bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An anthropologist’s voice in a veterinarian’s noise: gearing up for new cultural realities
Authors: Šterk Karmen , Brložnik Maja
Published: August 2023

Over the past three decades, the veterinary profession has faced a cultural shift towards postspeciesism that requires a reassessment of the foundations of the existing distinctions between human and non-human animals proclaimed by the speciesism paradigm, which represents institutionalized discrimination against species and recognizes only the subjectivity of humans. Based on ethnographic observations in anthropological fieldwork and using speciesism/postspeciesism distinction, we aimed to explain the main causes of small animal practitioners’ work-related stress and apply humanistic knowledge to recommend ways to alleviate the negative effects of the work environment. The explanatory model of disease, illness, and sickness, the example of the concept of family, and the circumstances of the feminization of the veterinary profession are discussed to illustrate the divergence between speciesist naturalistic veterinary knowledge and the postspeciesist cultural framework and its consequences. By failing to accommodate the changing values towards animals and by failing to challenge the anthropocentric hierarchy of values, the speciesist rationale of the veterinary profession contributes to many of the problems faced by practicing veterinarians. The incorporation of a modern moral-philosophical mindset towards animals may not even be possible because veterinary science is subject to a paradigm that is irreversibly tied to institutional discrimination against species and defies reflection on veterinary science itself. However, the veterinary profession has a privileged position in establishing an alternative ontological thinking and an alternative conception of “animal life.” Anthropological knowledge was applied to anticipate further intervention of social and cultural sciences in the problems of small animal practitioners. Rather than further diversifying and increasing expectations towards veterinarians by expecting them to acquire additional skills, we propose another practitioner who can support, mediate, and enhance veterinary performance – the cultural anthropologist. With their deep knowledge of cultural differences and social dynamics, they can collaborate with veterinarians to act as a liaison between cultures, paradigms, and species.
Evidence-Based Policy Recommendations for Public Health Emergency Operation Centers in Regional Settings: A Case Study in Indonesia
Authors: Hardhantyo Muhammad , Djasri Hanevi , Nursetyo Aldilas Achmad , Donna Bella , Ariani Madelina , Pangaribuan Happy , Yogadhita Gde Yulian , Yulianti Andriani , Adipradipta Bernadeta Rachela
Published: August 2023

Background: Public health emergencies require integration between multiple stakeholders in different sectors to monitor the situation and carry out an appropriate response. As a country with a large land area consisting of thousands of islands, Indonesia’s centralized Public Health Emergency Operation Center (PHEOC) system is currently unable to effectively contain diseases. A PHEOC system reform is required to accommodate Indonesia’s circumstances, particularly at the regional level. We have outlined potential models at the sub-national level for PHEOC based on existing evidence.

Policy Options and Recommendations: Based on existing evidence of PHEOC models internationally, we have formulated three policy models for regional-level PHEOC. These models (the ad hoc agency model, the independent agency model, and the Province Health Office (PHO)-based model) entail different chains of command, and each has its own benefits.

Conclusion: We recommend that the Ministry of Health in Indonesia adopt the third PHEOC policy model, in which the chain of command lies under the PHO. This is the most practical approach, as the PHO has the authority to mobilize units and access resources in response to imminent public health emergencies. Further training and capacity-building are required to support the PHO as the commander of the regional PHEOC.
Improved Organic Fertilisers Made from Combinations of Compost, Biochar, and Anaerobic Digestate: Evaluation of Maize Growth and Soil Metrics
Authors: Ortiz-Liébana Noemí , Crespo-Barreiro Andrea , Mazuecos-Aguilera Ismael , González-Andrés Fernando
Published: August 2023

Treated bio-residues can be used as biostimulants in crops within the circular economy approach to reduce the use of traditional fertilisers. In this work, we optimised the combination rates for three types of treated bio-residues (compost, biochar, and anaerobic digestate (AD)) in two microcosm trials, one with a combination of compost and biochar and other with biochar and AD. The crop used was maize, and the variables analysed were plant growth, and soil chemical and biological properties. The combination of bio-residues improved plant growth and soil biological activity to a greater extent than one product alone; that is, compost and biochar performed better than compost alone and biochar, and AD performed better than biochar alone. However, while the concentration in the plant biomass of several essential nutrients for crops increased in the treatments with compost and biochar, and with biochar and AD, compared to the untreated controls, the nitrogen concentration was reduced. This was due to the competition for nitrogen between the plant and the soil microbiome, whose activity was activated. Due to the importance of nitrogen in plant growth, the increase in biomass production could be explained not only by the higher availability of other nutrients but also by the plant-growth-promoting activity exerted by the more active soil microbiome. Further research should focus on validating this hypothesis and unravelling the mechanisms involved. From the environmental site, the presence of biochar in the mixtures of organic residues reduced the soil nitrogen at risk of lixiviation and sequestered carbon, which partially compensated for the increased CO2 emissions because labile forms of carbon were present in the remaining organic residues.
Application of Agri-Food By-Products in the Food Industry
Authors: Rațu Roxana Nicoleta , Veleșcu Ionuț Dumitru , Stoica Florina , Usturoi Alexandru , Arsenoaia Vlad Nicolae , Crivei Ioana Cristina , Postolache Alina Narcisa , Lipșa Florin Daniel , Filipov Feodor , Florea Andreea Mihaela , Chițea Mihai Alexandru , Brumă Ioan Sebastian
Published: August 2023

