bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Carbon footprint in agriculture sector: a literature review
Authors: Miao Zhuang , Zhao Ziheng , Long Tengju , Chen Xiaodong
Published: July 2023

As the climate problem becomes more serious, controlling greenhouse gas emissions has become an overarching issue facing all countries. The agriculture sector is one of the main sources of carbon emissions. The measurement of its carbon footprint not only can quantitatively evaluate agricultural greenhouse gas emissions but also provide technical support for low-carbon agricultural construction. However, most reviews focus on the carbon footprint of manufacturing or international trade. Thus, this study selects the agriculture sector and summarizes the literature associated with the carbon footprint. First, this paper analyzes the different definitions of carbon footprint at macroscopic and microscopic levels. Then, Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) analysis is used to summarize the advantages and disadvantages of two main accounting methods, Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Input-Output Analysis (IOA). Third, the research on carbon footprint in the agricultural sector is concluded and quantified using CiteSpace. Therefore, this paper gives the implications and prospects of carbon footprint in the agriculture sector. It is necessary to further agree on the definition of carbon footprint and consider other pollutants, water, and energy footprints to optimize agricultural management. Additionally, establishing a carbon footprint accounting model in line with local realities will provide scientific support for developing low-carbon agriculture.
Evaluation of Pathogenesis and Immune Response to Coccidi-oides posadasii Infection in U.S. Feral Swine (Sus scrofa)
Authors: Maison Rachel M. , Kessinger Peter , Priore Maggie R. , Han Sushan , Powell Daniel A , Moale Hilary , Brown Vienna R. , Bodenchuk Michael J. , Bowen Richard A. , Bosco-Lauth Angela M.
Published: July 2023

The dimorphic, soil-dwelling fungus Coccidioides is the causative agent of coccidioidomycosis and is a reemerging pathogen of human health concern. Despite increasing incidence and isolations of the organism outside of its theoretical environmental range, much of Coccidioides epidemiology, including complete host range, remains unknown. Feral swine (Sus scrofa) are an invasive species distributed throughout the United States that may play a role in fungal ecology due to their behavioral associations with soil. To address this, we evaluated seven feral swine for susceptibility to Coccidioides. After intranasal inoculation with 106.2 arthroconidia of C. posadasii, no pigs displayed signs of clinical disease, nor did any exhibit antibodies by AGID testing. Histopathologic evaluation did not reveal the presence granulomatous lesions, and fungal spherules or endospores were not observed in any of the tissue sections examined, although individuals had significant comorbidities, most notably Metastrongylus nematodes in the lungs. Despite the absence of lesions and organisms histologically, C. posadasii was isolated by culture from the lung and mediastinal lymph node of two pigs, indicating active infection. These results suggest that feral swine are mildly susceptible to acute Coccidioides infection and may aid in fungal dispersal due to the presence of spherules in tissues post-mortem.
Sericin as Bone Grafts
Authors: Kim Jwa-Young , Kim Seong-Gon , Garagiola Umberto
Published: July 2023

The potential of sericin, a protein derived from silkworms, is explored in bone graft applications. Sericin's biocompatibility, hydrophilic nature, and cost-effectiveness make it a promising candidate for enhancing traditional graft materials. Its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and UV-resistant properties contribute to a healthier bone-healing environment, and its incorporation into 3D-printed grafts could lead to personalized medical solutions. However, despite these promising attributes, there are still gaps in our understanding. The precise mechanism through which sericin influences bone cell growth and healing is not fully understood, and more comprehensive clinical trials are needed to confirm its long-term biocompatibility in humans. Furthermore, the best methods for incorporating sericin into existing graft materials are still under investigation, and potential allergic reactions or immune responses to sericin need further study.
The Role of the Energy Use in Buildings in Front of Climate Change: Reviewing a System’s Challenging Future
Authors: Ekonomou George , Menegaki Angeliki
Published: July 2023

