bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
E-Waste-An Emerging Public Health Threat: Bangladesh Perspective
Authors: Islam Shafiqul
Published: October 2023

Electronic waste or e-waste is emerging as a major public health threat worldwide including Bangladesh because of rapid advances in technology leading to the generation of large amount of wastes and a lack of knowledge in handling of these wastes. The present review discusses the existing e-waste problem in Bangladesh, as a public health concern, and necessary recommendations to have effective e-waste management. This is a traditional review study. The burden of e-waste, regulations and its impact on health at the global and country level were identified using various search engines such as PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus and ScienceDirect. Books, case studies, legislation documents, reports, original articles and other documents from international organizations and specific governmental agency websites were retrieved. Out of more than 100 research articles on e-waste and health impact in total, 45 original articles, reports, case studies and documents were used for this review. About 400,000 tonnes of electronic waste have been generated across the country in 2018 and that the amount grows by 20% every year. The generation of e-waste rate in Bangladesh has surpassed 72 million tons, which is a 33% increase over the previous decade. According to a study report by Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET), e-waste volumes in Bangladesh will rise to 4,62 million tonnes by 2035. Harmful contents of e-waste mainly include lead, cadmium, mercury, chromium, copper, nickel, lithium, Beryllium long term exposure of which may cause health effects like damage to brain, kidney, liver, nervous systems, blood systems, endocrine system, reproductive system and produce stomach cramps, allergic dermatitis, asthma, bronchitis and also develop life threatening disease like cancer. The current review shows that the e-waste poses a serious public health threat leading to significant environmental and health risks. Most of the developing countries including Bangladesh were found to be lagging behind in the implementation of environmentally sound formal recycling processes. Hence, a better life cycle assessment model which have been successfully implemented in other developing countries should be introduced in Bangladesh.
JOPSOM 2021; 41(1):41-48
Türkiye’de Yaşlı Sığınmacıların Gereksinimleri, Karşılaştıkları Güçlükler ve Sunulan Hizmetlere İlişkin Bilgileri
Authors: Kaygusuz Serhat , Buz Sema
Published: October 2023

Bu çalışma Türkiye’ye göç etmiş yaşlı sığınmacıların göç süreci ve sonrası karşılaştıkları güçlükleri, gereksinimlerini ve Türkiye’de sunulan hizmetlere ilişkin görüşlerini analiz etmektedir. Araştırma, nitel yöntemle Bursa’da yürütülmüş olup 10 kadın ile 6 erkekten oluşan 60 yaş üzeri farklı ülkelerden Türkiye’ye göç etmiş 16 kişiden derinlemesine görüşmeler ile veriler toplanmıştır. Araştırma bulguları katılımcıların tamamının göç sonrası barınma sorunları ve ekonomik yetersizlikler yaşadığını, bu sorunlar nedeniyle tümünün çocukları ve diğer aile üyelerine bağımlı durumda olduklarını; göç süreci ve sonrasında bazı katılımcıların sağlık sorunlarının ortaya çıktığını, göç sonrasında yerel toplumla bütünleşme ve uyum konusunda farklı stratejiler geliştirdiklerini göstermektedir. Türkçe bilme düzeyi fark etmeksizin yaşlı sığınmacıların tamamının dil ile ilgili sorunlarını çocukları, torunları ve diğer yakınları aracılığıyla aşmaya çalıştıkları görülmüştür. Bulgular değerlendirildiğinde katılımcıların hizmetlere erişim sorunları yaşadıkları ve Türkiye’deki refah hizmetlerinin yaşlı sığınmacıların gereksinimlerinin karşılanması noktasında yetersiz kaldığı görülmüştür.
Kırsalda Yaşayan Yaşlıların Yoksulluk Durumları ve Yoksullukla Baş Etme Biçimleri: Satılar Köyü Örneği
Authors: Tamkoç Betül , Sürsavur Latife , Erdemir Turgut Asiye , Karataş Kasım
Published: October 2023

Yaşın ilerlemesiyle emeklilik vb. nedenlerle gelir azalmakta iken yaşa bağlı sağlık sorunları nedeniyle bakım ihtiyacı ve giderler artmaktadır. Bu durum yaşlıların yoksullaşmasına neden olmaktadır. Bütün nüfus gruplarını olumsuz etkileyen yoksulluk, yaşlı nüfus gibi bazı nüfus gruplarını daha fazla etkilemektedir. Bununla birlikte yoksulluk deneyimi yaşanılan bölgenin özelliklerine göre değişiklik göstermektedir. Bu çalışmanın amacı, kırsalda yaşayan yaşlıların, yoksulluk durumları ve yoksullukla baş etme biçimlerinin açığa çıkarılmasıdır. Nitel araştırma tasarımı kullanılan bu araştırmada, Ankara ili Kalecik ilçesine bağlı Satılar Köyü’ndeki 65 yaş üstü 12 yaşlı ile yüz yüze görüşmeler gerçekleştirilmiştir. Görüşmelerde araştırmacılar tarafından geliştirilen yarı yapılandırılmış görüşme formu, verilerin çözümlenmesinde MAXQDA 2020 programı kullanılmıştır. Araştırma sonuçlarına göre “aile ve sosyal ilişkiler”, “yaşlıların karşılaştıkları sorunlar”, “yaşlıların yoksullukla baş etme biçimleri”, “yaşlıların hizmet beklentileri” ve “toplumsal cinsiyet odağında yaşlıların durumları” olmak üzere 6 tema belirlenmiştir. Araştırmada, kırsalda yaşayan yaşlıların aile ve sosyal çevreleri ile ilişkilerinin güçlü olduğu, ileri yaşlarına rağmen üretime devam ettikleri, kendilerini yoksul olarak nitelendirmedikleri, sağlık hizmetlerine erişimde sorunlar yaşadıkları, kadınların erkeklere kıyasla yoksulluğu daha derinden deneyimledikleri sonuçları elde edilmiştir.
Geleneksel Toplumsal Cinsiyet Rolleri Bağlamında Ortopedik Engelli Kadınların Görünmezliği ve Toplumsal Cinsiyetsizleştirilmeleri
Authors: Şakar Özlem , Kahraman Güloğlu Fatma
Published: October 2023

