bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design and Behavior of Lightweight Flexible Structure with Spatial Pattern Reducing Contact Surface Fraction
Authors: Rybansky David , Marsalek Pavel , Sotola Martin , Hroncek Juraj , Drahorad Lukas , Kusnir Ondrej , Prokop Jiri
Published: September 2023

Flexible structures are increasingly important in biomedical applications, where they can be used to achieve adaptable designs. This paper presents a study of the design and behavior of 3D-printed lightweight flexible structures. In this work, we focus on the design principles and numerical modelling of spatial patterns, as well as their mechanical properties and behavior under various loads. Contact surface fraction was determined as the ratio of the surface area of the printed pattern to the surface area of the entire curved surface. The objective of this work is to design a spatial pattern reducing contact surface fraction and develop a non-linear numerical model evaluating the structure’s stiffness; in addition, we aimed to identify the best design pattern with respect to its stiffness:mass ratio. The experimental verification of the numerical model is performed on 3D-printed prototypes prepared using the Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) method and made of Nylon—Polyamide 12. The obtained results provide insights into designing and optimizing lightweight external biomedical applications such as prostheses, orthoses, helmets, or adaptive cushions.
An Investigation of PPy@1T/2H MoS2 Composites with Durable Photothermal-Promoted Effect in Photo-Fenton Degradation of Methylene Blue and in Water Evaporation
Authors: Lei Yanhua , Huo Da , Liu Hui , Cheng Sha , Ding Mengchao , Jiang Bochen , Zhang Fei , Zhang Yuliang , Gao Guanhui
Published: September 2023

MoS2 has garnered considerable attention as an exceptional co-catalyst that is capable of significantly enhancing the efficiency of H2O2 decomposition in advanced oxidation processes (AOPs). This improvement allows for a reduction in the required amounts of H2O2 and Fe2+. In this study, we investigated the cyclic durability of photo-Fenton catalysts, focusing on the degradation of pollutants through the introduction of PPy into heterogeneous 1T-2H MoS2 units. The resulting photothermal-Fenton catalysts, comprising non-ferrous Fenton catalysts, demonstrated excellent degradation performance for simulated pollutants. In comparison with 1T-2H MoS2, the PPy@1T-2H MoS2 composite exhibited remarkable stability and photothermal enhancement in the photo-Fenton degradation of methylene blue (MB) under visible light irradiation. The photo-Fenton reaction efficiently degraded contaminants, achieving 99% removal within 5 min and 99.8% removal within 30 min. Moreover, the co-catalyst complex displayed enhanced cyclic stability during the photo-Fenton reaction, with a contaminant removal efficiency of 92%, even after the 13th cyclic test. The combined effects of PPy and 1T-2H MoS2 demonstrated improved efficiency in both photocatalytic and photo-Fenton catalytic reactions. Furthermore, PPy@1T-2H MoS2 exhibited outstanding performance in the photothermal evaporation of water, achieving an efficiency of 86.3% under one solar irradiation.
Ecotoxicity of Caffeine as a Bio-Protective Component of Flax-Fiber-Reinforced Epoxy-Composite Building Material
Authors: Kobetičová Klára , Nábělková Jana , Brejcha Viktor , Böhm Martin , Jerman Miloš , Brich Jiří , Černý Robert
Published: September 2023

Caffeine is a verified bio-protective substance in the fight against the biodegradation of cellulose materials, but its ecotoxicity in this context has not yet been studied. For this reason, the ecotoxicity of flax-fiber-reinforced epoxy composite with or without caffeine was tested in the present study. Prepared samples of the composite material were tested on freshwater green algal species (Hematococcus pluvialis), yeasts (Saccharomyces cerevisae), and crustacean species (Daphnia magna). Aqueous eluates were prepared from the studied material (with caffeine addition (12%) and without caffeine and pure flax fibers), which were subjected to chemical analysis for the residues of caffeine or metals. The results indicate the presence of caffeine up to 0.001 mg/L. The eluate of the studied material was fully toxic for daphnids and partially for algae and yeasts, but the presence of caffeine did not increase its toxicity statistically significantly, in all cases. The final negative biological effects were probably caused by the mix of heavy metal residues and organic substances based on epoxy resins released directly from the tested composite material.
The Social Backgrounds, Dharma Lineages, and Achievements of Women Chan Masters, 1572–1722
Authors: Chen Yuh-Neu
Published: September 2023

