bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of a Simulated Coal Mine Environment on Polyurethane Grouting Material and a Proposed Polyurethane Strengthening Method
Authors: Hou Kai , Wang Shuai , Yao Xin , Yao Shun , Zhou Xinxing , Ma Jianchao , Wang Pengfei , Feng Guorui
Published: November 2023

When it comes to grouting in coal mines, polyurethane (PU) is often utilized. However, it is of vital importance to consistently improve the mineral PU, considering the significant amount of environmental deterioration to which it is prone. Laboratory experiments were used to model various coal mine conditions. Additionally, a workable technique for PU strengthening using ultrasonic waves was proposed. Compression tests and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used to describe the PU–gangue material’s induration characteristics. The results showed that ultrasound has a positive impact on PU’s mechanical strength. The final strength of the PU was significantly impacted by the size of the coal gangue particles, the amount of dust, and the amount of water. The induration made of gangue and PU with the same mass but differing particle sizes was noticeably different in its compressive strength. The strengthening mechanism showed that the average size of the rigid foam after the ultrasound treatment was smaller, and the ‘honeycomb’-structured space in the inner section was more compact, resulting in the rigid PU foam having a higher compressive strength after ultrasound treatment. Furthermore, the dust content and water content of coal mines need to be controlled within a specific range to ensure the effective use of PU grouting materials.
Temperature-Sensitive Aerogel Using Bagasse Carboxylated Cellulose Nanocrystals/N-Isopropyl Acrylamide for Controlled Release of Pesticides
Authors: Dong Ni , Qin Zuzeng , Li Wang , Xiang Nian , Luo Xuan , Ji Hongbing , Wang Zhiwei , Xie Xinling
Published: November 2023

Temperature-sensitive carboxylated cellulose nanocrystals/N-isopropyl acrylamide aerogels (CCNC-NIPAMs) were developed as novel pesticide-controlled release formulas. Ammonium persulfate (APS) one-step oxidation was used to prepare bagasse-based CCNCs, and then the monomer N-isopropyl acrylamide (NIPAM) was successfully introduced and constructed into the temperature-sensitive CCNC-NIPAMs through polymerization. The results of the zeta potential measurement and Fourier infrared transform spectrum (FTIR) show that the average particle size of the CCNCs was 120.9 nm, the average surface potential of the CCNCs was −34.8 mV, and the crystallinity was 62.8%. The primary hydroxyl group on the surface of the CCNCs was replaced by the carboxyl group during oxidation. The morphology and structure of CCNC-NIPAMs were characterized via electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), compression performance, porosity analysis, and thermogravimetric (TG) analysis. The results demonstrate that CCNC-NIPAM has a high porosity and low density, as well as good thermal stability, which is conducive to loading and releasing pesticides. In the swelling, drug loading, and controlled release process, the CCNC-NIPAM exhibited significant temperature sensitivity. Under the same NIPAM reaction amount, the equilibrium swelling rate of the CCNC-NIPAM first increased and then decreased with increasing temperature, and the cumulative drug release ratio of the CCNC-NIPAM at 39 °C was significantly higher than that at 25 °C. The loading efficiency of the CCNC-NIPAM on the model drug thiamethoxam (TXM) was up to 23 wt%, and the first-order model and Korsmyer–Peppas model could be well-fitted in the drug release curves. The study provides a new method for the effective utilization of biomass and pesticides.
Influence of Process Parameters in Material Extrusion on Product Properties Using the Example of the Electrical Resistivity of Conductive Polymer Composites
Authors: Nowka Maximilian , Hilbig Karl , Schulze Lukas , Jung Eggert , Vietor Thomas
Published: November 2023

Additive manufacturing of components using the material extrusion (MEX) of thermoplastics enables the integration of multiple materials into a single part. This can include functional structures, such as electrically conductive ones. The resulting functional structure properties depend on the process parameters along the entire manufacturing chain. The aim of this investigation is to determine the influence of process parameters in filament production and additive manufacturing on resistivity. Filament is produced from a commercially available composite of polylactide (PLA) with carbon nanotubes (CNT) and carbon black (CB), while the temperature profile and screw speed were varied. MEX specimens were produced using a full-factorial variation in extrusion temperature, layer height and deposition speed from the most and least conductive in-house-produced filament and the commercially available filament from the same composite. The results show that the temperature profile during filament production influences the resistivity. The commercially available filament has a lower conductivity than the in-house-produced filament, even though the starting feedstock is the same. The process parameters during filament production are the main factors influencing the resistivity of an additively manufactured structure. The MEX process parameters have a minimal influence on the resistivity of the used PLA/CNT/CB composite.
Physical and Numerical Simulation Study on Structure Optimization of the Inner Wall of Submerged Entry Nozzle for Continuous Casting of Molten Steel
Authors: Cai Changyou , Zhao Ming , Shen Minggang , Pan Yuhua , Deng Xin , Shi Chunyang
Published: November 2023