Energy keeps the global economy alive, whereas it is extensively exposed to various climate change impacts. In this context, severe business competition (e.g., the building sector) and the unwise use of natural resources and ecosystem services (e.g., fossil fuel energy sources) seem to sharpen the relevant effects of climate change. Indicatively, contemporary issues at the interface of building energy performance and environmental quality levels include consequences from global warming, increasing releases of carbon dioxide to peak electrical loads, power grid and building planning, and energy demand and supply issues. In light of such concerns, the present review paper attempts to disclose the multifaceted and multidisciplinary character of building energy use at the interface of the economy, the environment, and society against climate change. This review highlights energy efficiency concepts, production, distribution, consumption patterns, and relevant technological improvements. Interestingly, the reviewed contributions in relevant literature reveal the need and necessity to alter the energy mix used and relevant energy use issues. These include developments in climate-proof and effective systems regarding climate change impacts and shocks. Practical implications indicate that the sustainable development goals for clean energy and climate action should be followed if we wish to bring a sustainable future closer and faster to our reality.
Wild Mushrooms: A Hidden Treasure of Novel Bioactive Compounds
Authors: Gebreyohannes Gebreselema , Sbhatu Desta Berhe
Published: July 2023

Mushrooms are unexploited treasures of secondary metabolites. Analysis of the chemical constituents of these mushrooms would be necessary for the assessment of their pharmacological and biological activities. This study aimed at profiling of mycochemical constituents of five wild mushroom extracts thereby understanding their biological and pharmacological properties. Mushrooms were collected from Arabuko-Sokoke and Kakamega National Reserved Forests, Kenya. Specimens were identified by both morphological and molecular methods. Bioactive compounds were extracted using chloroform, 70% ethanol, and hot water solvents. Chloroform, 70% ethanol, and hot water extracts of Auricularia auricula-judae, Microporus xanthopus, Termitomyces umkowaani, Trametes elegans, and Trametes versicolor were determined using gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (GC-MS). From all extracts, a total of fifty-one (51) compounds were identified and grouped into carboxylic acids, esters, phenols, fatty acids, alcohol, epoxides, aldehyde, fatty aldehyde, isoprenoid lipids, and steroid. Of the total compounds, Oleic acid (72.90%) from Trametes elegans was detected abundantly. Most of the compounds obtained from the chloroform extract of Trametes elegans and 70% ethanol extract of T. umkowaani are fatty acids. The identified compounds have revealed many biological and pharmacological activities such as antimicrobial, antioxidant, antimalarial, anti-inflammatory, insecticidal, anti-helminthic, larvicidal, vasodilator, antihypertensive, hepatoprotective, anticancer, antidiabetic, antifertility anti-diuretic, antiasthma, antifouling, anti-dermatophytic, antispasmodic, anti-hypocholesterolemic, nematicide, pesticide, immunostimulant, antiarthritic, and antihistaminic. These fatty acids are particularly playing important roles in the anti-inflammatory, hypocholesterolemic anticancer, and anti-biofilm formation activities. The presence of these bioactive components suggests that the extracts of five wild mushrooms could be good sources of secondary metabolites for drug discovery.
On a Model of Propagation of Two Component Nonlinear OpticalWaves
Authors: Smirnov Aleksandr , Frolov Eugeni
Published: July 2023

Currently, two-component integrable nonlinear equations from the hierarchies of the vector nonlinear Schrodinger equation and the vector derivative nonlinear Schrödinger equation are being actively investigated. Usually, such two-component integrable nonlinear evolutionary equations are considered, the form of which does not depend on the replacement of one component with another. In this paper, we propose for consideration and usage a new hierarchy of two-component integrable nonlinear equations, which have an important difference from the already known equations. Among the hierarchy equations there are analogues of the two-component nonlinear Schrödinger equation (second equation from hierarchy) and the two-component modified Korteweg-de Vries equation (fourth equation from hierarchy). The third equation of the hierarchy is a combination of the nonlinear Schrödinger equation for one component and the modified Korteweg-de Vries equation for the second component. The equations for the individual components are very different from each other, even if they have the same order. Let us note that even hierarchy equations can be reduced to well-known variants of the scalar derivative nonlinear Schrödinger equations, and odd equations can’t be reduced. To construct the hierarchy equations, we use the monodromy matrix method, first proposed by B.A. Dubrovin. Knowledge of the monodromy matrix makes it possible to construct spectral curves of multiphase solutions, as well as to find stationary equations that these solutions satisfy. The last section presents the simplest solutions in the form of solitons and periodic one-phase waves, as well as spectral curves corresponding to these solutions.
TMT-Based Quantitative Proteomics Analysis Reveals Differentially Expressed Proteins between Different Sources of hMSCs
Authors: Naudot Marie , Le Ber Julie , Marcelo Paulo
Published: July 2023