This article continues the investigation of my previous paper ‘Wan Ming Qing chu dongnan yanhai gangkou Fosi de biqiuni shenying’ 晚明清初東南沿海港口佛寺的比丘尼身影 (‘The Historic Image of the Bhikkhuni Who Lived at Buddhist Monasteries of Seaport Cities of Southeast China during the Late Ming and Early Qing Period’). While discussing the space of port city Buddhist monasteries and their urban environment, and how they aided or hindered the bhikkhuni monastic community, or individual bhikkhuni in their practice, life, and personal achievements, I also realized that a bhikkhuni’s family background and her connections with local gentry and eminent persons indeed contributed to the rise of her prestige. The publication and distribution of the recorded sayings of several women Chan monastics residing in the Buddhist monasteries of port cities during the late Ming and early Qing periods can be regarded as a commendable breakthrough in the Buddhist history of this period. To further clarify the resource structure that helped support these Chan bhikkhuni, including the multifaceted interplay between their blood ties, dharma connections, and regional connections, I aim here to particularly examine the backgrounds, dharma lineages, activity regions, and ultimate achievements of these women Chan monastics. I will consider how it is that these Chan bhikkhuni were able to use such resources to achieve the distinction of having their deeds recorded, while so many more of their fellow bhikkhuni have been forgotten. While in real life, there were a rather large number of bhikkhuni, only a few have been able to have their names passed down to posterity. Women have always faced greater challenges than men in having their voices known and receiving social recognition, and even for men, this has never been easy without a relevant support system—one’s own personal cultivation, the prestige of one’s family, the power of one’s dharma lineage, the strength of one’s personal connection, the disparity in the resources that one has access to in their urban or rural society, etc.; all these various factors affect one’s achievements and performance. Especially in Chan Buddhist texts, where women are greatly underrepresented, I aim to explore in this paper how a women Chan monastic could be included in the Chan historical record, have her recorded sayings published, and have a place in Buddhism or the dharma lineages of Chan.
Mapping Agricultural Land in Afghanistan’s Opium Provinces Using a Generalised Deep Learning Model and Medium Resolution Satellite Imagery
Authors: Simms Daniel M. , Hamer Alex M. , Zeiler Irmgard , Vita Lorenzo , Waine Toby W.
Published: September 2023

Understanding the relationship between land use and opium production is critical for monitoring the dynamics of poppy cultivation and developing an effective counter narcotics policy in Afghanistan. However, mapping agricultural land accurately and rapidly is challenging, as current methods require resource-intensive and time consuming manual image-interpretation. Deep convolutional neural nets have been shown to greatly reduce the manual effort in mapping agriculture from satellite imagery but require large amounts of densely labelled training data for model training. Here we develop a generalised model using past images and labels from different medium resolution satellite sensors for fully automatic agricultural land classification using the latest medium resolution satellite imagery. The model (FCN-8) is first trained on Disaster Monitoring Constellation (DMC) satellite images from 2007 to 2009. The effect of shape, texture and spectral features on model performance are investigated along with normalisation in order to standardise input medium resolution imagery from DMC, Landsat-5, Landsat-8, and Sentinel-2 for transfer learning between sensors and across years. Textural features make the highest contribution to overall accuracy (∼73%) while the effect of shape is minimal. The model accuracy on new images, with no additional training, is comparable to visual image interpretation (overall > 95%, user accuracy > 91%, producer accuracy > 85%, and frequency weighted intersection over union > 67%). The model is robust and was used to map agriculture from archive images (1990) and can be used in other areas with similar landscapes. The model can be updated by fine tuning using smaller, sparsely labelled datasets in the future. The generalised model was used to map the change in agricultural area in Helmand Province, showing the expansion of agricultural land into former desert areas. Training generalised deep learning models using data from both new and long-term EO programmes, with little or no requirement for fine tuning, is an exciting opportunity for automating image classification across datasets and through time that can improve our understanding of the environment.
Spatiotemporal Variation of Anticyclonic Eddies in the South China Sea during 1993–2019
Authors: Shi Weian , Hu Jianyu
Published: September 2023

Based on the absolute dynamic topography data from the Copernicus Marine Environment Monitoring Service, this paper applies the Topographic Position Index to develop a new approach for mapping the anticyclonic eddies in the South China Sea (SCS). The results show that anticyclonic eddies are active in the deep basin of SCS, and the five selected parameters (number or frequency, lifetime, kinetic energy, amplitude, and area or radius) of anticyclonic eddies have a similar temporal variation and a similar spatial distribution pattern. (1) As for monthly variations, anticyclonic eddies are active in late spring and most active in summer. (2) The El Niño–Southern Oscillation had a stronger impact on the inter-annual variations of anticyclonic eddies in the SCS before 2013, resulting in a significant transition of inter-annual variations of these five parameters in around 2004. After 2013, most of these five parameters had a minimum in 2015 and a maximum in 2017. (3) Analyses show that the eddy activities in the SCS are significantly influenced by the monsoon wind and the western boundary current like Kuroshio. Therefore, the areas southwest of Taiwan Island and east of Vietnam are the two areas where the anticyclonic eddies are most active, with much larger eddy kinetic energy and much higher eddy amplitude.
Channel Profiles Reveal Fault Activity along the Longmen Shan, Eastern Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Wang Wei , Shao Yanxiu , Zhang Jinyu , Wang Wenxin , Lu Renqi
Published: September 2023