The submerged entry nozzle (SEN) plays an important role in the continuous casting production process. It is a cast refractory pipe fitting installed in the lower part of the tundish and inserted below the molten steel level of the mold. It not only affects the speed of molten steel flow, but is also prone to nodules and affects production. In the present work, the flow behavior of molten steel in a traditional nozzle and that in a new type of nozzle whose inner wall was distributed with arrays of hemispherical crowns were studied by means of both physical simulation (using a water model) and numerical simulation (using ANSYS CFX) based on the prototype of a production continuous casting slab mold. Both experimental and numerical simulation results show that, compared with the traditional nozzle, the impact depth generated by the new-type nozzle in the mold is reduced by 21.06–26.03 cm, the impact angle is reduced by 14–17 degrees, and swirl flow was generated inside the new-type nozzle, which not only improves the flow characteristics inside the submerged entry nozzle and changes the dead zone size in the submerged entry nozzle, but also improves the velocity distribution at the outlet of the nozzle and minimizes the possibility of nodulation. In addition, in contrast to the traditional nozzle that generates flat body-shaped jets of molten steel flow, the new-type nozzle produces baseball glove-shaped jets that penetrate shallower into the molten steel bath in the mold, which significantly reduces the outlet velocity and is conducive to the floating of inclusions.
Preparation of a Novel Copper–Cobalt Composite Catalyst and Study on Performance Degradation of Methyl Orange
Authors: Zhang Bo , Yan Yu , Chen Shanshan , Xu Xiaohong , Wu Chundu
Published: November 2023

A novel Co–Cu composite heterogeneous Fenton-like catalyst was prepared by using a modified hydrothermal method for the degradation of methyl orange solution. The catalyst was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) and a Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FT-IR), which confirmed that the catalyst contained Co(OH)2, Cu2O, and an exhibition of a hexagonal crystalline structure with sizes within the range of 0.5–5 μm. The influential factors were researched with the use of univariate analysis and the results showed that: the catalyst has better catalytic properties in the pH range of 2–10 and there was an optimum value of the dosage of the catalyst; the greater the dosage of the catalyst, the faster the COD degradation rate achieves its maximum value; the COD degradation rate increases with a higher reaction temperature. When the pH is 7, the dosage of the catalyst is 0.3 g/L, the dosage of hydrogen peroxide is 50 mL/L, and the reaction temperature is 313 K. The COD degradation rate reached 94% after 50 min of treatment, which proved that the catalyst exhibited high catalysis in a Fenton-like process. Furthermore, reuse of the catalyst and the degradation mechanism of methyl orange were also researched.
Wear Detection of Extruder Elements Based on Current Signature by Means of a Continuous Wavelet Transform
Authors: Danielak Marek , Witaszek Kamil , Ekielski Adam , Żelaziński Tomasz , Dudnyk Alla , Durczak Karol
Published: November 2023

Assessing the wear of components in a single-screw extruder and its condition during the process is difficult. In this context, wavelet analysis was used to investigate the wear condition of extruder elements, which yielded data on current waveforms obtained from 1 kHz frequency converters. To date, no tests of this type have been conducted on single-screw food extruders, which further emphasizes the relevance of the research undertaken by the authors. Experimental tests have been conducted to verify the hypothesis that it is possible to assess the level of wear of the working elements of an extruder by monitoring the variations in the frequencies on the current spectrum using wavelet analysis tools. The root mean square (RMS) values of the current were compared for two configurations of the working elements of the device, i.e., new and used. Observation of the frequency variations of the current spectrum values using wavelet analysis tools can provide valuable information on the technical condition of the working elements of an industrial extruder. Therefore, they can indicate the need for prompt replacement of friction elements in order to improve the efficiency and performance of the machine.
Impact of Alloy Elements on the Adsorption and Dissociation of Gaseous Hydrogen on Surfaces of Ni–Cr–Mo Steel
Authors: Mi Zhishan , Fan Xiuru , Li Tong , Yang Li , Su Hang , Cai Weidong , Li Shuangquan , Zhang Guoxin
Published: November 2023

In this study, the effect of alloying elements on the adsorption and dissociation behaviors of hydrogen molecules on the bcc-Fe (001) surface has been investigated using first-principles calculations. H2 molecules can easily dissociate on the hollow site, and the dissociated hydrogen atoms bond with the surrounding metal atoms. Doping Cr and Mo atoms on the surface would reduce the H2 molecule adsorption energy, which promotes the H2 molecule adsorption and dissociation. When only one or two Ni atoms doping on the surface, it improves the adsorption energies, which in turn can hinder the H2 molecule adsorption and dissociation. However, three or four Ni atoms doping on the surface is beneficial to the H2 molecule adsorption and dissociation. Thus, the nickel content in Ni–Cr–Mo steel should be reasonably controlled to improve the hydrogen embrittlement resistance of the steel.
Investigation of a Jet-Based Direct Mixing Process for Improved Structuring of Conductive Battery Hetero-Agglomerates
Authors: Witte Joscha , Hua Zhi Cheng , Kolck Victor , Kruggel-Emden Harald , Heinrich Stefan , Schmidt Eberhard
Published: November 2023