Geleneksel toplumsal cinsiyet kadın rollerini yerine getirmede engelli kadınlara atfedilen negatif imajlar onların kadın olma kimliklerini olumsuz etkilemektedir. Ortopedik engelli kadınların bedenlerindeki görünür yeti yitimleri onlara atfedilen bu imajlarla birleştiğinde sınırlı bir yaşam alanı içerisinde kalmalarına, toplumda görünmez olmalarına ve bir anlamda toplumsal cinsiyetsizleştirilmelerine neden olmaktadır. Bu araştırmanın amacı geleneksel toplumsal cinsiyet rolleri bağlamında ortopedik engelli kadınların görünmezliğini, toplumsal cinsiyetsizleştirilmelerini ve bu durumun onların sosyal yaşamları üzerindeki etkisini kendi deneyimleri ve fikirleri üzerinden keşfetmektir. Çalışma nitel araştırma desenlerinden fenomenolojiyle yürütülmüştür. Veriler yarı yapılandırılmış görüşme formu kullanılarak 14 ortopedik engelli kadınla gerçekleştirilen görüşmelerden elde edilmiş, MAXQDA programıyla analiz edilmiştir. Araştırmada ortopedik engelli kadınların kadın olma rollerinde evlenemez, anne olamaz, erkeğe eş olamaz şeklindeki negatif imajlarla görünmez oldukları; bu durumun sosyal yaşamlarında hayattan soyutlanma ve görünmezliğe neden olduğu, engelli kimliğini öne çıkardığı; toplumsal cinsiyetsizleştirmenin daha çok psikolojik şiddet olarak anlamlandırıldığı; çoğunluğun güncel olarak bedenlerine ve toplumsal cinsiyetlerine uygun olarak yaşayabildiği; deneyimi veya fikri olanların çoğunluğuna göre üreme ve cinsel sağlık hakkına erişimde toplumsal cinsiyetçi yapının etkisi olduğu; toplumsal hayata katılımın artması için özellikle toplumsal farkındalığın artırılması, erişilebilirlik ve sağlık alanında iyileştirilmelerin yapılması, istihdama ilişkin düzenlemelerin yapılması, engelli kadınlara özel eğitimlerin verilmesi, sosyal yardımların artırılması, engelli kadınlara psiko-sosyal destek verilmesi gerektiği sonuçlarına ulaşılmıştır.
Smoking and alcohol consumption impact on development and distribution of ulcerative colitis in adult patients among West Siberia Region population
Authors: Bikbavova G. R. , Livzan M. A. , Tikhonravova D. V. , Tretyakova T. V. , Panova T. Yu.
Published: October 2023

Despite the prolonged history of study of ulcerative colitis (UC) its precise aetiology is still unknown. Smoking impact on UC development has been revealed several decades ago and is being discussed due to the exact mechanism of tobacco smoke components to affect colonic mucosa hasn’t been discovered. Alcohol consumption role in UC development isn’t completely understood as well. Researches into the potential risk factors including pernicious habits are of interest as it allows the development of preventive measures and early diagnosis.

Objective. To evaluate the correlation between smoking, alcohol consumption and UC development in adult patients among West Siberia region population

Material and methods. It has been conducted a case-control study from 2017 to 2022. The case series and matched controls included 157 UC patients and 56 healthy respondents respectively. Information was obtained through a written questionnaire.

Results. Ulcerative colitis development odds in patients who quit smoking is 3.8 times higher. Disease debut in 48 % of patients occurred 5 or more years after quitting smoking. Extensive colitis was observed more often in patients with smoking history and left-sided colitis predominated in nonsmoking patients. There's no correlation between smoking history duration and UC distribution. Average amount of wine consumed in controls was almost three times higher than in UC patients.

Conclusions. Smoking is not only considered as a trigger that can potentially cause UC regardless the number of cigarettes. Extensive colitis has been observed more often in smoking patients and the ones who quit smoking. Wine consumption up to 20 ml per day may have a protective effect against UC.
Comparative analysis of prevalence of metabolic types of urolithiasis in Stavropol Region
Authors: Frantsev R. S. , Makarov K. S. , Redko Yu. P. , Pavlenko I. V.
Published: October 2023

Relevance. The treatment and prophylaxis of urolithiasis are one of the urgent problems of modern medicine. In Russia in recent decades a tendency to the increase in urolithiasis prevalence has been noted, and the incidence of urolithiasis varies in different regions. This may be due to lifestyle features and chemical composition of water in different regions of the country.

The aim of the study. To analyze the chemical composition of concrements in patients treated for urolithiasis in the Stavropol Region.

Methods. Using infrared (IR) spectroscopy 565 concrements were studied. Analysis of the obtained data showed that calcium-oxalate stones were the most common (72.80 %), followed by urate stones (19.40 %) and then phosphate stones (6.09 %). Cystine (0.70 %) and xanthine type stones (0.17 %) are the least common.