Every year, the global food industry produces a significant number of wastes and by-products from a variety of sources. By-products from the food-processing sector are produced in large quantities, and because of their undesirable qualities, they are frequently wasted, losing important resources. In order to pursue a circular economy that refers to waste reduction and effective waste management, by-products valorization recently received increased interest. By-products are rich in bioactive compounds and can be used in various industrial applications for health promotion and nutritional benefits. A novel step in its sustainable application is the use of these inexpensive waste agri-food by-products to create the value-added products. The present review intended to summarize the different types of agro-industrial by-products and their properties and highlight their nutritional composition and potential health benefits. Applications of agri-food by-products in foods as well as the potential health and sustainability implications of by-products in food products were also covered. According to research, agri-food by-products can be added to a variety of food to increase their bioactive profile, fiber content, and antioxidant capacity while maintaining good sensory acceptability. Overall, the sustainability of the agri-food chain and consumer health can both benefit from the use of agri-food by-products in food formulation.
A Study on the Impact of Different Cooling Methods on the Indoor Environment of Greenhouses Used for Lentinula Edodes during Summer
Authors: He Anhui , Wu Xiao , Jiang Xinfeng , Maimaitituxun Reyimei , Entemark Ayesha , Xu Hongjun
Published: August 2023

The shitake mushroom (lentinula edodes) industry in the Gobi Desert region of southern Xinjiang has experienced rapid development and has reached a certain scale. To clarify the laws governing different cooling methods in greenhouses and identify suitable cooling methods for mushroom production in the Gobi Desert region, this study focused on monitoring the environmental changes in greenhouses using three different cooling methods: natural ventilation cooling, water-sprinkling roof cooling, and a fan and pad cooling system. The results showed that when combined with external shading (shade netting), natural ventilation cooling, fan and pad cooling, and water-sprinkling roof cooling, respectively, reduced the air temperature by 8.6 °C, 14.0 °C, and 15.2 °C. They also increased the relative humidity by 15.3%, 43.3%, and 51.2%, resulting in cooling efficiencies of 28.5%, 56.3%, and 68.1%, respectively. The water-sprinkling roof cooling system demonstrated the best cooling effect and temperature uniformity and had higher economic benefits. Therefore, the use of the external sprinkler cooling method in double-skeleton greenhouses is suitable for summer lentinula edodes production in the Gobi Desert region of southern Xinjiang.
Dependency of Crops on Pollinators and Pollination Deficits: An Approach to Measurement Considering the Influence of Various Reproductive Traits
Authors: Layek Ujjwal , Baghira Nitol Krishna , Das Alokesh , Kundu Arijit , Karmakar Prakash
Published: August 2023

Pollinators provide crucial ecosystem services, i.e., pollination, which determines crops’ reproductive fitness and yield. As pollinators decline, flowering crops might face pollination-deficit stress depending on their dependence on pollinators and pollinator availability. Here, we assessed the dependency of some crops (belonging to diverse plant families) on biotic pollinators based on their maximum reproductive potential in a supplementary pollination treatment and minimum reproductive success in a pollinator exclusion treatment. Additionally, we determined the pollen transfer limitation of the crops in open field conditions. We also determined the influence of the different reproductive traits with the index of dependency of crops on pollinators (IDP) and the coefficient of pollination deficit (D). Based on the values of IDP, members of Cucurbitaceae are obligatorily dependent on pollinators for their fruit set. Members of Brassicaceae and Rutaceae are highly reliant on pollinators. A few crops, like Lablab purpureus and Nigella sativa, are less dependent on pollinators. In open field conditions, most crops have a low pollination deficit, some without pollen transfer limitations, and only a few crops (Citrus × limon and Citrus maxima) show a higher pollination deficit. The IDP is negatively influenced by the pollen–ovule ratio, which also negatively affects the pollination deficit of the crops. This study will be useful in understanding and mitigating the effects of pollinator losses, as well as in choosing crops (those under pollination deficit stress and largely dependent on pollinators for fruit set) for supplemental pollination services to increase agricultural production.
The Genetics, Genomics, and Breeding of Cereals and Grain Legumes: Traits and Technologies for Future Food Security
Authors: Nawaz Muhammad Amjad , Chung Gyuhwa , Golokhvast Kirill S.
Published: August 2023

According to the United Nations (UN), the world’s population is expected to grow by more than one billion people over the next 15 years [...]
Effects of Broccoli Rotation on Soil Microbial Community Structure and Physicochemical Properties in Continuous Melon Cropping
Authors: Liu Xiaodi , Ren Xuelian , Tang Shuangshuang , Zhang Zhaoran , Huang Yufei , Sun Yanqiu , Gao Zenggui , Ma Zhoujie
Published: August 2023