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are an attractive therapeutic tool for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine owing to their regenerative and trophic properties. The best-known and most widely used are bone marrow MSCs which are currently being harvested and developed from a wide range of adult and perinatal tissues. MSCs from different sources are believed to have different secretion potentials and production which may influence their therapeutic effects. To confirm it, we performed a quantitative proteomic analysis based on the TMT technique of MSCs from three different sources: Wharton’s jelly (WJ), dental pulp (DP) and bone marrow (BM). Our analysis focused on MSC biological properties of interest for tissue engineering. We identified a total of 611 differentially expressed human proteins. WJ-MSCs showed the greatest variation compared with the other sources. WJ produced more extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins and ECM-affiliated proteins and appeared more able to modulate the inflammatory and immune response. BM-MSCs displayed enhanced differentiation and paracrine communication capabilities. DP-MSC appeared to promote exosome production. The results obtained confirm the existence of differences between WJ, DP and BM-MSC and the need to select the MSC origin according to the therapeutic objective sought.
Securing IoT networks through SDN technologies
Authors: Miguel-Alonso Jose
Published: July 2023

Security in IoT systems is extremely important, as an intrusion into an IoT device or network can affect not only our domestic lives, but also industrial assets, with the potential to cause enormous damage. We discuss IoT security issues as defined by the OWASP Foundation, focusing on network related aspects. After a brief description of SDN in general and OpenFlow in particular, we discuss how SDN technologies can greatly help in designing and deploying more secure IoT networks by enhancing the cryptographic capabilities of devices, isolating devices or networks, blocking access to unwanted services, redirecting traffic to deep inspection systems, monitoring packet flows and devices, etc. These capabilities can be implemented using open-source OpenFlow controllers such as Faucet.
3D/4D Printing in Advanced Robotics Systems—Recent Developments and Applications
Authors: Blasiak Slawomir , Bochnia Jerzy , Takosoglu Jakub Emanuel , Kozior Tomasz , Nowakowski Lukasz Marian , Skrzyniarz Michal , Krzysztofik Izabela , Blasiak Malgorzata , Vasileva Dimka , Avramova Tanya , Zahorulko Andriy
Published: July 2023

3D/4D printing technologies are currently among the fastest growing, cutting edge fabrication technologies. The scale of their applications is vast and applicable to nearly all industries. 3D printing technologies are particularly popular in robotics, and especially in advanced design innovative solutions for areas such as manufacturing, space technology and medicine. The development of robotics, and in particular of the precision of manufactured components, such as actuators, pneumatic muscles, power transmission units, etc., means that new prototypes are still being made, where the use of 3D printers reduces the production time severalfold and allows for completing the necessary simulations and tests. In addition, the use of 3D printers allows for the production of thin-walled and cellular structures, which is a great advantage compared to conventional fabrication technologies. In the range of 3D printers available on the market, only a few selected technologies allow for actual use in the construction of advanced robot elements (muscles, vibration dampers, etc.). In the era of rapid growth of the precision of the available 3D printers and modern materials, 3D printing may soon become a major tool in robotics. This article presents an overview of 3D printing technologies and materials in terms of their application in robotics and provides examples of the use of 3D and 4D printing in prototyping and fabrication of robotic elements with particular emphasis on the current state of the art. The study considered the possibilities of using 3D/4D printing in robotics with the use of polymeric materials. The review of the literature and the research work currently being carried out in this area is very promising and it seems that 3D/4D printing in robotics is widely used and is still developing, which allows to conclude that in the near future the number of research works in this field will increase rapidly.
Occurrence, Structure, and Abundance Natural and Artificial of Juglans neotropica Diels in Southern Ecuador
Authors: Palacios-Herrera Byron , Pereira-Lorenzo Santiago , Pucha-Cofrep Darwin
Published: July 2023