Conclusions. The preventive measures aimed at restriction of the consumption of food containing high oxalates and purines, as well as use of water low in calcium and with alkaline reaction will decrease the incidence of urolithiasis at the regional level.
Constipation syndrome and its treatment
Authors: Kutsenko V. P. , Kovaleva D. D. , Ivanyk E. S. , Seliverstov P. V.
Published: October 2023

The relevance of the problem of HC is also related to the issues of etiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, conservative and surgical treatment. To date, none of the many proposed methods of conservative and surgical treatment has one hundred percent effectiveness. According to literature data, there are no official epidemiological data at the federal level on the prevalence of chronic constipation in Russia. On the territory of the Russian Federation, the diagnosis is made according to the leading clinical disease, syndrome and/or symptom corresponding to ICD 10 – K59.0 – constipation. Modern scientific evidence suggests that the detection of metabolic disorders, chronic constipation, and microbiota disorders in a patient should be regarded as clinical and pathogenetic links of a single pathological process.
Assessing the Ability of a “Free and Open Indo-Pacific” Strategy: To Maintain the Status-Quo in the Western Pacific and Indian Oceans
Authors: Dahal Gaurav Raja
Published: October 2023

China’s rising power and challenge to the status quo of the rules-based international order had led several nations, primarily Japan and the United States, to pursue a “Free and Open Indo-Pacific” strategy. However, such a strategy was predicated upon multilateral support.  Was such a strategy viable?  The research focuses on this fundamental question, applying various IR theories to the strategy.  This paper hypothesizes that if multilateralism was successful, the FOIP strategy was viable. The significance of this research is that it may suggest necessary changes to the existing FOIP strategy or may validate its trajectory.  Either way, the research provides both academic and policy significance.
Making Charcoal from Nipah (Nypa fruticans) Frond Waste as an Adsorbent to Extend the Shelf Life of Fresh Bread
Authors: Nur Sabila Ayu , Rahayu Theresia Evila Purwanti Sri , Prasadi Oto
Published: October 2023

Fresh bread has high potential for creating food waste that increases every year, because of its relatively short shelf life of 3-4 days after leaving the baking process. One way to extend the shelf life of bread is by using charcoal. Nipah fronds contain lignin elements that are good for charcoal. This study aims to determine the characteristics of charcoal from nipah fronds, the effectiveness of charcoal's ability to extend the shelf life of fresh bread, the effect of burning time, particle size and adsorbent mass on the storage time of fresh bread, the effect of the ratio of nipah frond adsorbent to commercial silica gel on the storage time compared to quality requirements of fresh bread of SNI 01-3840-1995 2013. Charcoal characterization includes quality tests based on SNI No. 06-3730-1995 on technical charcoal, namely water content and iodine absorption parameters and also Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) test. Based on the results of the study, charcoal from nipah frond waste has characteristics of water content that have met the quality standards of SNI 06-3730-1995 and in iodine absorbency only samples with pyrolysis time of 4 hours that have met the quality standards of SNI 06-3730-1995. Giving variations in charcoal burning time, mass and particle size of adsorbent powder affects the shelf life and quality requirements of fresh bread. Adsorbent packaging using teabags and silica gel paper can extend the shelf life of fresh bread up to 27 hours compared to those without adsorbent.
Conceptual similarity and visual metaphor: effects on viewing times, appreciation, and recall
Authors: Lagerwerf Luuk , Van Mulken Margot , Lagerwerf Jefta B.
Published: October 2023

Different levels of conceptual similarity in equivalent visual structures may determine the way meaning is attributed to images. The degree to which two depicted objects are of the same kind limits interpretive possibilities. In the current research, visual hyponyms (objects of the same kind) were contrasted with visual metaphors and unrelated object pairs. Hyponyms are conceptually more similar than metaphor's source and target, or two unrelated objects. Metaphorically related objects share a ground for comparison that lacks between unrelated objects. We expected viewers to interpret hyponyms more quickly than metaphors or unrelated objects. For liking, there were competing predictions: hyponyms are appreciated more because they are easier, or metaphors are liked more because successful cognitive effort is rewarded. In the first experiment viewers were asked to identify relationships in 27 object pairs. Hyponyms were identified faster than metaphors and metaphors faster than unrelated objects. In the second experiment, with the same materials, viewers were asked to rate appreciation for each object pair. This reduced viewing times substantially. Appreciation was higher for hyponyms than for visual metaphors. In a third experiment with the same materials, exposure duration was varied. Hyponyms were preferred to metaphors and unrelated objects irrespective of exposure duration.
Vacancy analysis and layout optimization of Changdao natural protected area from the perspective of multi-objective collaboration
Authors: He Shuai , Xia Tao , Luo Meixue , Li Wenwen , Zhang Junxin , Li Yanxiang , Chen Shang
Published: October 2023

Research on vacancy analysis and spatial layout of protected natural areas has been carried out for many years around the world, but most of the research objects are land-type protected natural areas, while studies on Marine protected natural areas are relatively rare, and there are few cases to carry out integrated optimization research on spatial layout of protected natural areas. This study will take Changdao in Yantai, Shandong Province, China as an example, from the protection of how much? How representative? Where is it protected? Starting from the three problems, the vacancy analysis is carried out, and the integrated optimization research is carried out based on the existing spatial layout, aiming at the rescue protection, coordinated protection and forward-looking protection. The results show that the integrated and optimized Changdao protected area eliminates the protection vacancy, integrates the overlapping protected areas, optimizes the unreasonable protected space, alleviates the contradiction between protection and development, promotes the coordinated development of ecology and economy and society, and can provide a scientific reference for the integrated and optimized spatial layout of Marine protected areas.
Covid-19, leukemia, and secondary malignancies of the skin – is there a connection: a case report and literature analysis
Authors: Bogomolets Olga , Rojczyk Ewa , Hryshchenko Roman , Bogomolets Catherine , Berezkin Oleksandr
Published: October 2023