A jet-based direct mixing process is used to effectively mix heterogeneous materials. In this work, its application in the structuring, coating and agglomeration of cathode materials for all-solid-state battery (ASSB) production is investigated, with the aim of increasing the homogeneity and conductivity of the composites and ultimately improving battery performance. In this process, different particle systems consisting of lithium iron phosphate (LFP), carbon black (CB) and sodium chloride (NaCl) are dispersed in the gas phase and brought together in a mixing zone as particle-laden aerosol jets. The cathode material’s structure is studied through scanning electron microscopy combined with a focussed ion beam (SEM–FIB). Electrical conductivity measurements of the resulting composites assess the degree of mixing and the changes in tortuosity, while a laser light diffractor and a cascade impactor analyse the particle size distribution (PSD). The jet-based process effectively produces hetero-agglomerates with the possibility of creating different composite structures by adjusting the process parameters. The mass concentration influences not only the structure, but also the PSD in the flow and the electrical conductivity of the composite. The results serve as a basis for future experiments with solid electrolytes to comprehensively evaluate the process and the resulting battery materials.
A Perspective on Prosthetic Hands Control: From the Brain to the Hand
Authors: Gentile Cosimo , Gruppioni Emanuele
Published: November 2023

The human hand is a complex and versatile organ that enables humans to interact with the environment, communicate, create, and use tools. The control of the hand by the brain is a crucial aspect of human cognition and behaviour, but also a challenging problem for both neuroscience and engineering. The aim of this study is to review the current state of the art in hand and grasp control from a neuroscientific perspective, focusing on the brain mechanisms that underlie sensory integration for hand control and the engineering implications for developing artificial hands that can mimic and interface with the human brain. The brain controls the hand by processing and integrating sensory information from vision, proprioception, and touch, using different neural pathways. The user’s intention can be obtained to control the artificial hand by using different interfaces, such as electromyography, electroneurography, and electroencephalography. This and other sensory information can be exploited by different learning mechanisms that can help the user adapt to changes in sensory inputs or outputs, such as reinforcement learning, motor adaptation, and internal models. This work summarizes the main findings and challenges of each aspect of hand and grasp control research and highlights the gaps and limitations of the current approaches. In the last part, some open questions and future directions for hand and grasp control research are suggested by emphasizing the need for a neuroscientific approach that can bridge the gap between the brain and the hand.
A New Pd-Based Catalytic System for the Reductive Carbonylation of Nitrobenzene to Form N-(4-hydroxyphenyl)acetamide Selectively in One Pot
Authors: Vavasori Andrea , Capponi Marco , Ronchin Lucio
Published: November 2023

N-(4-hydroxyphenyl)acetamide (commonly named paracetamol or acetaminophen) is a target molecules for many industries that produce chemicals for pharmaceutical applications. The industrial processes, however, use multistep procedures with low overall yield and/or severe drawbacks and problems in terms of sustainability. In the present paper, a one-pot synthesis is proposed based on the reductive carbonylation of nitrobenzene catalyzed by Pd(II)-complexes. Usually, such a reaction leads to a mixture of different products, including aniline, 4-aminophenol and 1,3-diphenylurea. However, the selectivity towards the possible products strongly depends by the ligands on the Pd(II)-catalyst, but also by the nature of the solvent. According to this, we have found that when the reaction was carried out in dilute acetic acid as a solvent, the [PdCl2(dppb)] catalyst precursor leads in one pot to N-(4-hydroxyphenyl)acetamide. Under optimized reaction conditions, it was possible to produce N-(4-hydroxyphenyl)acetamide with a 85 mol % of selectivity in ca. 5 h.
Coupled Price–Volume Equity Models with Auto-Induced Regime Switching
Authors: Esquível Manuel L. , Krasii Nadezhda P. , Mota Pedro P. , Shamraeva Victoria V.
Published: November 2023

In this work, we present a rigorous development of a model for the Price–Volume relationship of transactions introduced in 2009. For this development, we rely on the precise formulation of diffusion auto-induced regime-switching models presented in our previous work of 2020. The auto-induced regime-switching models referred to may be based on a finite set of stochastic differential equations (SDE)—all defined on the same bounded time interval—and a sequence of interlacing stopping times defined by the hitting threshold times of the trajectories of the solutions of the SDE. The coupling between price and volume—which we take as a proxy of liquidity—is assumed to be the following: the regime switching in the price variable occurs at the stopping times for which there is a change of region—in the product state space of price and liquidity—for the liquidity variable (and vice versa). The regimes may be defined parametrically—that is, the SDE coefficients keep the same functional form but with varying parameters—or the functional form of the SDE coefficients may change with each regime. By using the same noise source for both the price and the liquidity regime-switching models—volume (liquidity), which, in general, is not a tradable asset—we ensure that despite incorporating information on liquidity, the price part of the coupled model can be assumed to be arbitrage free and complete, allowing the pricing and hedging of derivatives in a simple way.
Using Satellite Data to Characterize Land Surface Processes in Morocco
Authors: Thaiki Mohammed , Bounoua Lahouari , Cherkaoui Dekkaki Hinde
Published: November 2023