Assessing fault activity in regions lacking Quaternary sedimentary constraints remains a global challenge. In this study, we used channel slope distribution to examine variations in rock uplift along faults. By comparing channel steepness with published low-temperature thermochronology and paleo-seismic data, we identified deformation changes both perpendicular to and along the Longmen Shan at various time scales. Our data revealed distinct fault segments displaying distinct thrust activities along the Longmen Shan’s strike. In the southern segment, the Dachuan fault exhibited the highest activity, and its movement had persisted for millions of years. In the central segment, the Wenchuan fault was active during theearly Quaternary but has become dormant since the late Pleistocene. Within the past millions of years, the Yingxiu and Pengguan faults displayed significant vertical displacement. Fault activity in the northern Longmen Shan was relatively weak, with the Qingchuan fault transitioning from thrust movement during the Neogene to pure strike-slip activity since the Pleistocene. Overall, the Dachuan and Huya faults exhibited deformation patterns similar to the Yingxiu fault during the Quaternary. Similar to the Yingxiu fault, which triggered the Wenchuan earthquake, the Dachuan and Huya faults possess the capacity to produce significant earthquakes in the future. The variations in deformation perpendicular to and along the Longmen Shan fault system underscore the importance of upper crustal shortening in shaping the rock uplift patterns and topography of the eastern Tibetan Plateau margin.
Development of an Ultrasound-Assisted Emulsification Microextraction Method for the Determination of Volatile Compounds in Wines
Authors: Chalvantzi Ioanna , Nisiotou Aspasia , Banilas Georgios , Mallouchos Athanasios
Published: September 2023

A fast and simple method based on ultrasound-assisted emulsification microextraction (USAEME) was developed for the analysis of volatile compounds in wines. A full factorial 24 screening design was built to investigate the main factors affecting the extraction of volatile components, namely the volume of extraction solvent, sonication time, salt content, and pH. Then, the factors with significant effects were optimized using an I-optimal design. The optimal value for all the variables studied was reached under the following experimental conditions: volume of extraction solvent 200 μL and salt content 5% m/v. The suitability of the optimized method was evaluated, resulting in very good linearity with coefficients of determination (R2) higher than 0.995 in all cases, while repeatability was lower than 8.4% except for d-limonene and p-cymene. Recoveries higher than 82% were observed for the groups of ethyl esters, acetate esters, alcohols, and terpenoid alcohols (linalool, α-terpineol). The recovery of acids ranged from 70.5% to 88.9%, whereas the three monoterpenes studied (d-limonene, γ-terpinene, p-cymene) were not extracted satisfactorily. The proposed method was effectively applied for the analysis of volatile compounds in laboratory-scale fermentations with selected strains of Saccharomyces cerevisiae.
Flow Turbulence and Pressure Fluctuations in a Hydraulic Jump
Authors: Kim Hyung Suk , Choi Seohye , Park Moonhyeong , Ryu Yonguk
Published: September 2023

Turbulence and pressure fluctuations are key elements in the bed protection design of hydraulic structures. However, their roles in a hydraulic jump are not yet fully understood, and the nature of their relationships are not conclusive. In order to better understand the relationships between pressure fluctuations and flow characteristics of a hydraulic jump downstream of a weir, detailed measurements of flow kinematics using the nonintrusive techniques of particle image velocimetry and bubble image velocimetry and pressure using voltage-type pressure gauges were carried out in this study. The physical modeling of the hydraulic jump was carried out using the simultaneous measurements of pressure and turbulent flow properties. The distributions of flow properties, such as water level and velocity, were assessed in each case. Based on the measurements, the correlations between the pressure fluctuations and the variables were investigated by coupling the statistical values of the variables at the same points. The analysis results show that the water level and turbulence intensity are the main factors influencing the pressure fluctuations in the hydraulic jump. Using these factors, an empirical formula and dimensionless numbers are proposed to show that the pressure fluctuations depend on the bubble flow behavior.
User Interface Characteristics Influencing Medical Self-Service Terminals Behavioral Intention and Acceptance by Chinese Elderly: An Empirical Examination Based on an Extended UTAUT Model
Authors: Wu Qun , Huang Lan , Zong Jiecong
Published: September 2023

Medical self-service terminals (MSTs) offer potential advantages for optimizing workflows and enhancing patient experience in hospitals, particularly for the elderly. Despite this, the uptake of MSTs among older adults in China remains a challenge. This research aims to identify the key factors influencing behavioral intention (BI) to adopt MSTs in this age group, with a particular emphasis on user interface (UI) attributes. We extend the Unified Technology Acceptance and Use Theory (UTAUT) model to include these UI elements. Our empirical analysis examines seven variables, which include three critical UI attributes and four core UTAUT elements. The results highlight the importance of performance expectancy (β = 0.40, p < 0.001), effort expectancy (β = 0.50, p < 0.001), and social influence (β = 0.25, p < 0.05) in shaping BI. Importantly, the design of the user interface shows a strong positive correlation with both performance expectancy (β = 0.89, p < 0.001) and effort expectancy (β = 0.81, p < 0.001). These findings illuminate the complex relationship between objective UI features and subjective UTAUT factors. Our study enriches the understanding of how UI design affects the willingness and acceptance of MSTs, especially among China’s elderly population, emphasizing the need to incorporate their viewpoints for successful technology integration in healthcare.
Microplastic Abundance in Rainbow Trout Life Cycle: Step by Step
Authors: Alak Gonca , Köktürk Mine , Atamanalp Muhammed , Kocaman Esat Mahmut , Ucar Arzu , Esenbuğa Nurinisa , Özcan Sinan , Parlak Veysel
Published: September 2023