We report the case of a patient who was diagnosed with two melanomas and one skin cancer within two years. Of particular interest was the fact, that at the time these tumors were diagnosed, the patient was already suffering from chronic myeloid leukemia, which developed three months after recovering from Covid-19. From the time of leukemia occurrence, the patient has been taking the tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) - Gleevec. Thus, we took into the account the possibile effect of Gleevec administration on the risk of skin tumor appearance. It was also important to analyze the impact of the SARS-CoV-2 virus and chronic myeloid leukemia on the risk of secondary malignancies. According to so far published data, the direct relationship between Gleevec treatment and the occurrence of skin cancers cannot be proved. However, literature data indicate a direct and indirect relationship between SARS-CoV-2 infection and an increased incidence of carcinogenesis.
Neural underpinnings of threat bias in relation to loss-of-control eating behaviors among adolescent girls with high weight
Authors: Byrne Meghan E. , Tanofsky-Kraff Marian , Liuzzi Lucrezia , Holroyd Tom , Parker Megan N. , Bloomer Bess F. , Nugent Allison , Brady Sheila M. , Yang Shanna B. , Turner Sara A. , Pine Daniel S. , Yanovski Jack A.
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Loss-of-control (LOC) eating, a key feature of binge-eating disorder, may relate attentional bias (AB) to highly salient interpersonal stimuli. The current pilot study used magnetoencephalography (MEG) to explore neural features of AB to socially threatening cues in adolescent girls with and without LOC-eating.

Methods

Girls (12–17 years old) with overweight or obesity (BMI >85th percentile) completed an AB measure on an affective dot-probe AB task during MEG and evoked neural responses to angry or happy (vs. neutral) face cues were captured. A laboratory test meal paradigm measured energy intake and macronutrient consumption patterns.

Results

Girls (N = 34; Mage = 15.5 ± 1.5 years; BMI-z = 1.7 ± 0.4) showed a blunted evoked response to the presentation of angry face compared with neutral face cues in the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, a neural region implicated in executive control and regulation processes, during attention deployment (p < 0.01). Compared with those without LOC-eating (N = 21), girls with LOC-eating (N = 13) demonstrated a stronger evoked response to angry faces in the visual cortex during attention deployment (p < 0.001). Visual and cognitive control ROIs had trends suggesting interaction with test meal intake patterns among girls with LOC-eating (ps = 0.01).

Discussion

These findings suggest that girls with overweight or obesity may fail to adaptively engage neural regions implicated in higher-order executive processes. This difficulty may relate to disinhibited eating patterns that could lead to excess weight gain.
Association and interactions between mixed exposure to trace elements and the prevalence of kidney stones: a study of NHANES 2017–2018
Authors: Wang Xiao , Zhang Jia , Ma Zhibin , Yang Yaya , Dang Ying , Cao Shuting , Shi Xiaoru , Ouyang Changping , Pan Jinhua , Hu Xiaobin
Published: October 2023

Background

The association between exposure to trace elements mixture and the prevalence of kidney stones and the interactions between elements are unclear. The aim of this study was to explore the association between exposure to trace elements mixture and the prevalence of kidney stones and the interactions between the elements.

Methods

A total of 1,244 participants (139 kidney stone formers and 1,105 non-stone former participants) in NHANES 2017–2018 were included. The exposure to trace elements was evaluated by measuring their concentration in urine samples. Three methods, Logistic regression, quantile-based g computation (qgcomp), and Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR), were used for analysis.

Results

According to the results from qgcomp and BKMR, a negative association was found between exposure to the 13 trace elements and the prevalence of kidney stones [OR = 0.50 (0.32, 0.78)]. Subgroup analysis revealed that Co, As, and iodine in the whole population, Co, As, and Ni in males, and Cs, iodine, and Sb in females, were most strongly associated with kidney stones. Kidney stone was found to be positively correlated with Co and negatively correlated with the other elements. Besides, there were significant interactions between Ni and Pb in the whole population, Co and iodine in males, and Pb and iodine in females.

Conclusion

There was a negative association between exposure to the mixture of 13 trace elements and the prevalence of kidney stones.
Automating Stimulation Frequency Selection for SSVEP-Based Brain-Computer Interfaces
Authors: Kozin Alexey , Gerasimov Anton , Bakaev Maxim , Pashkov Anton , Razumnikova Olga
Published: October 2023

Brain–computer interfaces (BCIs) based on steady-state visually evoked potentials (SSVEPs) are inexpensive and do not require user training. However, the highly personalized reaction to visual stimulation is an obstacle to the wider application of this technique, as it can be ineffective, tiring, or even harmful at certain frequencies. In our experimental study, we proposed a new approach to the selection of optimal frequencies of photostimulation. By using a custom photostimulation device, we covered a frequency range from 5 to 25 Hz with 1 Hz increments, recording the subjects’ brainwave activity (EEG) and analyzing the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) changes at the corresponding frequencies. The proposed set of SNR-based coefficients and the discomfort index, determined by the ratio of theta and beta rhythms in the EEG signal, enables the automation of obtaining the recommended stimulation frequencies for use in SSVEP-based BCIs.
Review and Analysis of Platform-Related Performance of Rehabilitation Lower Limb Exoskeletons
Authors: Karami Hossein , Maludrottu Stefano , Vassallo Christian , Laffranchi Matteo , De Michieli Lorenzo
Published: October 2023

