Rui , Wu Yifei
Published: September 2021

The North Atlantic tripole (NAT) is the leading mode of sea-surface temperature (SST) in the decadal time scale. Although the NAT is forced by North Atlantic oscillation (NAO), it also has an effect on the atmosphere; for example, the early winter tripole SST signal can influence storm tracks in March. As the NAT not only changes the baroclinicity of the lower layer but also modifies the moisture being released into the atmosphere, we surmise that the NAT has an impact on moisture transport and atmospheric rivers in the decadal time scale. Using ERA5 reanalysis data, the decadal variations in Atmospheric Rivers (ARs) in the North Atlantic in boral winter in relation to NAT phases were studied. During the positive NAT phase, the positive SST in the central and western North Atlantic increases the humidity and causes an anticyclonic wind response, which enhances the northeastward transport of moisture. As a result, ARs tend to be longer and transport more moisture toward northwestern Europe. This causes enhanced extreme rain in the UK and Norway. During the negative NAT phase, the positive SST anomalies in the south and east of the North Atlantic provide more moisture, induce a southward shift of the ARs and enhance extreme rain in the Iberian Peninsula. The Gulf Stream (GS) front is stronger during the negative NAT phase, increasing the frequency of the atmospheric front and enlarging the rain rate in ARs.