In recent years, with the encouragement of national and international authorities, researchers on plastic levels in aquaculture have begun to assess consumer health risks as well as ecological monitoring. Based on this guidance, the aim of this study is to determine the microplastic load of rainbow trout raised under routine breeding conditions without an external treatment in all developmental stages from egg to +1 year of age. Sperm, egg, fertilized egg, eyed egg, alevin or such fry, and swimming fry on growing stock (1-year-old) stages of cultured fish and commercial feeds were used for the following stages: 300–500 µm, 500–800 µm, 800–1200 µm, 1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, and 5 mm. The samples were collected to determine the presence of microplastic (MP) and at which stage of this life cycle the MP has entered into the system intensively. The obtained findings showed that the total amount of MP determined in the stages without feed intake was 14 pieces, and this value increased by 557% (total of 92-piece MP) in fish that started external feeding. While no significant difference was found between the MP amounts in different feed groups, the dominant microplastic color in the feed groups was black and blue, and the polymer type was polyethylene. This general modelling, in which MP concentrations are determined in all life cycles from egg to adult in a cultured fish species, including in the given feeds, will encourage further research. Current findings have shown that any outsourced input used during growing periods can cause MP contamination to the end of fish production, processing, and storage.
Effects of Wind Erosion Control Measures on Vegetation Dynamics and Soil-Surface Materials through Field Observations and Vegetation Indices in Arid Areas, Southeastern Tunisia
Authors: Khatteli Ameni , Tlili Abderrazak , Chaieb Mohamed , Ouessar Mohamed
Published: September 2023

Effective land management in the Djeffara plain, southeastern Tunisia, is being constrained by increasing land degradation issues due to arid climate conditions and soil erosion. Thus, this study aims to assess the impact of the integrated control measures, namely windbreaks and controlled grazing, on the restoration of land cover dynamics in six managed rangeland areas. Land cover changes were monitored using satellite data and the derived vegetation indices (the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) and the soil-adjusted vegetation index (SAVI)) from Landsat 8 (OLI), both within and outside the protected areas. The findings reveal that the implemented protection measures lead to an increase in vegetation cover, diversity, and plant density. They play an important role in stabilizing the upper soil layer. The oldest protected areas, particularly those that are well-maintained with controlled seasonal grazing, experienced a reduction in sand movement. The reintroduction of grazing should, however, be controlled to prevent degradation risks. The results show strong correlations between vegetation cover and both calculated vegetation indices, (0.73 < R2 < 0.91), with more accurate estimating for the SAVI. The findings of this research can guide decision-makers for restoring degraded rangelands and planning effective control measures for wind erosion.
Multi-Time-Scale Optimal Scheduling of Integrated Energy System Considering Transmission Delay and Heat Storage of Heating Network
Authors: Wang Jiawei , Zeng Aidong , Wan Yaheng
Published: September 2023

In the integrated energy system, significant potential exists for the regulation of the heat storage capacity within the heating network. In relation to this attribute, the establishment of the quasi-dynamic model for the heating network is accomplished through the utilization of the fictitious node method. Additionally, a method is introduced to quantify the heat storage within the heating network. Moreover, a multi-time-scale scheduling approach is proposed for the integrated energy system, with consideration given to the heat storage of the heating network. During the day-ahead scheduling phase, the active regulation of the heat storage within the heating network is carried out to enhance the economy of system operation. Transitioning to the intra-day upper scheduling phase, the heat storage capacity of the heating network is utilized to eliminate the transmission delay effect, thereby achieving the coordinated scheduling of both electricity and heat. Shifting to the intra-day lower scheduling phase, the heat storage capacity of the heating network is utilized to enhance the operational flexibility of the power system. Simulation experiments demonstrate that the coordinated scheduling of electricity and heat in the integrated energy system can be effectively achieved through the utilization of the fictitious node method. Furthermore, the proposed multi-time-scale scheduling method, making full use of the heat storage characteristics of the heating network, can effectively suppress fluctuations in the new energy output and load demand while taking the economy into account. In this paper, it results in a 5.9% improvement in system operating economics and possesses the capacity to mitigate wind power fluctuations with an error rate of approximately 20%. This capability significantly enhances the integration of wind power as a sustainable energy source.
Evaluating Mixed Land Use and Connectivity: A Case Study of Five Neighborhoods in Erbil City, Iraq
Authors: Khoshnaw Rebaz
Published: September 2023