Powered Lower Limb Exoskeletons (PLLE) have attracted much interest due to their potential applications. They provide assistance for persons with disabilities to accomplish activities of daily living (ADL), and more importantly, assist them in achieving their rehabilitation goals. However, there is still uncertainty regarding the quality and benefits that PLLEs can offer to patients. This is due to limited usability and performance of current PLLEs, insufficient clinical use of PLLEs for different patients with high diversity in their disability type and impairment, and also the large gap between the technological state of the art and clinical expectations. In this study, we review and analyse various factors that can improve the effectiveness of PLLEs at yielding better assistance and rehabilitation training for patients with motor impairments. First, we define a set of criteria that characterize the majority of expectations for the rehabilitation and assistance domains and we use them for evaluating PLLEs depending on the context. Then, we include the effects of control strategies and combined approaches which include auxiliary devices such as functional electrical stimulation and smart crutches applied to PLLEs with regard to the criteria we defined.
Parameter Optimization of Finger Clip Plate Garlic Seed-Metering Device
Authors: Ding Yuangeng , Li Hua , Gao Jifeng , Yu Haiming , Wang Yongjian , Feng Dinghao
Published: October 2023

In order to improve the success rate of garlic sowing and the qualification rate of garlic seeds, a fingerboard-type garlic seed metering device was designed, and its parameters were optimized. First, the structure and working principles of seed-metering devices were studied. Subsequently, its critical component parameters were determined using theoretical calculations; then, discrete element method multi-body dynamics (DEM-MBD)-coupling simulation software was used to explore the seed-metering device process and analyze the effects of the opening angle of the clamping plate, the diameter of the seed scoop, and rotational speed of the seeding plate on the single-seed rate, missing rate, and reply rate of the device. Finally, a quadratic regression orthogonal rotation simulation experiment was conducted using the splint opening angle, scoop opening diameter, and rotation speed of the seeding plate as experimental factors, with the single-seed filling rate, qualified percentage, and missing rate as evaluation indicators. A three-factor, five-level orthogonal test was conducted to determine the mathematical regression model of experiment factors and evaluation indicators and to realize parameter optimization. A bench validation test was conducted using a 63° splint opening angle, a 24 mm seed-collecting scoop opening diameter, and 34 r/min seed-metering plate rotation speed. The average qualified rate, missing rate, and reply rate of single seeds were 91.86%, 2.71%, and 5.43%, respectively, which was consistent with the regression model results. This indicates that the method proposed in this paper achieved parameter optimization of a fingerboard garlic seed metering device.
Developing a Localized Emergence Model of Echinochloa crus-galli to Predict Early Post-Herbicide Effectiveness in Maize
Authors: Piskáčková Theresa Reinhardt , Jursík Miroslav
Published: October 2023

In order to achieve integrated weed management, precision timing is just as important an aspect to consider as spatial precision: the stage of the plant at the time of action will impact its successful control or survivability and thus the selection pressure for herbicide resistance. Weed emergence models are one aspect of this precision timing, but they are yet underutilized. One critique has been that models based on bare ground emergence are not always validated with emergence in the crop, and yet also residual herbicides and their timing may also affect the model. In this work, we compare emergence of Echinochloa crus-galli on bare ground and in maize and the impact of early post-residual herbicides at several timings. Experiments on bare ground and in maize were set in Prague, Czech Republic, in 2021, 2022, and 2023. Bare-ground quadrats of 0.25 m2 were randomly assigned in a space of 100 m2. Maize plot treatments of four herbicides at each of five timings were assigned in a randomized complete block design (dimethenamid-P at 1008 g ai ha−1, pethoxamid at 1200 g ai ha−1, isoxaflutole at 96 g ai ha−1, and mesotrione at 480 g ai ha−1). Three 0.25 m2 quadrats were enumerated in each plot from first emergence to full canopy closure (May to July). Model fit to emergence from the bare-ground plots using thermal time with a base temperature of 10 °C resulted in an AIC of −494. The bare-ground model was validated with emergence from the nontreated control plots in maize in 2022 and 2023, which accounted for over 85% of the variability in observed emergence. At canopy closure, total emergence since herbicide application was affected by herbicide and application timing. All herbicides at all timings reduced the emergence after application except for mesotrione. When beginning thermal time from the day of application, the emergence pattern after mesotrione application at all timings could be modeled with a single equation. E. crus-galli had a reliable emergence pattern within a local population; the predictive model created using bare-ground plots adequately predicted emergence in maize. This information can be used to time herbicides to coincide with the most effective moment in the flush in areas where E. crus-galli is the driver weed species.
Efficiency of Vinasse Application on Root-Knot Nematodes in Soybean
Authors: Leite Maria Lúcia Tiburtino , Almeida Fernandes Antonio de , Fonseca Wéverson Lima , Oliveira Augusto Matias de , Zuffo Alan Mario , Pereira Francisco Fernandes , Alcântara Neto Francisco de , Barreto Artur Franco , Al-Askar Abdulaziz A. , Carvalho Rezanio Martins , Marey Samy A. , Gondim Ancélio Ricardo de Oliveira , Hashem Amr H. , Leite Marcos Renan Lima , AbdElgawad Hamada
Published: October 2023