This study investigated the presence and characteristics of Juglans neotropica in three ecosystems in Southern Ecuador: Montane Evergreen Forest, Evergreen Seasonal Lower Montane Forest, and Semideciduous Foot Montane Forest. The main focus was on the species' multipurpose nature as both a fruit and timber source. Six study sites, totaling at least 0.5 hectares each, were established, with four in Loja province and two in Zamora Chinchipe province.The results showed significant differences in dendrometric variables across the sites, with the most favorable growth recorded in The Tundo, where trees exhibited an average diameter at breast height (DBH) of 45.16 cm, basal area (G) of 1.41 m2, total height (TH) of 19.22 m, canopy height (CH) of 13 m, cubic volume (CV) of 3.55 m3, and total volume (TV) of 5.22 m3. The species displayed a clumped distribution pattern, as indicated by a Morisita index greater than 1. Regarding abundance, the highest density of 297 trees per hectare was found in Argelia, while Victoria had the lowest density of 46 trees per hectare. This research highlights the importance of Juglans neotropica as a multipurpose species, providing both valuable fruits and wood resources in the studied ecosystems of Southern Ecuador.
Pediatric Orthopaedic Observerships in North America for International Surgeons
Authors: Carrillo Laura A. , Katyal Toshali , Panchal Niel N. , Sabharwal Sanjeev
Published: July 2023

Background:

Given the growing interest among international surgeons to participate in North American clinical observerships, it is essential to incorporate international surgeons’ views to further enhance the program’s applicability, value, and accessibility. In this qualitative follow-up study, we explored the motivations, relevance, and opinions about alternate learning platforms among the international surgeons who had participated in a pediatric orthopaedic clinical observership in North America.

Methods:

Using a semistructured interview guide, international surgeons who had participated in a North American pediatric orthopaedic observership during 2009 to 2019 were interviewed until data saturation and inductive thematic saturation were reached. Twenty-one international surgeons representing 15 different countries (1 from a low-income country, 10 from a lower middle-income country, 8 from an upper middle-income country, and 2 from a high-income country) were interviewed.

Results:

The most commonly cited motivations for doing a clinical observership were to advance clinical training and learn specific skills. The clinical and nonclinical skills gained during the observership, such as utilizing an integrated team approach and open communication style, were helpful to most interviewees; however, several respondents highlighted the critical need to adapt and modify surgical indications, techniques, and skills to suit their local environment and limited resource availability. Although respondents were interested in exploring virtual learning models to save time and expense, several preferred a hybrid model, including access to remote learning opportunities and sharing their own clinical experiences with the North American hosts.

Conclusions:

Identifying the visiting surgeon’s motivation for participation can allow North American hosts to align their clinical exposure more closely with the unique needs and aspirations of the international surgeons and enable a more relevant exchange of clinical and nonclinical skills. Use of a blended learning model, including in-person and virtual learning platforms, and the missed opportunity of having the international surgeons share their clinical experiences and skills with their North American counterparts should be explored further.
Web-based Muhammadiyah E-voting Application Using the Laravel Framework
Authors: Ardiansyah Ardiansyah , Rosid Mochamad Alfan , Fitrani Arif Senja
Published: July 2023

Electronic voting is a form of voting that is often used for elections using electronic systems. However, at the time of implementation there was a lot of fraud that only intended for one of the parties. Therefore, a Web-Based Muhammadiyah Association E-Voting Application was created using the Laravel Framework. There is no need to use nails because the DPT (Permanent Voters List) only needs to touch the screen to vote for the elected candidate. This application uses the RFID technology feature to start voting, so that there are no more double votes from the same voter The results of the recapitulation will periodically change according to the number of votes that have been collected and stored in the database. So it is already necessary to calculate manually when the event ends. The results of the votes are automatically counted and processed by the program quickly and efficiently.
Changing fire regimes in East and Southern Africa’s savanna-protected areas: opportunities and challenges for indigenous-led savanna burning emissions abatement schemes
Authors: Croker Abigail Rose , Woods Jeremy , Kountouris Yiannis
Published: July 2023