The limitations and weaknesses of continuous melon cropping have worsened in recent years. A melon–broccoli rotation can possibly alleviate the problems associated with melon monoculture; however, the underlying mechanisms and their impact on the rhizosphere’s soil microbial community remain unclear. Thus, high-throughput sequencing was used to evaluate the rhizosphere soil’s microbial community’s relative abundance and diversity under melon–broccoli rotation and continuous melon monoculture cropping systems. We found that relative fungal and bacterial diversity and richness increased while fungi relative abundances, such as Fusarium spp. were significantly decreased under broccoli rotation. During continuous cropping, enriched Acidobacteria and Streptomyces spp., Sphingomonas spp., and Pseudomonas spp. were identified, which play important roles in alleviating melon continuous cropping obstacles. The soil under continuous cropping was rendered acidic, underwent secondary salinization, rapidly accumulated soil organic carbon and nitrogen, and lost abundant phosphorus and potassium. In contrast, broccoli rotation partially mitigated these negative physicochemical responses. Redundancy analysis revealed that the soil pH, soil soluble salt content, and soil organic carbon were linked to structures of the soil bacterial and fungal community. Melon–broccoli rotation could effectively equilibrate the soil microenvironment and overcome the challenges and deficiencies associated with continuous melon cropping.
Insect Bite Hypersensitivity in Horses: Causes, Diagnosis, Scoring and New Therapies
Authors: Cox Abbey , Stewart Allison J.
Published: August 2023

Insect Bite Hypersensitivity (IBH, Queensland itch, sweet itch, equine summer eczema) is the most common pruritic disease of horses. It is most often caused by sensitivity to the saliva of Culicoides spp. of biting midges; however, it can also be caused by hypersensitivity to other insect species. The prevalence of IBH in horses is reported to be as high as 60% in some parts of the world. Due to the severe pruritus and effects of secondary self-trauma, IBH has animal welfare concerns, and there is currently no cure. Management of this condition is life-long, time consuming and costly. New grading systems to document disease severity are being validated, which will allow the comparison of clinical trial results of new and existing therapies. Management involves the minimisation of insect bites by use of stabling, fans, rugs and repellents. Symptomatic therapy involves the administration of systemic or topical corticosteroids, systemic antihistamines, and creams and sprays to promote skin healing and decrease inflammation. New immune-mediated therapeutics including vaccines, in addition to desensitisation procedures, show promise at controlling hypersensitivity reactions. This article will review aetiologic agents, pathophysiology, scoring systems and current and new therapies.
Feasibility of Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography in Dogs—A Post-Mortem Study
Authors: Rahmani Vahideh , Peltonen Juha , Amarilla Shyrley Paola , Hmelnikov Dmitri , Ruohoniemi Mirja , Spillmann Thomas
Published: August 2023

Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) is commonly used in humans and is also feasible in cats. The aim of this post-mortem study was to investigate the feasibility of MRCP in eight adult dogs by comparing the visibility and measured diameters of the biliary tract and pancreatic ducts in MRCP with those of fluoroscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (FRCP) and corrosion casting. In autopsy, six dogs had no evidence of hepatobiliary disorders, one had pancreatic pathology, and one had biliary pathology. The gallbladder (GB), cystic duct, and common bile duct (CBD) were visible in the MRCP images of all eight dogs. However, the extrahepatic ducts and pancreatic ducts were only variably visible. There was statistical agreement between MRCP and FRCP in measuring the diameters of the GB (fundus and body) and CBD (at papilla and extrahepatic ducts’ junction). The diameter measurements correlated between MRCP and corrosion casting. Our study showed that MRCP is feasible in dogs and allowed for proper visualization of the biliary tract. However, ducts with diameters of <1 mm were difficult to visualize using a 1.5 Tesla MRI machine. Further studies are warranted to apply MRCP in the diagnostic imaging of live dogs.
Cattle Target Segmentation Method in Multi-Scenes Using Improved DeepLabV3+ Method
Authors: Feng Tao , Guo Yangyang , Huang Xiaoping , Qiao Yongliang
Published: August 2023