Vinasse is not only effectively used in pest control but also creates a conducive environment for the growth of antagonistic microorganisms. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the potential of vinasse applied via soil for the management of root-knot nematodes in soybean culture. The experimental design was entirely random, in a factorial scheme (2 × 6), consisting of two species of nematodes, Meloidogyne incognita and M. javanica, under vinasse application at five concentrations (20, 40, 60, 80, and 100%) and one control (water), with five repetitions. Soybean plants Intacta cv. M-Soy 8644 IPRO were inoculated with 4000 eggs/juveniles of each species separately. At 60 days after the first application of vinasse, evaluations of parasitism and agronomic characteristics in soybean were performed. Stillage resulted in the highest average values for root volume and root fresh mass in plants inoculated with M. incognita, showing respective increases of 24.33% and 14.92% compared to plants inoculated with M. javanica. However, concentrations exceeding 60% had a detrimental effect on all agronomic variables of soybean. For parasitism, an interaction among the factors was observed, with a significant effect (p < 0.01) for most of the evaluated variables, except for the number of eggs in the soil. The concentration equivalent to 60% vinasse promoted a sharp reduction in parasitism for the two nematode species, making reproduction on plant roots unfeasible.
Assessing Eco-Efficiency with Emphasis on Carbon Emissions from Fertilizers and Plastic Film Inputs
Authors: Lu Yixuan , Sun Zhixian , Yao Guanxin , Xu Jing
Published: October 2023

In the context of growing environmental challenges and the push for sustainable agriculture, this study delves into the eco-efficiency of three-season indica rice across 16 key provinces in China from 2004 to 2021. Utilizing the super-efficiency Slacks-Based Measure (SBM) model coupled with the Malmquist index, our approach uniquely incorporates undesirable outputs, focusing on carbon emissions from chemical and plastic inputs. Findings indicate that while the overall efficiency hinged around a modest mean, periods like 2005–2006 and 2017–2018 spotlighted the pivotal role of technological advancements and judicious resource use. The Malmquist Index revealed an intricate interplay between technological change and efficiency, notably when accounting for environmental impact. Diverse provincial efficiencies spotlighted the need for bespoke strategies harmonizing efficiency objectives with ecological sustainability. This study emphasizes the indispensable role of technological innovation in advancing eco-efficiency and fostering sustainable agricultural practices, urging for policy changes that prioritize both technology adoption and ecological awareness.
Overview of Availability, Cost, and Affordability of Antibiotics for Adults in Jordan: An AWaRe Classification Perspective
Authors: Darwish Elhajji Feras , Abuhasheesh Sahar , Al Rusasi Ahmed , Aldeyab Mamoon A.
Published: October 2023

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a global public health threat, with rates directly linked with consumption. The World Health Organization (WHO)’s AWaRe classification aims to guide antibiotic use, and is influenced by drug availability, affordability, and economic policies. In Jordan, a high proportion of consumed antibiotics belong to the ‘Watch’ category. Data from the WHO’s AWaRe classification, the Essential Medicines List, and the Jordan Food and Drug Administration were analyzed. Antibiotics for adults were classified, their costs per defined daily dose (DDD) were determined and their affordability assessed. In 2023, 43 injectable and 43 oral antibiotics for adults were registered in Jordan. ‘Watch’ antibiotics were the most common. ‘Access’ antibiotics had the lowest cost/DDD. ‘Reserve’ antibiotics were the most expensive, with few generics. Injectable antibiotics had a negative correlation between cost and the number of alternatives. Affordability was higher for oral antibiotics compared with injectable ones. ‘Reserve’ antibiotics were generally unaffordable. This study highlights the need to promote ‘Access’ antibiotics over other categories by encouraging the registration of missing ‘Access’ antibiotics and adjusting the prices of ‘Watch’ and ‘Reserve’ antibiotics. Competition among generics can lead to lower prices, increasing affordability and accessibility. We emphasize the importance of the AWaRe classification in guiding antibiotic use in Jordan.
Assessing Clinical Outcomes of Vancomycin Treatment in Adult Patients with Vancomycin-Susceptible Enterococcus faecium Bacteremia
Authors: Sasano Hiroshi , Hanada Kazuhiko
Published: October 2023

Purpose: Enterococcal bacteremia is associated with high mortality and long-term hospitalization. Here, we aimed to investigate the clinical outcomes and evaluate the risk factors for mortality in adult patients treated with vancomycin (VCM) for vancomycin-susceptible Enterococcus faecium (E. faecium) bacteremia. Methods: This is a retrospective, record-based study. The data were collected from inpatients at a single university hospital between January 2009 and December 2020. The area under the curve (AUC) of VCM was calculated using the Bayesian approach. The primary outcome was a 30-day in-hospital mortality. Results: A univariate analysis showed significant differences in the concomitant use of vasopressors, history of the use of no clinically relevant activity antimicrobial agents against E. faecium, VCM plasma trough concentration, and renal dysfunction during VCM administration between the 30-day in-hospital mortality and survival groups. However, the groups’ AUC/minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) were not significantly different. A multivariate analysis suggested that concomitant vasopressors may be an independent risk factor for 30-day in-hospital mortality (odds ratio, 7.81; 95% confidence interval, 1.16–52.9; p = 0.035). The VCM plasma trough concentrations and the AUC/MIC in the mortality group were higher than those in the surviving group. No association between the AUC/MIC and the treatment effect in E. faecium bacteremia was assumed, because the known, target AUC/MIC were sufficiently achieved in the mortality group. Conclusions: There may be no association between the AUC/MIC and the treatment effect in E. faecium bacteremia. When an immunocompromised host develops E. faecium bacteremia with septic shock, especially when a vasopressor is used in a patient with unstable hemodynamics, it may be difficult to treat it, despite efforts to ensure the appropriate AUC/MIC and therapeutic vancomycin concentration levels.
Sirtuin1 Mediates the Protective Effects of Echinacoside against Sepsis-Induced Acute Lung Injury via Regulating the NOX4-Nrf2 Axis
Authors: Xie Weixi , Deng Lang , Lin Miao , Huang Xiaoting , Qian Rui , Xiong Dayan , Liu Wei , Tang Siyuan
Published: October 2023