This study endeavors to produce a comprehensive land cover map for Morocco, addressing the absence of such a detailed map in the country. Our research encompasses ecological and climatic aspects specific to Morocco, while the methods used can be adapted to various regions and countries, considering their unique climatic conditions and land cover types. A combination of MODIS and Landsat datasets was employed to create a 5 km resolution Land Use and Land Cover (LULC) map for the entire nation. The process involved the aggregation and advanced processing of these datasets using surface processes algorithms. The resulting LULC map is the first of its kind for Morocco, shedding light on land cover distribution nationwide. It shows that approximately 13.5% of the country is covered by forests, predominantly in the Atlas and Rif mountains, Rabat–Sale, and the southern regions. Grasslands occupy over 16% of the study area, mainly in the north-east and west. Urban areas, including major cities like Casablanca, Rabat, and Marrakech, span nearly 3400 km². Moreover, large areas of shrublands and bare lands are evident across the country, while agricultural lands account for almost 20% of the national territory, mainly in the interior plains and north-western Atlantic coast. This study forms a crucial basis for ecological and climatic research in Morocco and serves as a valuable reference for various disciplines such as agriculture, natural resource management, and climate modeling. The mapping of biophysical parameters for each land cover class is a key feature of our research, and these parameters will be instrumental in a subsequent study examining the impact of urban development on surface climate in Morocco. Overall, our study underscores the importance of understanding biophysical parameters in addressing environmental and societal challenges.
Binary Neural Networks in FPGAs: Architectures, Tool Flows and Hardware Comparisons
Authors: Su Yuanxin , Seng Kah Phooi , Ang Li Minn , Smith Jeremy
Published: November 2023

Binary neural networks (BNNs) are variations of artificial/deep neural network (ANN/DNN) architectures that constrain the real values of weights to the binary set of numbers {−1,1}. By using binary values, BNNs can convert matrix multiplications into bitwise operations, which accelerates both training and inference and reduces hardware complexity and model sizes for implementation. Compared to traditional deep learning architectures, BNNs are a good choice for implementation in resource-constrained devices like FPGAs and ASICs. However, BNNs have the disadvantage of reduced performance and accuracy because of the tradeoff due to binarization. Over the years, this has attracted the attention of the research community to overcome the performance gap of BNNs, and several architectures have been proposed. In this paper, we provide a comprehensive review of BNNs for implementation in FPGA hardware. The survey covers different aspects, such as BNN architectures and variants, design and tool flows for FPGAs, and various applications for BNNs. The final part of the paper gives some benchmark works and design tools for implementing BNNs in FPGAs based on established datasets used by the research community.
Liquid Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) Spectroscopy in Transition—From Structure Elucidation to Multi-Analysis Method
Authors: Kuballa Thomas , Kaltenbach Katja H. , Teipel Jan , Lachenmeier Dirk W.
Published: November 2023

As early as 1946, Felix Bloch and Edward Mills Purcell detected nuclear magnetic resonance signals, earning themselves the Nobel Prize in 1952. The same year saw the launch of the first commercial nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectrometer. Since then, NMR has experienced significant progress in various fields of application. While in the 1970s NMR spectroscopy was solely employed for determining the structure and purity of synthesis products in the chemical field, it gradually gained popularity in the medical field for the investigation and rendering of images of human organs. Since then, the technique has developed significantly in terms of stability, reproducibility, and sensitivity, thereby forming the foundation for high-resolution imaging, the automation or standardization of analytical procedures, and the application of chemometric methods, particularly in relation to identifying food adulteration. This review objectively assesses the current state of implementing liquid NMR in the food, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical industries. Liquid NMR has transitioned from a structural elucidation tool to a widely recognized, multi-analytical method that incorporates multivariate techniques. The illustrations and sources provided aim to enhance novice readers’ understanding of this topic.
How Do Individualism and Collectivism Influence Pro-Environmental Purchasing Behavior Based on Environmental Self-Identity?
Authors: Jung Joowon , Cho So Yeon
Published: November 2023

Consumer behavior contributes to the environmental crisis worldwide. This study examines the influence of horizontal and vertical individualism and collectivism (HVIC) on pro-environmental purchasing behavior based on environmental self-identity. We surveyed 542 Korean adults aged 20–69 online. We analyzed the data using correlation, paired t-tests, and multiple regression analyses. First, we found that the group with high-level environmental self-identity showed significantly higher levels of pro-environmental purchasing behavior, horizontal individualism (HI), horizontal collectivism (HC), and vertical collectivism (VC). No significant difference was observed in vertical individualism (VI). Second, in the low-level group, the influencing factors were gender (ref. female), age, VI, and VC. Third, in the high-level group, the influencing factors were HC, HI, and VC. Cultural values are an important aspect of pro-environmental purchasing behavior based on environmental self-identity.
A Survey of the Diagnosis of Peripheral Neuropathy Using Intelligent and Wearable Systems
Authors: Talha Muhammad , Kyrarini Maria , Buriro Ehsan Ali
Published: November 2023

In recent years, the usage of wearable systems in healthcare has gained much attention, as they can be easily worn by the subject and provide a continuous source of data required for the tracking and diagnosis of multiple kinds of abnormalities or diseases in the human body. Wearable systems can be made useful in improving a patient’s quality of life and at the same time reducing the overall cost of caring for individuals including the elderly. In this survey paper, the recent research in the development of intelligent wearable systems for the diagnosis of peripheral neuropathy is discussed. The paper provides detailed information about recent techniques based on different wearable sensors for the diagnosis of peripheral neuropathy including experimental protocols, biomarkers, and other specifications and parameters such as the type of signals and data processing methods, locations of sensors, the scales and tests used in the study, and the scope of the study. It also highlights challenges that are still present in order to make wearable devices more effective in the diagnosis of peripheral neuropathy in clinical settings.
Expression Profiling of Adipogenic and Anti-Adipogenic MicroRNA Sequences following Methylmercury Exposure in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Garofalo Giancarlo , Nielsen Tyson , Caito Samuel
Published: November 2023