Obtaining animal regions and the relative position relationship of animals in the scene is conducive to further studying animal habits, which is of great significance for smart animal farming. However, the complex breeding environment still makes detection difficult. To address the problems of poor target segmentation effects and the weak generalization ability of existing semantic segmentation models in complex scenes, a semantic segmentation model based on an improved DeepLabV3+ network (Imp-DeepLabV3+) was proposed. Firstly, the backbone network of the DeepLabV3+ model was replaced by MobileNetV2 to enhance the feature extraction capability of the model. Then, the layer-by-layer feature fusion method was adopted in the Decoder stage to integrate high-level semantic feature information with low-level high-resolution feature information at multi-scale to achieve more precise up-sampling operation. Finally, the SENet module was further introduced into the network to enhance information interaction after feature fusion and improve the segmentation precision of the model under complex datasets. The experimental results demonstrate that the Imp-DeepLabV3+ model achieved a high pixel accuracy (PA) of 99.4%, a mean pixel accuracy (MPA) of 98.1%, and a mean intersection over union (MIoU) of 96.8%. Compared to the original DeepLabV3+ model, the segmentation performance of the improved model significantly improved. Moreover, the overall segmentation performance of the Imp-DeepLabV3+ model surpassed that of other commonly used semantic segmentation models, such as Fully Convolutional Networks (FCNs), Lite Reduced Atrous Spatial Pyramid Pooling (LR-ASPP), and U-Net. Therefore, this study can be applied to the field of scene segmentation and is conducive to further analyzing individual information and promoting the development of intelligent animal farming.
Cost-Effective Protein Production in CHO Cells Following Polyethylenimine-Mediated Gene Delivery Showcased by the Production and Crystallization of Antibody Fabs
Authors: Meskova Klaudia , Martonova Katarina , Hrasnova Patricia , Sinska Kristina , Skrabanova Michaela , Fialova Lubica , Njemoga Stefana , Cehlar Ondrej , Parmar Olga , Kolenko Petr , Pevala Vladimir , Skrabana Rostislav
Published: August 2023

Laboratory production of recombinant mammalian proteins, particularly antibodies, requires an expression pipeline assuring sufficient yield and correct folding with appropriate posttranslational modifications. Transient gene expression (TGE) in the suspension-adapted Chinese Hamster Ovary (CHO) cell lines has become the method of choice for this task. The antibodies can be secreted into the media, which facilitates subsequent purification, and can be glycosylated. However, in general, protein production in CHO cells is expensive and may provide variable outcomes, namely in laboratories without previous experience. While achievable yields may be influenced by the nucleotide sequence, there are other aspects of the process which offer space for optimization, like gene delivery method, cultivation process or expression plasmid design. Polyethylenimine (PEI)-mediated gene delivery is frequently employed as a low-cost alternative to liposome-based methods. In this work, we are proposing a TGE platform for universal medium-scale production of antibodies and other proteins in CHO cells, with a novel expression vector allowing fast and flexible cloning of new genes and secretion of translated proteins. The production cost has been further reduced using recyclable labware. Nine days after transfection, we routinely obtain milligrams of antibody Fabs or human lactoferrin in a 25 mL culture volume. Potential of the platform is established based on the production and crystallization of antibody Fabs and their complexes.
Epidemiology of Carbapenem-Resistant Enterobacteriaceae Bacteremia in Gyeonggi Province, Republic of Korea, between 2018 and 2021
Authors: Lee Seung Hye , Kim Chan Hee , Lee Hee Young , Park Kun Hee , Han Su Ha
Published: August 2023

The incidence of carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) has been increasing since 2008, with Gyeonggi Province in South Korea being particularly vulnerable due to its large number of healthcare facilities. This study examines the trends of CRE occurrence in Gyeonggi Province over the past four years and the epidemiological characteristics of the infected patients. Patients with positive CRE blood cultures admitted to healthcare facilities in Gyeonggi Province from January 2018 to December 2021 were evaluated in this study. Risk factors for CRE-related death were analyzed using data from patients who died within 30 days of the last blood sampling. Older adults aged 70 years and above constituted the majority of patients with CRE bacteremia. Antibiotic use did not significantly affect mortality risk. Non-survivors were more common in tertiary hospitals and intensive care units and included patients with hypertension, malignant tumors, and multiple underlying diseases. Klebsiella pneumoniae was the most common CRE strain, with Klebsiella pneumoniae carbapenemase being the predominant carbapenemase. Our study suggests the endemicity of CRE in Gyeonggi Province and highlights the increasing isolation of CRE strains in South Korean long-term care hospitals within the province. Further, infection control measures and government support specific to each healthcare facility type are crucial.
The Contribution of Oxidative Stress to NF1-Altered Tumors
Authors: Kuhn Elisabetta , Natacci Federica , Corbo Massimo , Pisani Luigi , Ferrero Stefano , Bulfamante Gaetano , Gambini Donatella
Published: August 2023

The neurofibromatosis-1 gene (NF1) was initially characterized because its germline mutation is responsible for an inherited syndromic disease predisposing tumor development, in particular neurofibromas but also various malignancies. Recently, large-scale tumor sequencing efforts have demonstrated NF1 as one of the most frequently mutated genes in human cancer, being mutated in approximately 5–10% of all tumors, especially in malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors and different skin tumors. NF1 acts as a tumor suppressor gene that encodes neurofibromin, a large protein that controls neoplastic transformation through several molecular mechanisms. On the other hand, neurofibromin loss due to NF1 biallelic inactivation induces tumorigenic hyperactivation of Ras and mTOR signaling pathways. Moreover, neurofibromin controls actin cytoskeleton structure and the metaphase–anaphase transition. Consequently, neurofibromin deficiency favors cell mobility and proliferation as well as chromosomal instability and aneuploidy, respectively. Growing evidence supports the role of oxidative stress in NF1-related tumorigenesis. Neurofibromin loss induces oxidative stress both directly and through Ras and mTOR signaling activation. Notably, innovative therapeutic approaches explore drug combinations that further increase reactive oxygen species to boost the oxidative unbalance of NF1-altered cancer cells. In our paper, we review NF1-related tumors and their pathogenesis, highlighting the twofold contribution of oxidative stress, both tumorigenic and therapeutic.
A Review on the Impact of Oxidative Stress and Medicinal Plants on Leydig Cells
Authors: Monageng Elizabeth , Offor Ugochukwu , Takalani Ndivhuho Beauty , Mohlala Kutullo , Opuwari Chinyerum Sylvia
Published: August 2023