In Erbil, the capital city of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, rapid urban growth has led to many sustainability challenges and has prompted shifts in neighborhood planning over time. This research examines the aspects of connectivity and mixed land use within five neighborhoods constructed during different periods. Given the limited research on this topic in regard to Erbil, the objective of this research is to bridge this gap by evaluating the performance of these two aspects of sustainable urban design in neighborhoods with different urban characteristics. The research methodology employed in this study integrates both qualitative and quantitative approaches to attain comprehensive insights. This approach encompasses surveys to assess residents’ satisfaction, measures the entropy index, and utilizes space syntax analysis to examine street networks. The findings of this study reveal that non-gated neighborhoods exhibit a higher level of connectivity and mixed land use, indicating the need for more substantial interventions in improving gated neighborhoods. Additionally, it shows that older neighborhoods with short and irregular streets demonstrate a higher level of connectivity. The implications of these findings extend beyond academia, bearing substantial significance for municipalities and policymakers involved in city development planning. In other words, it shows that the oldest neighborhood was the most compatible with indicators and principles of mixed land use and connectivity. However, gated neighborhoods, despite the good quality of the infrastructure, fall short of meeting the principles of sustainable neighborhoods.
Behavioural Insights in Corporate Sustainability Research: A Review and Future Agenda
Authors: Kubera Paulina
Published: September 2023

As a plethora of sustainability challenges are rooted in human behaviour, the aim of this paper is to develop a conceptual framework that brings behavioural insights to the forefront in corporate sustainability research. The ABCD (attention, belief formation, choice, determination) approach, which is meant to assist policy-makers in analysing and diagnosing behavioural problems at an individual level, has been adopted into the corporate context. Taking the ABCD approach, this article discusses the main tenets of the prominent organisational theories, such as upper echelons theory, managerial cognition, stakeholder theory, the attention-based view of the firm, transaction cost theory, institutional theory, social network theory, legitimacy theory and signalling theory, and their application into corporate sustainability (CS) research. The paper offers a series of propositions, alternative to theories of structural determinism or theories of rational strategic choice, for specifying the conditions under which firms are likely to engage in sustainable business conduct. They refer among others to: (a) individual factors—characteristics and mental frames of managers in companies, (b) organisational factors—the composition and size of a board, governance mechanisms in a company, such as role models for sustainability issue selling, or the inclusion in decision making of various stakeholders, as well as (c) external factors—social norms or board connections.
Feasibility Study of a Micro Hydro Power Plant for Rural Electrification in Lalumpe Village, North Sulawesi, Indonesia
Authors: Rumbayan Meita , Rumbayan Rilya
Published: September 2023

This feasibility study aims to assess the potential of implementing a micro hydro system in Lalumpe Village, located in North Sulawesi, Indonesia. The study focuses on evaluating the technical and economic aspects of the proposed micro hydro project. Data collection was carried out through field surveys, interviews with local stakeholders, and analysis of available hydrological and topographical data. The technical assessment involved conducting a resource assessment to determine the water availability and potential for harnessing hydroelectric power in the area. The study also examined the village’s energy demand and determined the suitable capacity of the micro hydro system required to meet the community’s needs. Economic analysis included estimating the initial investment costs, operation and maintenance expenses, and potential revenue generation from the sale of excess electricity to the local grid. Financial viability indicators such as payback period and net present value were calculated to assess the economic feasibility of the project.
Metal-Organic Frameworks Based Multifunctional Materials for Solar Cells: A Review
Authors: Do Ha , Kim Soo
Published: September 2023

Developing low-cost and stable materials for converting solar energy into electricity is vital in meeting the world’s energy demand. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have gained attention for solar cells due to their natural porous architectures and tunable chemical structures. They are built by high-symmetry metal clusters as secondary building units and organic carboxylate/azolate ligands as linkers. This review commences with an exploration of the synthetic methods of MOFs. Moreover, we discuss the various roles of MOFs, including photoanodes and counter electrodes in dye-sensitized solar cells and interfacial layers and charge carriers in perovskite solar cells. Additionally, studies involving the application of MOFs for OSC were additionally presented. Ultimately, burdensome tasks and possible directions for advancing MOFs-based nanomaterials are provided for solar cells.
Resveratrol against Echinococcus sp.: Discrepancies between In Vitro and In Vivo Responses
Authors: Loos Julia A. , Franco Micaela , Chop Maia , Rodriguez Rodrigues Christian , Cumino Andrea C.
Published: September 2023

In an attempt to find new anti-echinococcal drugs, resveratrol (Rsv) effectiveness against the larval stages of Echinococcus granulosus and E. multilocularis was evaluated. The in vitro effect of Rsv on parasites was assessed via optical and electron microscopy, RT-qPCR and immunohistochemistry. In vivo efficacy was evaluated in murine models of cystic (CE) and alveolar echinococcosis (AE). The impact of infection and drug treatment on the mouse bone marrow hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) population and its differentiation into dendritic cells (BMDCs) was investigated via flow cytometry and RT-qPCR. In vitro treatment with Rsv reduced E. granulosus metacestode and protoscolex viability in a concentration-dependent manner, caused ultrastructural damage, increased autophagy gene transcription, and raised Eg-Atg8 expression while suppressing Eg-TOR. However, the intraperitoneal administration of Rsv was not only ineffective, but also promoted parasite development in mice with CE and AE. In the early infection model of AE treated with Rsv, an expansion of HSCs was observed followed by their differentiation towards BMCDs. The latter showed an anti-inflammatory phenotype and reduced LPS-stimulated activation compared to control BMDCs. We suggest that Rsv ineffectiveness could have been caused by the low intracystic concentration achieved in vivo and the drug’s hormetic effect, with opposite anti-parasitic and immunomodulatory responses in different doses.
Axionic Dark Matter in a Bi-Metric Universe
Authors: Maldonado Carlos , Méndez Fernando
Published: September 2023