MicroRNA (miRNA) are important regulators of gene expression that respond not only to developmental and pathological cues, but also to environmental stimuli. Dyslipidemia is a hallmark of metabolic conditions and has been shown to significantly affect the expression of circulating miRNA sequences. Recently, our lab has shown that the environmental toxicant methylmercury (MeHg) causes dyslipidemia in the Caenorhabditis elegans model organism. While 10 and 20 μM MeHg increases the expression of adipogenic transcription factors and lipid-binding proteins in worms, there is limited information on how the toxicant affects the miRNA regulators of these genes. We hypothesized that MeHg would increase the expression of adipogenic miRNA sequences and/or decrease the expression of anti-adipogenic miRNA sequences. We further hypothesized that the target mRNA sequences for the miRNAs affected by MeHg would be consequently altered. We selected three potentially adipogenic (mir-34, mir-124, and mir-355) and three potentially anti-adipogenic (mir-240, mir-786, and let-7) miRNA sequences homologous to known human miRNA sequences altered in obesity, and quantified their levels 24 h and 48 h post MeHg treatment. At 24 h post exposure, MeHg significantly increased expression of both the adipogenic and anti-adipogenic miRNA sequences 1.5–3x above untreated control. By 48 h post exposure, only the adipogenic miRNA sequences were elevated, while the anti-adipogenic miRNA sequences were decreased by 50% compared to untreated control. These data suggest that there are developmental changes in miRNA expression over time following MeHg exposure. We next selected one target mRNA sequence for each miRNA sequence based on miRNA–mRNA relationships observed in humans. MeHg altered the gene expression of all the target genes assayed. Except for mir-34, all the tested miRNA–mRNA sequences showed a conserved relationship between nematode and humans. To determine whether the selected miRNA sequences were involved in lipid accumulation in response to MeHg, lipid storage was investigated in transgenic worm strains that lacked the specific miRNA strains. Of the six strains investigated, only the mir-124 and let-7 mutant worms had lipid storage levels that were statistically different from wild type, suggesting that these two sequences can be potential mediators of MeHg-induced lipid dysregulation.
Quantification and Chemical Characterization of Plastic Additives and Small Microplastics (<100 μm) in Highway Road Dust
Authors: Rosso Beatrice , Bravo Barbara , Gregoris Elena , Barbante Carlo , Gambaro Andrea , Corami Fabiana
Published: November 2023

Road dust is one of the environment’s most important microplastic and plastic additive sources. Traffic vehicles and the wear of tires can release these emerging contaminants, which can be resuspended in the air and washed off by stormwater runoff. In this study, a concurrent quantification and chemical characterization of additives, plasticizers, natural and non-plastic synthetic fibers (APFs), and small microplastics (SMPs, <100 µm) in samples of highway road dust (HWRD) was performed. The sampling procedure was optimized, as well as pretreatment (extraction, purification, and filtration) and analysis via micro-FTIR. The average length of the SMPs was 88 µm, while the average width was 50 µm. The highest abundance of SMPs was detected in HWRD 7 (802 ± 39 SMPs/g). Among the polymers characterized and quantified, vinyl ester and polytetrafluoroethylene were predominant. APFs’ average particle length was 80 µm and their width was 45 µm, confirming that both of these emerging pollutants are less than 100 µm in size. Their maximum concentration was in RD7, with 1044 ± 45 APFs/g. Lubricants and plasticizers are the two most abundant categories, followed by vulcanizing agents, accelerators, and pre-vulcanizing retarders derived mainly from tires. A potential relationship between APFs and SMPs in the different seasons was observed, as their concentration was lower in summer for both and higher in winter 2022. These results will be significant in investigating the load of these pollutants from highways, which is urgently necessary for more accurate inclusion in emission inventories, receptor modeling, and health protection programs by policymakers, especially in air and water pollution policies, to prevent risks to human health.
Toxic Relationships: Prediction of TBT’s Affinity to the Ecdysteroid Receptor of Triops longicaudatus
Authors: Ferreira Nuno Gonçalo de Carvalho , Chessa Adriano , Abreu Isabel Oliveira , Teles Luís Oliva , Kille Peter , Carvalho António Paulo , Guimarães Laura
Published: November 2023