Late dry-season wildfires in Sub-Saharan Africa’s savanna-protected areas are intensifying, increasing carbon emissions, and threatening ecosystem functioning. Addressing these challenges requires active local community engagement and support for wildfire policy. Savanna burning emissions abatement schemes first implemented in Northern Australia have been proposed as a community-based fire management strategy for East and Southern Africa’s protected areas to deliver win-win-win climate, social, and biodiversity benefits. Here we review and critically examine the literature exploring the design and application of savanna burning emissions abatement schemes in this region, characterising their contextual and implementation challenges.
We show that the application of Northern Australian savanna burning methodologies in East and Southern Africa tend to adopt centrally determined objectives and market-based approaches that prioritise carbon revenue generation at the national level. The exclusive prescription of early-dry season burns in African mesic savannas prone to woody thickening can compromise savanna burning objectives to mitigate late-dry season wildfires and their greenhouse gas emissions in the long-term, as well as present multiple biodiversity trade-offs in the absence of formal metrics monitoring species’ responses to changes in fire regime. These features restrict indigenous participation and leadership in fire management, creating uncertainties over the opportunities for local income generation through carbon trading. Findings suggest that future savanna burning applications will need to address asymmetries between formal institutions and local land governance systems, explicitly acknowledging colonial legacies in institutional arrangements across protected areas and hierarchies in agrarian politics that threaten processes of equitable decentralisation in natural resource management.
We argue that the effective transfer of the Northern Australian fire management model is limited by a lack of long-term ecological and emissions data, and political and institutional barriers, and hindered by the region’s recent colonial history, population growth, and consequences of rapid climatic change. To provide a community-based strategy, savanna burning schemes need to establish context specific legal frameworks and implement Free, Prior, and Informed Consent to safeguard the roles and responsibilities of indigenous and local people and their distribution of carbon benefits.
RNA-seq analysis of circular RNAs and ceRNA networks in human hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Liu Yicun , Dong Zhingxing , Chen Weijie , Cheng Tiaochun , Chen Lin , Ju Linling , Cai Weihua , Luo Xi , Bian Zhaolian
Published: July 2023

Objective An increasing number of circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been identified as competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs) that play important roles in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The aim of this study was to explore the mechanism of action of circRNAs and their ceRNA networks in HCC.Methods Second-generation sequencing technology was used to analyse the expression of circRNAs in HCC. The top ten upregulated circRNAs were selected and validated by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT‒PCR) in another 34 HCC patients. The downstream miRNAs and mRNAs of the circRNAs were explored through database analysis, and finally, the ceRNA networks axes based on these ten circRNAs were constructed.Results By sequencing, we identified 9658 differentially expressed circRNAs, of which 3862 were significantly upregulated. RT-qPCR was performed to validate the top ten upregulated circRNAs, five circRNAs (hsa_circ_0079875, hsa_circ0091580, hsa_circ0091581, hsa_circ0004788 and hsa_circ_0059730) were selected for further analysis. First, the downstream miRNAs and mRNAs of these five circRNAs were predicted to construct ceRNAs network diagrams. The upregulated mRNAs identified in the GEPIA database overlapped with the mRNAs in the ceRNA networks, and 14 overlapping genes were identified. Further analysis revealed four mRNAs (ADSL, AP3B1, MAPRE1, and TRNP1) and five circRNA–miRNA–mRNA axes that were negatively correlated with HCC prognosis.Conclusions Numerous differentially expressed circRNAs exist in HCC, and it can regulate the biological behaviour of HCC through ceRNA networks. Bioinformatics analysis showed that the ceRNA regulatory axes in HCC have high diagnostic and prognostic value and deserve further exploration.
String Stability of Disturbed Switched Vehicle Platoon Systems via Robust Event-Triggered Mechanism
Authors: Chen Jiansong , Xu Liwei , Wang Yan , Jin Xianjian , YIN Guodong
Published: July 2023

This paper presents a robust event-triggered control protocol based on the discrete event-triggered communication scheme (DECS) to resolve the vehicle platoon's communication topologies change, external disturbance, and information delay. The random variation of data transmission link among the platoon in real traffic is considered and molded by the Markov chain combined with the directed graph method. The influence of delays and air resistance on the vehicle platoon is studied under the system parameter of external interferences and equivalent information delays. To ensure the vehicle platoon's inner-vehicle stability, the variable-gain distributed controller is proposed based on the Markovian jumping system stability theory and control. Finally, the stochastic string stability is defined to achieve the attenuation of perturbations as they propagate through the platoon. Simulation studies about a vehicle platoon under four communication topologies random switching with two different control methods are provided to verify the theoretical result. Compared to traditional platoon robust control, it is shown that the proposed control method can achieve the vehicle platoon's stability with a lower computing burden.
GSM-pipeline: GENE-SWitCH pipeline for comprehensive bisulfite sequencing analysis
Authors: de Vos Jani , Derks Martijn F.L. , Kurylo Cyril , Groenen Martien A.M. , Madsen Ole
Published: July 2023