We study the evolution and production of axion dark matter in a universe model with two scale factors corresponding to different patches of the universe. The interaction between patches is described through a deformed Poisson bracket structure. The first part of the present paper is devoted to a review of the results reported in previous works concerning the study of dark matter as WIMPs and FIMPs. The new results concerning axionic dark matter in this bi-metric scenario show that different values of the deformation parameter κ allow values of masses and misalignment angles forbidden in standard cosmology. The present model can also be considered a different type of nonstandard cosmology consistent with previously reported results.
Molecular Investigation of the Achnanthidium minutissimum Complex (Bacillariophyceae) from the Transbaikal Region with the Description of Three New Species
Authors: Tseplik Natalia , Genkal Sergey , Maltsev Yevhen , Kuznetsova Irina , Kulikovskiy Maxim
Published: September 2023

Representatives of the Achnanthidium minutissimum complex have been studied from the Transbaikal region, Russia. The Transbaikal region is known for its unique algal flora and high levels of endemism. Despite the group of monoraphid diatoms being studied quite extensively in this region in recent years, only four species of Achnanthidium have been reported so far. Three new species are described based on LM and SEM microphotographs and molecular data: Achnanthidium baicalonanum sp. nov., A. obscurum sp. nov. and A. angustum sp. nov. Comparison with similar species is given. The new species differ from other species of the genus by valve shape, striae and areolae structure, shape of external distal raphe ends and central area. According to molecular data, the new species form separate branches within the A. minutissimum complex. Ecological preferences of the new species are examined. All of the new species are only known from the Transbaikal region. This study contributes to the understanding of Achnanthidium taxonomy and biogeography and will be an asset to future biomonitoring studies.
Application of EfficientNet and YOLOv5 Model in Submarine Pipeline Inspection and a New Decision-Making System
Authors: Li Xuecheng , Li Xiaobin , Han Biao , Wang Shang , Chen Kairun
Published: September 2023

Submarine pipelines are the main means of transporting oil and gas produced offshore. The present work proposed a deep learning technology to identify damage caused by characteristic events and abnormal events using pipeline images collected by remotely operated vehicles (ROVs). The EfficientNet and You Only Look Once (YOLO) models were used in this study to classify images and detect events. The results show that the EfficentNet model achieved the highest classification accuracy at 93.57 percent, along with a recall rate of 88.57 percent. The combining of the EfficentNet and YOLOv5 models achieved a higher accuracy of detecting submarine pipeline events and outperformed any other methods. A new decision-making system that integrates the operation and maintenance of the model is proposed and a convenient operation is realized, which provides a new construction method for the rapid inspection of submarine pipelines. Overall, the results of this study show that images acquired via ROVs can be applied to deep learning models to examine submarine pipeline events. The deep learning model is at the core of establishing an effective decision support system for submarine pipeline inspection and the overall application framework lays the foundation for practical application.
Research on the Preparation of Biochar from Waste and Its Application in Environmental Remediation
Authors: Wang Wanyue , Huang Jiacheng , Wu Tao , Ren Xin , Zhao Xuesong
Published: September 2023

Biochar is a carbon-rich material that can be composed of a variety of raw materials. From the perspective of resource reuse, it is quite feasible to use waste as a raw material for the preparation of biochar. This paper provides an overview of the types of waste that can be used to prepare biochar and their specific substances, and also summarises methods to enhance or improve the performance of biochar, including physical, chemical, biological and other methods. The feedstock for biochar includes four categories: agricultural and forestry waste, industrial by-products, municipal solid waste and other non-traditional materials. This paper also summarises and classifies the role played by biochar in environmental applications, which can be classified according to its role as an adsorbent, catalyst and soil conditioner, and other applications. In addition to being widely used as an adsorbent, catalyst and activator, biomass charcoal also has good application prospects as a soil remediation agent, amendment agent and supercapacitor, and in soil carbon sequestration. Finally, some ideas and suggestions are detailed for the present research and experiments, offering new perspectives for future development.
Postero-lateral arterio-venous fistula with particular histological aspects as the main cause of severe spinal thoracal stenosis
Authors: Balasa D. , Tunas Al. , Mocanu L. , Enescu M.
Published: September 2023

Spinal dural arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) are rare spine vascular malformations. We report a case of AVF in the epidural space of T10 and degenerative medial osteophytes leading to clinical symptoms of severe spinal stenosis operated with good evolution.
Management of nontraumatic intracranial haemorrhage (subdural hematoma) in immune thrombocytopenia
Authors: Balasa D. , Tunas Al. , Stan V. , Adam T.
Published: September 2023