Tributyltin (TBT) is a biocide introduced in the 1960s in antifouling paints. Despite legislation banning its use, its persistence in the environment still causes significant harm to organisms. Tributyltin is a ligand of retinoid X receptors (RXR) and ecdysteroid receptors (EcRs), which in arthropods act as homologs of RXR. Focusing on Metazoan species, this study used genomic and proteomic information from different sources to compare their three-dimensional structure, phylogenetic distribution, and amino acid sequence alterations. The objective was to identify possible patterns that relate organisms’ sensitivity to TBT using the species Triops longicaudatus as the basis for the comparisons. The results showed great conservation of this protein across several species when comparing the interaction amino acids described to RXR (an EcR analog) in Homo sapiens. The three-dimensional comparison of RXR showed little conformational variation between different sequences by maintaining the interaction pocket. As for the Species Sensitivity Distribution (SSD) curve, an HC05 = 0.2649 [0.0789–0.7082] µg/L was obtained with no specific distribution between the different taxa. Protein-ligand docking analysis was then used to confirm the SSD curve ranking of species. Still, the results showed an opposite trend that may be related, for example, to differences in the LC50 values used in the calculations. This study serves as the first step for applying bioinformatics techniques to produce information that can be used as an alternative to animal or cellular experimentation. These techniques could be adapted to various chemicals and proteins, allowing for observations in a shorter timeframe and providing information on a broader spectrum.
How Does Agricultural Water Resources Management Adapt to Climate Change? A Summary Approach
Authors: Kourgialas Nektarios N.
Published: November 2023

This editorial paper takes the form of a concise report and delves into a critical and intricate issue essential for the sustainability of agriculture. It centers on the intricate relationship between agri-cultural water resource management and agronomical practices, as well as their ability to adapt to the impacts of climate change while ensuring both the quantity and quality of crop yields. Specifically, this paper serves as a synopsis of how the far-reaching consequences of climate change for water resources impact agricultural production. It also highlights primary adaptation strategies for managing agricultural water resources, as drawn from the existing literature. Such strategies are designed to counteract the potentially adverse impacts of climate change on the rural sector. Fur-thermore, this brief report offers a valuable overview of the 17 selected papers featured in this Special Issue (SI) on Water, published by MDPI. These papers serve as exemplars of cutting-edge approaches to adaptability in water resource management and resilient crop production systems, as these fields attempt to thrive in an ever-changing environmental landscape.
New Advances in Water Hammer Problems
Authors: Urbanowicz Kamil , Ramos Helena Margarida
Published: November 2023

When the flow within pressurized pipes experiences abrupt stoppages, initiation, or directional alteration, it gives rise to the phenomenon of water hammer, characterized by the propagation of waves [...]
Watershed Development and Eutrophying Potable Source-Water Reservoirs in a Warming Temperate/Subtropical Region
Authors: Burkholder JoAnn M. , Kinder Carol A. , Allen Elle H.
Published: November 2023

Reservoirs are increasingly valuable worldwide as potable source waters, yet in many geographic regions, their limnology and trophic status are poorly known. We characterized 14 drinking water reservoirs and their watersheds across the warming temperate/subtropical southeastern USA. Selected reservoirs had at least three years of accessible summer water quality data during 2010–2020, including Secchi depth, nutrients, and algal biomass as chlorophyll a, and depth profiles for temperature and dissolved oxygen. Most watersheds, including lands within a 10-km radius of the reservoirs, had sustained substantial urbanization and/or intensive industrialized animal production, in some cases including the discharge of partially treated human sewage or livestock slaughterhouse wastes near or into the reservoirs. Five reservoirs were assessed as mesotrophic; the others were eutrophic. Most were stratified, but ephemeral near-surface thermoclines were common, and many were too shallow (median depth 5.0 m) to maintain uniform temperatures in the relatively warm hypolimnia. Bottom-water hypoxia/anoxia occurred throughout the summers but, surprisingly, in 8 of 14 reservoirs hypoxia commonly extended to surface waters. In the Southeast as in many regions, drinking water reservoirs are poorly protected and degrading as livestock production and/or urban development increasingly characterize their watersheds. The eutrophication trajectory of these valuable resources should be used as an indicator of ecosystem health and water quality in developing more protective management and policy actions.
Suplementación con bloques multinutricionales para rumiantes en pastoreo
Authors: Hernández Armando Pacheco , Arellanes Tania Itzel Lozano , Alonzo Alejandro Silva , Silva Magda Vite , Samaniego Miguel Ángel Casanova , Antonio Ana Lilia Hernández
Published: November 2023

Para los sistemas de producción de carne y leche de rumiantes en pastoreo, las empresas ganaderas tienen que mantener un sistema de producción rentable durante todo el año, por lo que se busca suplementar durante las épocas críticas con un suplemento de innovación tecnológica de bajo costo, como es el uso de los bloques multinutricionales. El presente artículo tiene la finalidad de realizar una revisión de literatura y análisis sobre la suplementación con bloques multinutricionales para su uso principalmente en épocas críticas, por lo que se analiza la importancia de los bloques multinutricionales como suplementación para el ganado de pastoreo y sus beneficios nutricionales y de salud para los animales, con la finalidad de mejorar  la productividad de los mismos durante todo el año, por lo que se considera una buena tecnología para usar como un buen manejo de pastizales para los rumiantes principalmente durante la época de estiaje.
Alterações nos teores de componentes do leite relacionado a técnica de coleta em vacas da raça holandês
Authors: Teixeira Ritieli dos Santos , Luz Gabriela Bueno , Carvalho Ivan Ricardo , Maffi Andressa Stein , Brauner Cássio Cassal , Xavier Eduardo Goulart , Corrêa Marcio Nunes , Pino Francisco Augusto Burkert Del
Published: November 2023