Leydig cells are essential for steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis. An imbalance in the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the cellular antioxidant level brings about oxidative stress. Oxidative stress (OS) results in the dysfunction of Leydig cells, thereby impairing steroidogenesis, spermatogenesis, and ultimately, male infertility. To prevent Leydig cells from oxidative insults, there needs to be a balance between the ROS production and the cellular protective capacity of antioxidants. Evidence indicates that medicinal plants could improve Leydig cell function at specific concentrations under basal or OS conditions. The increased usage of medicinal plants has been considered a possible alternative treatment for male infertility. This review aims to provide an overview of the impact of oxidative stress on Leydig cells as well as the effects of various medicinal plant extracts on TM3 Leydig cells. The medicinal plants of interest include Aspalathus linearis, Camellia sinensis, Moringa oleifera, Morinda officinale, Taraxacum officinale, Trichilia emetica, Terminalia sambesiaca, Peltophorum africanum, Ximenia caffra, Serenoa repens, Zingiber officinale, Eugenia jambolana, and a combination of dandelion and fermented rooibos (CRS-10). According to the findings obtained from studies conducted on the evaluated medicinal plants, it can, therefore, be concluded that the medicinal plants maintain the antioxidant profile of Leydig cells under basal conditions and have protective or restorative effects following exposure to oxidative stress. The available data suggest that the protective role exhibited by the evaluated plants may be attributed to their antioxidant content. Additionally, the use of the optimal dosage or concentration of the extracts in the management of oxidative stress is of the utmost importance, and the measurement of their oxidation reduction potential is recommended.
Aging, NRF2, and TAU: A Perfect Match for Neurodegeneration?
Authors: Brackhan Mirjam , Arribas-Blazquez Marina , Lastres-Becker Isabel
Published: August 2023

Although the trigger for the neurodegenerative disease process is unknown, the relevance of aging stands out as a major risk for the development of neurodegeneration. In this review, we highlighted the relationship between the different cellular mechanisms that occur as a consequence of aging and transcription factor nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 (NRF2) and the connection with the TAU protein. We focused on the relevance of NRF2 in the main processes involved in neurodegeneration and associated with aging, such as genomic instability, protein degradation systems (proteasomes/autophagy), cellular senescence, and stem cell exhaustion, as well as inflammation. We also analyzed the effect of aging on TAU protein levels and its aggregation and spread process. Finally, we investigated the interconnection between NRF2 and TAU and the relevance of alterations in the NRF2 signaling pathway in both primary and secondary tauopathies. All these points highlight NRF2 as a possible therapeutic target for tauopathies.
A Multilevel Switched Capacitor Inverter with Reduced Components and Self-Balance
Authors: Deng Zhengdong , Zhu Xiaoli , Duan Junpeng , Ye Juncheng , Wang Yaoqiang
Published: August 2023

This paper presents a novel 13-level switched capacitor multilevel inverter, which uses less devices to achieve six-fold voltage gain. The proposed topology structure consists of twelve transistors, two diodes, and three capacitors. It is worth mentioning that characteristics as having five complementary switch pairs and self-balanced electric capacity voltages are conducive to simplifying the control strategy. Moreover, the above components constitute the switched capacitor unit and L-type unit. The inverter can acquire more voltage levels and a higher voltage gain by using multiple L-type units with fewer elements. Furthermore, the cost function is employed to comprehensively appraise the performance of the proposed inverter. The comparison with other existing 13-level inverters shows that the proposed multilevel inverter can effectively decrease the value of the cost function. Finally, the simulation and experimental results are presented to demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of the 13-level inverter.
Synthesis, Characterization, Cytotoxicity, and Antibacterial Studies of Persea americana Mill. (Avocado) Seed Husk Mediated Hydronium Jarosite Nanoparticles
Authors: Botha Nandipha L. , Cloete Karen J. , Matinise Nolubabalo , David Oladipupo M. , Dube Admire , Maaza Malik
Published: August 2023