Intracranial haemorrhage is a devastating complication of immune thrombocytopenic purpura [1]. The occurrence of a spontaneous subdural hematoma in immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is rare [2], affecting 1% or less of patients [3]. In ITP contrary to traumatic SDH the brain parenchyma is well preserved [3]. We present the case of a patient with immune thrombocytopenia, subdural haemorrhage and asymptomatic parietal parasagittal meningioma. Neurological parameters were closely monitored, including the level of consciousness, pupillary size, motor or sensorial deficit. He was managed successfully medically (platelet-rich plasma and steroids) and then surgically (craniotomy, subdural hematoma aspiration)
Novel technique for intraoperative imaging of the vertebral artery in patients undergoing dorsal osteosynthesis of the cervical spine
Authors: Pavlov Orlin , Mirchev Nikolay , Ruiz Alexa , Obersheimer Jens , Kallenberg Kai , Behr Robert
Published: September 2023

Background: The incidence of fractures in the upper cervical spine is a common entity among elderly patients. The incidence depends on the health care system and the adopted protocols for a computer tomogram in the emergency unit, in order to assure an easier and earlier detection. Injuries to the vertebral artery could occur with devastating consequences, due to this type of fracture. The aim of the current surgical strategies is to stabilize the fractures and avoid further injuries to the vertebral arteries.
Methods: We adopted a previously hypothesized method for intraoperative imaging of the vertebral artery when performing an O-Arm navigated cervical osteosynthesis. Three patients were included in this group: one patient with dens fracture type II after Anderson and D’Alonzo, one patient with a complex C1/C2 fracture and dissection of the vertebral artery on the left side and one patient with a kyphotic deformity due to Larynx carcinoma Metastasis in C4-C6. After positioning the patients, a 100 ml contrast was applied prior to the primary O-Arm scan, thus obtaining real-time imaging of the vertebral artery in the navigational CT series.
Results: A total of 18 screws were placed. None of the screws bridged the vertebral canal. The average operative time was 174 mins. No new neurological deterioration was observed in the postoperative period.
Conclusions: With the development of this technique, it is possible to reduce the surgery-related injury of the vertebral artery to 0%. Further studies are necessary to assess the feasibility of this technique. This technique could be especially helpful in the cases of distorted anatomical relations.
Acute phase of traumatic brain injury
Authors: Bolaño-Romero Maria Paz , Gaitan-Herrera Gustavo , Galarza-Garrido Daniel , Caicedo-Posso Diana Carolina , Ordóñez-Veloza Nathalia Carolina , Guerrero-Eraso Cristian Javier , Hidalgo-Pasaje Jesús David , Castillo-Martínez Jesús David , Pinzon-Vargas Sebastian , Ortega Sierra Michael Gregorio
Published: September 2023

In neurotrauma, diagnostic imaging plays a fundamental role in the early detection of treatable injuries or the mitigation of secondary injuries. Currently, the routine imaging techniques used in the setting of a head trauma patient include non-contrast computed tomography (CT), computed tomography angiography (CTA), conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with T1, T2 or diffusion imaging. Of the above mentioned, CT is superior to MRI in terms of speed of examination, due to the greater access to portable equipment in the patient's environment, which reduces the risk of secondary complications at the time of transfer to the radiology department. Nevertheless, MRI provides a much higher quality of images than CT. MRI is not indicated for the diagnosis of acute brain injury, but if the results of CT without contrast are normal, and neurological manifestations are present, it is indicated. As a result, CT should be the first study requested to the imaging service by the medical team in charge of the patient during the acute phase of the traumatic brain injury. The main objective of this review is to present some of the advantages and disadvantages offered by the different diagnostic imaging methods when approaching and managing brain-injured patients, with emphasis on the acute phase of trauma.
Osteochondroma of axis vertebra treated with en bloc resection and arthrodesis
Authors: Singh Deepak Kumar , Shankar Diwakar , Chand Vipin , Kaif Mohammad
Published: September 2023

Osteochondromas are capped benign bony neoplasm that forms on the outer surface of the bone. They are most commonly found in appendicular skeletal but rare in the spine. The cervical spine is commonly involved in spinal osteochondromas. Here we discuss a case of a 24-year-old male with osteochondroma arising from the posterior arch of C2 (axis) vertebra presenting with myelopathy. Most of the cases are asymptomatic needing only observation. Surgery is needed in case of progressive neurologic deficit. It is recommended to do an en bloc resection of the lesion along with cartilage cap to prevent recurrence and spinal stabilization with arthrodesis to avoid postoperative kyphosis.
Paediatric traumatic chronic subdural hematoma - a very rare entity
Authors: Kumar Kankane Vivek , Shukala Avadhesh , Iyenger S.N.
Published: September 2023

Objectives: To study the prevalence of Traumatic chronic subdural hematoma in children.