O leite é o alimento mais completo existente, entretanto a qualidade desse alimento é dependente de diversos fatores, sendo importante realizar monitorações constantes para a certificação da qualidade. Desta forma, no presente trabalho foram avaliadas as interferências que os métodos de coleta de amostras de leite (manual ou automática) podem causar no resultado laboratorial de composição química do leite em vacas primíparas. Para realização do estudo foram coletadas amostras de leite de 19 animais da raça Holandês, primíparas, a partir de dois métodos de coleta de leite, automático e manual. Em ambas as coletas, as amostras foram refrigeradas e enviadas para análise de Gordura, Proteína, Lactose e Sólidos Totais. Os resultados demonstraram que a coleta manual apresenta redução na concentração de todos os componentes avaliados em comparação com a coleta utilizando copo coletor. Na análise de correlação de Pearson, revelaram-se 45 associações, onde 26 foram significativas. A forma de coleta apresentou fortes associações positivas com gordura (r=0,79), proteína (r=0,64), sólidos totais (r=0,83) e relação proteína: gordura (r=0,79). A forma de coleta interferiu na composição e a coleta realizada com copo coletor mostrou-se mais precisa para mensuração dos componentes do leite.
Análise de mapas sob os aspectos de espaço e território
Authors: Do Nascimento Júnior Acrísio José , Lima João Donizete
Published: November 2023

A análise de mapas pode passar por diferentes aspectos, a depender das informações passadas nestes materiais (que são também um auxílio na questão da transmissão de conhecimento). Também, vale observar que, embora pareçam simples de serem “lidos”, os mapas trazem informações que vão além daquilo que pode estar retratado na legenda e que, muitas das vezes, a escala pode ocultar informações que não são foco do trabalho abordado pelo mapa. Uma análise correta pode significar a descoberta de novas informações ou mesmo a confecção de mapas mais completos.
Evolução temporal do cultivo de Eucalyptus Spp no município de Paragominas – PA
Authors: Pereira Allan Dieggo Rafael , De Queiroz Juciane Mendes , De Aguiar Osmar José Romeiro , Cantanhede Charles da Silva , Da Silva Marília Palheta , De Almeida Eliane Francisca , Pereira Paulo Cezar Gomes
Published: November 2023

Algumas espécies do gênero Eucalyptus, se adaptaram as condições edafoclimáticas brasileiras e vem sendo amplamente cultivadas em várias regiões brasileiras, principalmente pelo seu rápido crescimento e alta produtividade. No leste da Amazônia, especificamente no município de Paragominas – PA, com a instalação de uma planta industrial para a fabricação de painéis de MDF e a implantação de uma fábrica de celulose na cidade de Imperatriz, sul do estado do Maranhão, cresce significativamente a demanda por matéria-prima originária de florestas plantadas com o gênero Eucalyptus na região. Tendo em vista este crescimento e consequente expansão de áreas de plantio, surge também a necessidade de existir um monitoramento contínuo dessas áreas plantadas, visando a geração de informações para subsidiar decisões estratégicas para uma expansão sustentável da cultura. Neste sentido, o objetivo do presente trabalho foi avaliar a dinâmica evolutiva, dos plantios de Eucalyptus spp. no município de Paragominas, no período de 2008 a 2015. A metodologia utilizada consiste no uso da geotecnologia, por meio a análise e interpretação das imagens obtidas através dos sensores TM/Landsat 5, ETM+/Landsat 7 e OLI/Landsat 8, orbita/ponto 222/62 e 223/63, relativas ao período compreendido no estudo. Os resultados obtidos através da análise temporal evidenciaram que houve a expansão das áreas cultivadas com eucalipto, correspondendo a uma taxa de aproximadamente 20,4% de crescimento ao ano, implantados majoritariamente próximos às estradas e rodovias, indicando uma possível estratégia dos produtores para diminuir gastos com transporte, bem como, facilitar o acesso aos plantios desde sua implantação até a colheita. Com o uso das geotecnologias e de dados secundários foi possível analisar a dinâmica dos plantios de eucalipto no município de Paragominas no período de 2008 a 2014, demonstrando que houve a expansão das áreas cultivadas com a espécie no decorrer do tempo, e que os SIG’s são ferramentas de suma importância, pois auxiliam no planejamento das indústrias do setor florestal quando bem empregadas.
Komodifikasi Kasus Korupsi; Framing Media Operasi Penangkapan Wali Kota Bandung oleh Kompas.com dan CNN.Indonesia
Authors: Ulina Malau Ruth Mei , Khairunnisa
Published: November 2023