Background DNA methylation is a process by which methyl groups are added to the DNA molecule. Methylation of promoters influence gene expression, as the addition of a methyl group can prevent the binding of certain transcription factors and repress the transcription of the associated gene. Bioinformatics pipelines are a series of computational steps or workflows designed to analyse biological data such as sequencing data. Typically several steps, such as data preprocessing, quality control, alignment, and downstream analysis are involved. These pipelines can be tailored to a specific research question and can be customized with various software and tools. GENE-SWitCH is an EU H2020 project with the aim of providing the functional genome annotation in pig and chicken, with many different assays specifically DNA methylation.
Results We present a pipeline for processing bisulfite sequencing data, which uses nf-core methylseq as a foundation. This extension pipeline includes useful steps such as analysing a bam file, methylation calling, methylation visualisation on a genome-wide level, and methylation statistics.
Conclusion: Our pipeline is useful for the analysis of bisulfite sequencing data, ensuring reproducible results, and stable tool versions. It is easy to use and implement for any given data set and we executed it for analysis of > 80 RRBS and WGBS data sets.
Competency/Outcome based Effective Clinical Supervision (COBECS) Model of Clinical Supervision in Postgraduate Medical Education: Working Model
Authors: Zehra Tabassum , Zuberi Rukhsana Wamiq , Ali Liaquat , Violato Claudio
Published: July 2023

Implementation of Competency based medical education (CBME) requires an organized and structured set of interrelated competencies known as a competency framework. Integration of competencies across residency educational programmes and meaningful competency-based clinical supervision is found to be lacking. Study conducted at Aga Khan University tested a five-dimensional model which can be used for competency based clinical supervision in health professionals at postgraduate medical education level. It investigated various factors, including faculty development through clinical supervisor self-assessment of competencies and resident evaluation to propose a Competency/Outcome-based Model of Clinical Supervision along with its working model.
The Feasibility of Half-Dose Contrast-Enhanced Scanning of Brain Tumours at 5.0 T: a preliminary study
Authors: Jiang Zhiyong , Sun Wenbo , Xu Dan , Mei Hao , Yuan Jianmin , Song Xiaopeng , Ma Chao , Xu Haibo
Published: July 2023

Purpose This study investigated the Gd-based enhanced effects on brain tumours with half-dose at 5.0 T and with full-dose at 3.0 T. Both quantitative and subjective evaluation parameters suggested that half-dose enhanced scanning at 5.0 T MRI might be feasible to meet the clinical diagnostic requirements. Methods Twelve subjects diagnosed with brain tumours were included in this study, and scanned after contrast agent injection at 3.0 T (full-dose) and 5.0 T (half-dose) with a 3D T1-weighted gradient echo sequence, respectively. The post-contrast images were compared between 5.0 T and 3.0 T, in terms of the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) and subjective image quality score with a ten-point Likert scale. Comparing quantitative indices and subjective picture quality ratings with a paired Student's t-test and assessing inter-reader agreement with the intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC). Results A total of 16 enhanced tumours lesions were detected. The SNR was significantly higher at 5.0 T than 3.0 T in gray matter, white matter and enhanced lesions (p < 0.001). The CNR was also significantly higher at 5.0 T than 3.0 T MRI in gray matter-tumor lesion, white matter-tumor lesion, and gray matter-white matter (p < 0.001). Subjective evaluation showed that the internal structure and outline of the tumor lesions were more clearly displayed with half-does at 5.0 T, and the enhanced effects of the lesions was comparable to that with full-dose at 3.0 T. All subjective scores were good to excellent at both 5.0 T and 3.0 T. Conclusion 5.0 T half-dose intravenous contrast agents enhanced scanning might be feasible to meet the clinical diagnostic requirements of brain tumours.
Novel Approach for In-Situ Resource Utilization based Subtractive Manufacturing in Space
Authors: Seidel André , Teicher Uwe , Ihlenfeldt Steffen , Sauer Konstantin , Morczinek Florian , Dix Martin , Niebergall Rick , Durschang Bernhard , Linke Stefan
Published: July 2023

In recent years, space agencies like NASA and ESA have expanded their research activities in the field of Manufacturing in Space. These measures serve to reduce limitations and costs through fairing size, launch mass capabilities or logistic missions. The objective, in turn, is to develop technologies and processes that enable on-demand manufacturing for long-term space missions and on other celestial bodies. Within these research activities, in-situ resources utilization (ISRU) and recycling are major topics. Consequently, this paper considers what is required on-demand in future space missions and provides a corresponding overview of the in-space manufacturing state of the art. The latter is significantly influenced by research activities in the field of additive manufacturing, with only a few results available in the field of subtractive processing. In conclusion, a novel approach for in-situ resource utilization based subtractive manufacturing in space is presented to supplement the existing processes. The approach presented is based on a water abrasive jet process, with regolith simulate being used as the abrasive to separate metal and glass.
Heterojunction Assembled CoO/Ni(OH)2/Cu(OH)2 for Effective Photocatalytic Degradation and Hybrid Supercapacitor Applications
Authors: Mohapatra Subhashree , Das Himadri Tanaya , Tripathy Bankim Chandra , Das Nigamananda
Published: July 2023