Material and methods: This is a prospective study conducted at a tertiary care centre at Gwalior, from November 2020 to November 2021. We encountered 5 patients admitted for signs of raised intracranial tension due to Head trauma, showing Chronic subdural Haematoma ( CSDH) in plain CT  Head or MRI brain. All patients had no history of loss of consciousness, no history of vomiting, no history of seizures, no history of nasal or ear bleed and GCS was 15/15. All blood investigation and coagulation profiles are normal. Frontal and parietal 2.5 cm trephine craniotomy with evacuation of subdural hematoma was done. Patients were followed up at 1 month and 6 months

Result: All children are male. Age ranging from 7 years to 14 years, Mean age of presentation was 10 years. All patients had a history of head trauma and mode of injury road traffic accidents (RTA)  and Glasgow coma scale(GCS) at admission was 15 and duration of developed CSDH was 20 days to 42 days’(mean30.40 days). All patients had good outcomes and the average follow-up was 6.5 months. All patients went on Surgical intervention. and outcome assessed by Glasgow Outcome score. 3 out of 5 patients had brownish fluid as a collection in subdural space while the other 2 patients had fluid that has motor oil like consistency in subdural space. All the patients were subjected to a similar procedure. The postoperative course was uneventful. Mean hospital stay was 7 days.  A postoperative scan was done on the 7th day.

Conclusion: Chronic Subdural Hematoma is a disease reported in infants and the elderly population. It is uncommon in the age group of 2-14 years. Most of the children present with symptoms of raised intracranial tension due to head injury, with no reported history of repeated head trauma, child abuse & coagulopathy. Traumatic Chronic subdural collection should be considered as one of the diagnoses as the prognosis of this disease is better. However, due to the scarcity of reports in the literature, established guidelines are not available.
Clinico-pathological features and molecular background of oligodendrogliomas
Authors: Popescu G. , Paslaru Francesca , Paslaru A. C. , Apostol M. , Zaharia M.C. , Popescu M. , Gorgan R. M.
Published: September 2023

Background: Diffuse gliomas are the most frequent primary central nervous system (CNS) neoplasms, originating from the parenchyma itself, oligodendrogliomas accounting for approximately 10% of cerebral gliomas. For the past 20 years, the study of genetic/molecular mechanisms of glioma genesis and progression has gradually come into focus. However, the biological and clinical significance of these mutations are still to be completely characterized. The purpose of this article is to describe our clinical experience with oligodendrogliomas and to review the current literature, in order to better describe the characteristics of the molecular/genetic oligodendroglioma subgroups.

Methods: We performed a single-institution retrospective study that included 66 patients with oligodendrogliomas operated in our department between January 2011 and December 2018.

Results: Our study included 26 female patients (39%) and 40 male patients (59%). The mean age at presentation was 39.9year-old (range 26-59year-old). The tumours were located predominantly in the right hemisphere (53%), the majority being situated in the frontal lobe (59%). 64% of the patients had signs of mass effect on the imaging studies, 13% presented with brain herniation syndromes, and 16 % of the surgically treated patients had a relapse with regrowth and malignant transformation of the tumour. The most common complaint that the patients had at admission was a headache. Seizures were the second most common symptom that determined the patients to seek medical attention.

Conclusion: The expanding knowledge regarding the genetic alterations of oligodendroglial tumours could lead to significant changes in treatment strategies. However, the utility of each particular marker in planning the treatment has yet to be established. Emerging data will, most likely, improve outcome prediction and adjuvant therapy strategies by identifying the patients most likely to benefit from a particular treatment.
Multimodal treatment of glomus jugular tumours
Authors: Stoica F. , Popescu G. , Paslaru Francesca , Gheorghiu Anamaria , Paslaru A.C. , Apostol M. , Zaharia M.C. , Gorgan R. M.
Published: September 2023

Glomus jugulare tumours are extremely rare, slow-growing, hypervascular tumours that arise within the jugular foramen of the temporal bone and frequently involve the lower cranial nerves. We performed a retrospective study for patients treated between January 2005 and December 2019, reviewing clinical and radiological data for 91 cases of glomus jugulare tumours. Data were available for 91 patients presenting with 96 tumours. Surgery was 1st intention of treatment for 13 cases, the endovascular approach was 1st intention for 6 cases and GKRS was primarily performed in 72 cases. Combined treatment options were used in 19 cases. The median age at the time of treatment was of 57 years. The tumour volume varied between 0.5 and 73.4 cm3 with a median value of 8.3 cm3. For the cases treated with GKRS, the peripheral dose ranged between 8 and 35 Gy on the 35% to 65% isodose, with a median of 14 Gy on the 45% isodose. The average follow-up was 38 months with a maximum of 94 and consisted of contrast-enhanced MRI every six months in the first year after the procedure and every 1 to 2 years afterwards. The overall tumour control rate was 95.6% using multimodal treatment options for glomus jugulare tumours. Multimodal treatment for glomus jugulare tumours offers the patient the chance for the best possible outcome and long-term survivability. An individual treatment approach for this kind of very rare head and neck tumour (0,6% of all head and neck tumours) is recommended to choose the best risk-versus-benefit treatment option.