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis teks berita yang dikonstruksi media massa daring dalam dugaan korupsi yang melibatkan Walikota Bandung Yana Mulyana terkait pengadaan CCTV. Peristiwa korupsi yang terjadi hampir di seluruh wilayah Indonesia menjadi salah satu fenomena yang mendapatkan perhatian masyarakat dan media. Media daring Kompas.com dan CNNIndonesia.com memproduksi teks terkait korupsi dari sudut pandang dan kepentingan masing-masing. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode analisis isi kualitatif dengan model analisis framing Robert Entman yang terdiri dari tiga unsur, yaitu frame building, frame setting, dan media effect. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa media massa daring Kompas.com dan CNNIndonesia.com memproduksi kata dan bahasa untuk membentuk pemahaman masyarakat terhadap kasus tersebut dengan menonjolkan unsur-unsur seperti “Korupsi”, “Pemerintah”, “Teknologi” dan “Keamanan Publik”. Media melakukan proses konstruksi realitas terkait tindak pidana korupsi di Kota Bandung untuk memberikan penyadaran kepada masyarakat tentang bahaya dan akibat korupsi oleh para pejabat. Di sisi lain, media juga menekankan tindak pidana korupsi sebagai permasalahan utama yang layak dijual kepada khalayak dengan proses komodifikasi. Dari produksi bingkai berita yang dilakukan kedua media daring mengarah pada kebijakan pengadaan CCTV di Pemerintah Kota Bandung yang kurang transparan sehingga berujung pada tindakan korupsi. Dari penelitian terkait teks media ini diharapkan masyarakat sebagai konsumen atau pembaca media untuk lebih memahami bagaimana media massa menggunakan teknik framing dalam membentuk opini dan persepsi publik terhadap suatu isu atau peristiwa. Hasil penelitian ini diharapkan dapat menjadi referensi bagi jurnalis, mahasiswa, dan masyarakat untuk lebih kritis dalam membaca dan memahami berita.
ПУБЛІЧНЕ УПРАВЛІННЯ У СФЕРІ МОЛОДІЖНОЇ ПОЛІТИКИ УКРАЇНИ В УМОВАХ ЄВРОІНТЕГРАЦІЇ
Authors: Білас Павло
Published: November 2023

Стаття присвячена теоретичному обґрунтуванню публічного управління молодіжною політикою та розробці практичних рекомендацій із визначення пріоритетних напрямів та шляхів їх вдосконалення в умовах євроінтеграції України.

Розкрито сутність забезпечення діяльності молоді у публічному управлінні. Досліджено європейські стандарти забезпечення участі молоді в публічному управлінні. Охарактеризовано механізми забезпечення і стан діяльності молоді в публічному управлінні країн-членів ЄС та України, здійснено їх порівняльний аналіз. Запропоновано напрями вдосконалення публічного управління молодіжною політикою України в умовах євроінтеграції на найближчі роки, якими мають стати:   забезпечення фінансової підтримки діяльності молоді в публічному управлінні, розвиток молодіжної інфраструктури, запровадження дієвої інформаційної політики, розвиток навичок щодо участі молоді в публічному управлінні.
ОСОБЛИВОСТІ РЕАЛІЗАЦІЇ ДЕРЖАВНОЇ ПОЛІТИКИ В СФЕРІ ОХОРОНИ ЗДОРОВ’Я УКРАЇНИ
Authors: Мануілова Катерина , Мужайло Василь , Вербицька Анастасія
Published: November 2023

Визначені проблеми реалізації державної політики у сфері охорони здоров’я, обґрунтовано шляхи розв'язання цих проблем та встановлені напрямки подальших досліджень. Проаналізовано нормативно-правову базу з охорони здоров’я, досліджено результати Національної політики охорони здоров'я; виявлено сучасні проблеми та перспективи розвитку системи охорони здоров'я. Досліджено особливості оптимізації закладів охорони здоров’я України, що надають невідкладну, первинну, вторинну та третинну (високоспеціалізовану) медичну допомогу. Розглянуто витрати на охорону здоров'я. З’ясовано, як витрати на охорону здоров’я в різних країнах впливають на тривалість життя населення.

Наголошено, що система охорони здоров'я України потребує особливої уваги та державної підтримки у сучасних умовах. Реформи у сфері охорони здоров'я мають бути спрямовані на удосконалення чинної нормативно-правової бази.

Перелік платних послуг (так звані «медичні послуги другорядного значення», «парамедичні послуги») та умови запровадження медичного страхування мають бути встановлені на законодавчому рівні.

Слід розв’язати проблему створення інституту сімейної медицини.

Необхідно розробити й ухвалити довгострокову національну програму реформування системи охорони здоров'я України.

Створити правові, економічні й адміністративні механізми реалізації конституційних прав громадян України на охорону здоров'я, медичну допомогу та медичне страхування.

Забезпечити гарантований рівень безоплатної належної медичної допомоги медичної допомоги в межах, визначених законом; створити контрольований державою ринок платних медичних послуг; на державному рівні створити сприятливі умови для розвитку всіх форм власності вітчизняних закладів охорони здоров'я; створити на державному рівні сприятливі умови для задоволення потреб населення в медичній допомозі; впровадження у державі програм спрямованих на соціально-економічне стимулювання здорового способу життя; а також на правове регулювання питань пов’язаних з обмеженням реклами алкоголю, тютюну та інших шкідливих для здоров'я речовин.

Ухвалення міністерством охорони здоров’я України цих нормативно-правових актів забезпечить системний та узгоджений підхід до охорони здоров'я нашої держави та сприятиме поліпшенню загального стану здоров'я населення.

Місцеві органи влади та органи місцевого самоврядування мають стати ключовою ланкою, які будуть впроваджувати на місцях (регіон, область, громада) з урахуванням місцевих особливостей державну реформу в галузі охорони здоров’я.