The application of nanotechnology in antimicrobial and cytotoxicity studies has recently been receiving increased interest. This paper report on the use of Persea americana Mill. (avocado) seed husk to synthesize hydronium jarosite nanoparticles in a facile, economical, and eco-friendly manner. We describe firstly the synthesis of hydronium jarosite nanoparticles using P. americana (avocado) seed husk aqueous extract as a reducing and chelating agent for the reduction of iron (II) sulfate heptahydrate. Secondly, we describe the characterization of the nanoproduct with scanning electron microscopy (SEM); energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX); high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM); X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) analysis; Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR); and, lastly, the cytotoxicity and antibacterial effect of hydronium jarosite nanoparticles using murine macrophage cells (Raw 264.7) cell lines, Gram-negative (Escherichia coli), Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus), and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. These hydronium jarosite avocado seed husk-mediated nanoparticle-coated 2D sheets did not show any antibacterial activity against the bacteria tested but did show concentration-dependent cytotoxicity. Further research is required to optimize the antibacterial properties and reduce the cytotoxicity of this nanomaterial synthesized using green nanochemistry.
Grey Fuzzy Comprehensive Evaluation of Bridge Risk during Periods of Operation Based on a Combination Weighting Method
Authors: Qin Xiantao , Zha Xianlai , Wu Zhongheng , Zhang Lei
Published: August 2023

Bridge safety during operating periods is a primary concern worldwide, and the evaluation of bridge risks is a critical aspect of ensuring bridge safety. The most common methods used for bridge risk evaluations include fuzzy comprehensive evaluations, grey system theory, fault tree analysis, the Kent index method, and data envelopment analysis. However, these approaches are highly subjective and have uneven distributions when determining the weights of risk indicators. To improve the accuracy and feasibility of bridge risk evaluations for a given period of operation, we first establish bridge risk indicators and assign subjective weights to each indicator based on an analytic hierarchy process. Additionally, objective weights are assigned to each indicator according to an entropy weighting method. Then, the combined weights of each risk indicator are obtained by applying game theory principles. This enables the construction of a degree of membership matrix comprising these risk indicators, which is established according to an expert grading method and grey fuzzy theory. Finally, the evaluation results vector is calculated, allowing the risk level of a bridge to be assessed according to the principle of the maximum degree of membership. Overall, this study provides a more accurate and objective method for evaluating bridge risk during a given period of operation.
Life-Cycle Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions Calculation for Urban Rail Transit Systems: The Case of Pernambuco Metro
Authors: Da Fonseca-Soares Diogo , Eliziário Sayonara Andrade , Galvinicio Josicleda Domiciano , Ramos-Ridao Angel Fermin
Published: August 2023

In recent years, the issue of climate change has gained significant attention and become a focal point of discussion in various sectors of civil society. Governments, individuals, and scientists worldwide are increasingly concerned about the observed changes in climate patterns, often attributed to the rising levels of greenhouse gases. In this context, the main objective of this study is to assess the greenhouse gas emissions associated with the railway system in the state of Pernambuco, Brazil, and compare them with other national case studies, aiming to obtain greenhouse gas emission parameters specific to the railway system and propose mitigation models to address this environmental impact in the air. To achieve this goal, a comprehensive life cycle assessment (LCA) methodology was employed to examine the life cycle of the Pernambuco Metro. This involved conducting an inventory of resource inputs and emissions using actual observed data. Additionally, a comparative analysis of greenhouse gas emissions across different urban rail transport systems is presented to provide valuable contextual insights. The study findings reveal that the total greenhouse gas emissions from the Pernambuco rail system amount to 6170.54 t CO2e. Considering a projected total service life of 50 years, the estimated greenhouse gas emissions for the entire life cycle of the system’s operation and maintenance reach 308,550 t CO2e. The interdisciplinary nature of this research highlights the significance of studying the atmospheric effects of the Pernambuco railway system as a crucial parameter for designing strategies and technologies aimed at reducing air pollution within the region. Through quantifying and analyzing the greenhouse gas emissions of the Pernambuco rail system, this study provides valuable insights that contribute to addressing concerns related to climate change and promoting sustainable practices. It underscores the importance of developing effective strategies to mitigate air pollution and facilitates informed decision-making for the future of urban transportation systems.
Effect of Textural Properties on the Degradation of Bisphenol from Industrial Wastewater Effluent in a Photocatalytic Reactor: A Modeling Approach
Authors: Alsaffar May Ali , Ghany Mohamed Abdel Rahman Abdel , Mageed Alyaa K. , AbdulRazak Adnan A. , Ali Jamal Manee , Sukkar Khalid A. , Ayodele Bamidele Victor
Published: August 2023