Currently, the treatment for sepsis-induced acute lung injury mainly involves mechanical ventilation with limited use of drugs, highlighting the urgent need for new therapeutic options. As a pivotal aspect of acute lung injury, the pathologic activation and apoptosis of endothelial cells related to oxidative stress play a crucial role in disease progression, with NOX4 and Nrf2 being important targets in regulating ROS production and clearance. Echinacoside, extracted from the traditional Chinese herbal plant Cistanche deserticola, possesses diverse biological activities. However, its role in sepsis-induced acute lung injury remains unexplored. Moreover, although some studies have demonstrated the regulation of NOX4 expression by SIRT1, the specific mechanisms are yet to be elucidated. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effects of echinacoside on sepsis-induced acute lung injury and oxidative stress in mice and to explore the intricate regulatory mechanism of SIRT1 on NOX4. We found that echinacoside inhibited sepsis-induced acute lung injury and oxidative stress while preserving endothelial function. In vitro experiments demonstrated that echinacoside activated SIRT1 and promoted its expression. The activated SIRT1 was competitively bound to p22 phox, inhibiting the activation of NOX4 and facilitating the ubiquitination and degradation of NOX4. Additionally, SIRT1 deacetylated Nrf2, promoting the downstream expression of antioxidant enzymes, thus enhancing the NOX4-Nrf2 axis and mitigating oxidative stress-induced endothelial cell pathologic activation and mitochondrial pathway apoptosis. The SIRT1-mediated anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of echinacoside were validated in vivo. Consequently, the SIRT1-regulated NOX4-Nrf2 axis may represent a crucial target for echinacoside in the treatment of sepsis-induced acute lung injury.
A Novel Method for the Analysis and Optimization of End Face Stress in Cycloidal Gears Based on Conformal Mapping
Authors: Jiang Ning , Jiang Liquan , Zhang Jie , Wang Shuting
Published: October 2023

In the realm of precision engineering, the evaluation of stress distributions in complex geometries, such as the end face of gears, is paramount for determining performance characteristics, including the fatigue life of transmission devices. This research introduces a methodology that combines the method of conformal mapping for multiply connected regions with a proposed global scaling factor. This combination facilitates the transformation of stress computations from intricate geometries to a unit circle. By employing this method as a foundation for surrogate models, and by incorporating the Bayesian-enhanced least squares genetic algorithm optimization technique, this study refines the end face stress distribution, particularly considering variations induced by tooth profile modification errors. The results delineate a design parameter domain that is conducive to achieving uniform stress distribution, offering a refined perspective and methodology for the design of cycloidal wheels.
Application of Compound Terrain Factor LSW in Vegetation Cover Evaluation
Authors: Zhou Fangbin , Ma Guowei , Xie Caichang , Zhang Yunfei , Xiao Zhiwen
Published: October 2023

Aiming at the limited degree of revealing vegetation growth pattern by simple topographic factors, it is essential to find an index that can explain the vegetation cover mechanism to a greater extent. By introducing a certainty factor into vegetation cover evaluation, LSW, LS, topographic wetness index, and aspect were also chosen to carry out control group experiments. The grid digital elevation model of 10 disaster-stricken counties (cities) in Sichuan Province was used as the basis to obtain LSW, while vegetation susceptibility levels were categorized using the natural breaks classification. The results of the multi-factor analysis demonstrated that the certainty factor corresponding to LSW climbed linearly from negative to positive values as the susceptibility level rose, indicating that it was highly correlated with vegetation cover and had an obvious advantage in revealing the vegetation growth potential. Statistically, the vegetation occurrence rate increased regularly with the improvement of the susceptibility level, in which the high and very high susceptibility zones corresponded to 83.66% and 89.95% of vegetation coverage respectively, suggesting a good consistency between the delineated high susceptibility areas and the actual vegetation cover. The findings proved that LSW has a substantial advantage in evaluating vegetation cover, with an evaluation model accuracy of 72.9%. It has been established that LSW will serve as a promising new model for assessing vegetation restoration and planning.
Physical Modeling of the Process of Centrifugation of Crushed Bovine Bones to Separate Animal Fat and Meat–Bone Slurry
Authors: Shayakhmetova Madina , Kassenov Amirzhan , Zhumadilova Gulmira , Shayakhmetova Aigerim , Rebezov Maksim , Bakiyeva Anara , Baikadamova Assemgul , Jumazhanova Madina , Mukhametov Yeldos , Khayrullin Mars , Ibragimov Nadir
Published: October 2023