Conventional treatment methods such as chlorination and ozonation have been proven not to be effective in eliminating and degrading contaminants such as Bisphenol A (BPA) from wastewater. Hence, the degradation of BPA using a photocatalytic reactor has received a lot of attention recently. In this study, a model-based approach using a multilayer perceptron neural network (MLPNN) coupled with back-propagation, as well as support vector machine regression coupled with cubic kernel function (CSVMR) and Gaussian process regression (EQGPR) coupled with exponential quadratic kernel function, were employed to model the relationship between the textural properties such as pore volume (Vp), pore diameter (Vd), crystallite size, and specific surface area (SBET) of erbium- and iron-modified TiO2 photocatalysts in degrading BPA. Parametric analysis revealed that effective degradation of the Bisphenol up to 90% could be achieved using photocatalysts having textural properties of 150 m2/g, 8 nm, 7 nm, and 0.36 cm3/g for SBET, crystallite size, particle diameter, and pore volume, respectively. Fifteen architectures of the MPLNN models were tested to determine the best in terms of predictability of BPA degradation. The performance of each of the MLPNN models was measured using the coefficient of determination (R2) and root mean squared errors (RMSE). The MLPNN architecture comprised of 4 input layers, 14 hidden neurons, and 3 output layers displayed the best performance with R2 of 0.902 and 0.996 for training and testing. The 4-14-3 MLPNN robustly predicted the BPA degradation with an R2 of 0.921 and RMSE of 4.02, which is an indication that a nonlinear relationship exists between the textural properties of the modified TiO2 and the degradation of the BPA. The CSVRM did not show impressive performance as indicated by the R2 of 0.397. Therefore, appropriately modifying the textural properties of the TiO2 will significantly influence the BPA degradability.
Research on the Dynamics of the Space Tubular Expandable Structure Driving Deployment Unit
Authors: Huang Weiqi , Guan Yingjun , Wang Hao , Lu Huanquan , Yang Huisheng
Published: August 2023

The limitations associated with traditional screw-based and cable-based deployment mechanisms for space deployable structures, such as deployment stiffness, accuracy, and distance, are effectively overcome by introducing the concept of a variable diameter internal drive device. To enhance stability during the discontinuous surface transition phase inside the tubular structure, a thin-walled flexible beam structure is adopted for the driving deployment unit. The analysis employs the spatial absolute nodal coordinate formulation, integrating the pose states of each node into the global coordinate system. The three-dimensional displacement field and rotational angle changes at different time intervals are obtained using the unit shape function matrix and Kirchhoff theory. Subsequently, a dynamic model of the corresponding spatial nodes is established using the virtual work principle. This significant improvement enhances the dynamic characteristics of the coupled rigid-flexible deformation of the driving deployment unit under radial and axial external forces, surpassing the previously used flexible beam structure. The dynamic simulation analysis is performed using the finite element method and validated through experimental tests. The experimental results confirm the driving deployment unit’s stability and successful achievement of the desired functionalities, as demonstrated by the endpoint displacement, three-dimensional centroid displacement, and trajectory rotation angle.
The Deformation Law of a Soft-Rock Cavern by Step Excavation in a Pumped Storage Power Station
Authors: Sun Ning , Li Xiaokai , Li Shanggao , Hu Dake , Hu Mengjiao , Zhang Faming , Zhong Yiyan , Dong Menglong , Li Zinan
Published: August 2023

The surrounding rock stability of large underground caverns in a pumped storage power station is one of the most crucial problems in hydropower project design and construction. In the construction of hydropower projects in Southwest China, many underground soft-rock caverns in are excavated. Influenced by the high sidewall, high ground stress, large burial depth, and hydrodynamic pressure action, the deformation of the cavern is special, especially in terms of its soft-rock distribution. At present, most research of underground engineering on soft-rock stability focuses on small-scale tunnel excavations in homogeneous geological conditions, with limited studies on the large-scale excavation of deeply buried underground powerhouses in complex geological structures, featuring extensive soft-rock-layer exposure on the cavern wall. Therefore, it is particularly important to investigate the excavation method of and support measures for soft-rock caverns under complex geological conditions. Based on laboratory rock mechanics testing (petrographic analysis, uniaxial compressive strength tests, shear tests, and triaxial compression creep tests) and the distribution characteristics of the surrounding soft-rock layer of the proposed underground powerhouse, obtained from the survey, we discuss the excavation and support measurements. These include the influence of support measures on the deformation of the underground excavated cavern considering the inclination of rock layers, the impact of the excavation under supported conditions on the deformation of the underground cavern, and the correlation between the lining thickness and stress variation within the lining.
Analysis of Adolescents’ Head to Shoulder Region during Tablet Use from Sagittal and Frontal RGB Images
Authors: Kramer Ivanna , Bauer Sabine
Published: August 2023

As schools go digital, the use of tablet computers is increasing. Concerns are raised that the extensive use of tablets and the associated bent-over posture may negatively affect the individual’s health. In order to analyse the possible effects of prolonged tablet use on physical health, a detailed analysis of the posture during tablet use is needed so that appropriate preventive measures can be taken to prevent degenerative changes. Therefore, the aim of this study was to measure and report the posture of 56 students while working with a tablet computer and compare it with an upright posture. Sagittal and frontal images were used for measurements of the subjects’ postures while seated, using the tablet, and in a neutral sitting position looking straight ahead. The body position during tablet use was recorded in two different user configurations: tablet flat on the table and tablet in individual freely chosen user configuration. After appropriate annotation of the data, the following parameters were evaluated in different planes. The craniovertebral angle (CVA), head tilt angle (HTA), and forward shoulder angle (FSA) are measurements that describe the extent to which the head bends forward and downward and how the shoulders are aligned in the sagittal plane. On the other hand, the head shoulder angle (HSA), lateral head tilt angle (LHTA), and trunk flexion angle (TFA) are angles measured in the frontal plane, which indicate the degree of head tilt and trunk bending to the right or left side. The measurement results clearly showed that the use of a tablet had a pronounced effect on the positions and rotations of the participants’ head, neck, and shoulders. This was evident through strong deviations observed in the angles measured between the sitting straight posture and the postures while using the tablet. For example, depending on the body posture class, the mean CVA values were 45.76° for straight sitting posture, 28.25° for holding the tablet individually posture, and 26.04° for the posture adopted while using a tablet placed flat on the table.
In-Situ Alloy-Modified Sodiophilic Current Collectors for Anode-Less Sodium Metal Batteries
Authors: Cheng Xiaolong , Li Dongjun , Peng Shen , Shi Pengcheng , Yu Huili , Jiang Yu , Li Shikuo
Published: August 2023

Anode-less sodium metal batteries have drawn dramatica attention owing to their high specific energy and low cost. However, the growth of sodium dendrites and the resulting loss of active materials and serious safety concerns hinder their practical applications. In this work, a bismuth-based modification layer with good sodiophilicity is constructed on the surface of Cu foil (denoted as Cu@Bi) to control the deposition of Na metal. The activation-derived porous Na-rich alloy phase can provide abundant nucleation sites and reduce the nucleation overpotential to induce the uniform and dense deposition of Na metal. When evaluated in half cell, the Cu@Bi current collectors can operate for 750 h at 1 mA cm−2 and 1 mAh cm−2, with an average coulombic efficiency (CE) of 99.5%. When the current density is improved to 2 mA cm−2, the Cu@Bi can also stably maintain for 750 cycles, demonstrating the remarkable effect of the modification layer. When coupled with the Na3V2(PO4)3 cathode, the full cell exhibits stable cycle performance over 80 cycles. The modification strategy of alloy modification can provide fresh ideas for the research and application of anode-less and even anode-free metal batteries.
Autophagy/Mitophagy in Airway Diseases: Impact of Oxidative Stress on Epithelial Cells
Authors: Albano Giusy Daniela , Montalbano Angela Marina , Gagliardo Rosalia , Profita Mirella
Published: August 2023

Autophagy is the key process by which the cell degrades parts of itself within the lysosomes. It maintains cell survival and homeostasis by removing molecules (particularly proteins), subcellular organelles, damaged cytoplasmic macromolecules, and by recycling the degradation products. The selective removal or degradation of mitochondria is a particular type of autophagy called mitophagy. Various forms of cellular stress (oxidative stress (OS), hypoxia, pathogen infections) affect autophagy by inducing free radicals and reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation to promote the antioxidant response. Dysfunctional mechanisms of autophagy have been found in different respiratory diseases such as chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD) and asthma, involving epithelial cells. Several existing clinically approved drugs may modulate autophagy to varying extents. However, these drugs are nonspecific and not currently utilized to manipulate autophagy in airway diseases. In this review, we provide an overview of different autophagic pathways with particular attention on the dysfunctional mechanisms of autophagy in the epithelial cells during asthma and COPD. Our aim is to further deepen and disclose the research in this direction to stimulate the develop of new and selective drugs to regulate autophagy for asthma and COPD treatment.
Neurogenic Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms, Fatigue, and Depression—Are There Correlations in Persons with Multiple Sclerosis?
Authors: Jaekel Anke K. , Watzek Julius , Nielsen Jörn , Butscher Anna-Lena , Zöhrer Pirmin , Schmitz Franziska , Kirschner-Hermanns Ruth K. M. , Knüpfer Stephanie C.
Published: August 2023

The symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS) frequently include fatigue, depression, and neurogenic lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), causing severe burdens on affected individuals. The relationships between these symptoms have not been intensively researched and there are no studies on the detailed influence of the different neurogenic LUTS. We aimed to investigate the relationships between fatigue, depression, and neurogenic LUTS as recorded in bladder diaries by persons with MS. We analyzed the bladder diaries of 274 people and their scores on the Fatigue Scale for Motor and Cognitive Functions and the Centre for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (German version). The neurogenic LUTS were defined as urgency, reduced voided volume, increased standardized voiding frequency, nocturia, and urinary incontinence. Those suffering from incontinence, nocturia, reduced voided volume, or urgency had higher fatigue scores compared to those without these symptoms. Those with nocturia showed significantly higher scores for depression. The severity of urgency and voided volume had the greatest effect on the severity of individuals’ fatigue and depression levels. With increasing urgency, the risk of clinically significant fatigue and depression was expected to increase. Urgency and voided volume correlated most with fatigue and depression. A prospective longitudinal study investigating fatigue/depression after the successful treatment of neurogenic LUTS is needed to clarify causality and offer possible treatment options for fatigue and depression.