This article describes the design of a centrifuge for the separation of fat from meat–bone slurry to produce fat-extracted animal feed. The characteristics of the main components of the equipment and the principle of its operation were presented. The productivity of the centrifuge depending on duration and speed of rotation was determined. Data were provided for different drum speeds (1000, 1500, 2000, 2500 rpm) and centrifugation durations (5, 7, 10 and 15 min), with the yield (output) of defatted slurry measured as a percentage. Among the various conditions tested, the maximum yield of slurry was observed when the drum was rotated at 2000 rpm for 5 min, with a yield of 68.97%, while the lowest yield was observed when the drum was rotated at 1000 rpm for 15 min, with a yield of 55%. On the basis of modeling, a physical model including centrifugal separation with simultaneous centrifugal filtration was presented in the form of a system of differential, algebraic, and criterion equations.
Upmix B-Format Ambisonic Room Impulse Responses Using a Generative Model
Authors: Xia Jiawei , Zhang Wen
Published: October 2023

Ambisonic room impulse responses (ARIRs) are recorded to capture the spatial acoustic characteristics of specific rooms, with widespread applications in virtual and augmented reality. While the first-order Ambisonics (FOA) microphone array is commonly employed for three-dimensional (3D) room acoustics recording due to its easy accessibility, higher spatial resolution necessitates using higher-order Ambisonics (HOA) in applications such as binaural rendering and sound field reconstruction. This paper introduces a novel approach, leveraging generative models to upmix ARIRs. The evaluation results validate the model’s effectiveness at upmixing first-order ARIRs to higher-order representations, surpassing the aliasing frequency limitations. Furthermore, the spectral errors observed in the Binaural Room Transfer Functions (BRTFs) indicate the potential benefits of using upmixed ARIRs for binaural rendering, significantly improving rendering accuracy.
Support Optimization of Open TBM Tunneling in Luohe Formation Sandstone by CT Test and Numerical Simulation
Authors: Kang Xin , Li Anyun , Xie Xiongyao , Zhang Kai , Zhou Biao , Kang Yuanfeng
Published: October 2023

As underground engineering extends into the western and deeper regions of China, more and more Luohe Formation sandstone layers will be encountered, which have weak cementation and high water content. It is a significant challenge to apply the open TBM, and the support system is crucial in determining whether TBM can excavate quickly and safely. Therefore, in order to optimize the support scheme, this paper analyzes the pore structure and porosity through CT scanning, the results indicate that the volume percentage of pores ≥34 μm is 2.3% and 1.5%, respectively, the large pore apertures are predominant, the surrounding rock has strong permeability, and there is a high risk of rock burst and roof collapse accidents, hence requiring reinforced support measures. On this basis, numerical simulations were conducted to evaluate the support effectiveness. The results show that replacing the “bolt + mesh” with a “bolt + cable + mesh + steel belt”, and replacing the top three bolts with 7.3 m anchor cables, can better control the deformation and provide sufficient thrust force for the TBM, ensuring excavation speed. After the implementation of this scheme at the Kekegai coal mine in Shaanxi, China, the TBM excavation speed increased by 70%, from the previous 10 m/day to 17 m/d, significantly reducing the project duration and construction costs.
3D-Printed Bio-Inspired Mechanisms for Bird-like Morphing Drones
Authors: Bishay Peter L. , Brody Matthew , Podell David , Corte Garcia Francisco , Munoz Erik , Minassian Evette , Bradley Kevin
Published: October 2023

Birds have unique flight characteristics unrivaled by even the most advanced drones due in part to their lightweight morphable wings and tail. Advancements in 3D-printing, servomotors, and composite materials are enabling more innovative airplane designs inspired by avian flight that could lead to optimized flight characteristics compared to traditional designs. Morphing technology aims to improve the aerodynamic and power efficiencies of aircraft by eliminating traditional control surfaces and implementing wings with significant shape-changing ability. This work proposes designs of 3D-printed, bio-inspired, non-flapping, morphing wing and tail mechanisms for unmanned aerial vehicles. The proposed wing design features a corrugated flexible 3D-printed structure to facilitate sweep morphing with expansion and contraction of the attached artificial feathers. The proposed tail feather expansion mechanism features a 3D-printed flexible structure with circumferential corrugation. The various available 3D-printing materials and the capability to print geometrically complex components have enabled the realization of the proposed morphing deformations without demanding relatively large actuation forces. Proof-of-concept models were manufactured and tested to demonstrate the effectiveness of the selected materials and actuators in achieving the desired morphing deformations that resemble those of seagulls.
Speed Reduction Capabilities of Two-Geometry Roundabouts
Authors: Ahac Saša , Ahac Maja , Majstorović Igor , Bašić Silvio
Published: October 2023

Several types of modern roundabouts are alternatives to standard ones. They are either in use or at the development stage today. One such intersection is the two-geometry roundabout. Its circulatory roadway has an elliptical outer edge and a circular inner edge that is defined by a circular central island resulting in variable circulatory roadway width. The investigation presented in this paper aims to determine the influence of this variable width on the design of other geometric elements and its impact on roundabouts’ speed reduction capabilities. There is not enough experimental data collected to make a comparison to other roundabout types, so this investigation is based on computer simulations and speed estimations. The investigation is conducted on 40 four-legged single-lane roundabout schemes. These were designed in the Autodesk AutoCAD 2021 software through computer simulations of vehicle movement and the resulting swept paths of a tractor with a semi-trailer generated by the Autodesk Vehicle Tracking 2020 software. The results show that truck aprons must be included in the design of two-geometry roundabouts with a major axis between 18 and 25 m to achieve appropriate circulatory roadway widths, personal car path deflection, and the resulting relative speed and speed consistency.