Mixed multimetallic-based nanocomposites have been considered a promising functional material giving a new dimension to environmental remediation and energy storage applications. On this concept, a hybrid ternary CoO/Ni(OH)2/Cu(OH)2 (CNC) composite showing sea-urchin-like morphology was synthesized via one-pot hydrothermal approach, and its photocatalytic and electrochemical performances were investigated. The photocatalytic performance was explored using Congo red (CR) as a dye pollutant under visible light illumination. The presence of mixed phases of ternary metal ions could minimize the recombination efficacy of photogenerated charge carriers on the basis of the heterojunction mechanism, resulting in 90 % degradation of CR dye (40 mg L-1). The effect of scavengers coupled with electrochemical experiments revealed O2-. radical as the predominating species responsible for the degradation of CR. From the electrochemical analysis of CNC, the well-distinguished redox peaks indicated the battery-type behaviour with a specific capacity of 405 C g-1. For practical applications, a hybrid supercapacitor (CNC(+)|KOH|AC(-)) was assembled furnishing an energy density of 42 W h kg-1 at a power density of 5160 W kg-1 at 5 A g-1 along with a high capacity retention and coulombic efficiency of 98.83 % over 5000 cycles.
Oncogenic activation revealed by FGFR2 genetic alterations in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinomas
Authors: Pu Xiaohong , Qi Liang , Yan Jia Wu , Ai Zihe , Wu Ping , Yang Fei , Fu Yao , Li Xing , Zhang Min , Sun Beicheng , Yue Shen , Chen Jun
Published: July 2023

Purpose
Except for fusion, FGFR2 genetic alterations have received limited attention, leaving patients harboring activating FGFR2 gene mutations with inadequate access to targeted therapies.
Experimental Design:
We sought to explore FGFR2 genetic alterations in ICC and pan-cancers using fluorescence in situ hybridization and next-generation sequencing. We conducted an analysis of the clinical and pathological features of ICCs with different FGFR2 alterations, compared FGFR2 lesion spectrums through public databases and multicenter data, and performed cellular experiments to investigate the oncogenic abilities of different FGFR2 mutants.
Results
FGFR2 gene fusions were identified in 30 out of 474 ICC samples, while five FGFR2 genetic alterations aside from fusion were present in 290 ICCs. The tumors containing FGFR2 translocations exhibited unique features, which we designated as the “FGFR2 fusion subtypes of ICC”. Molecular analysis revealed that FGFR2 fusions were not mutually exclusive with other oncogenic driver genes/mutations, whereas FGFR2 in-frame deletions and site mutations often co-occurred with TP53 mutations. Multicenter and pan-cancer studies demonstrated that FGFR2 in-frame deletions were more prevalent in ICCs (0.62%) than in other cancers, and were not limited to the extracellular domain. We selected representative FGFR2 genetic alterations, including in-frame deletions, point mutations, and frameshift mutations, to analyze their oncogenic activity and responsiveness to targeted drugs. Cellular experiments revealed that different FGFR2 genetic alterations promoted ICC tumor growth, invasion, and metastasis but responded differently to FGFR-selective small molecule kinase inhibitors (SMKIs).
Conclusions
FGFR2 oncogenic alterations have different clinicopathological features and respond different to SMKIs.
Development of a nomogram to predict survival in advanced biliary tract cancer
Authors: Imaoka Hiroshi , Ikeda Masafumi , Nomura Shogo , Morizane Chigusa , Okusaka Takuji , Ozaka Masato , Shimizu Satoshi , Yamazaki Kentaro , Okano Naohiro , Sugimori Kazuya , Shirakawa Hirofumi , Mizuno Nobumasa , Satoi Sohei , Yamaguchi Hironori , Sugimoto Rie , Gotoh Kunihito , Sano Keji , Asagi Akinori , Nakamura Kazuyoshi , Ueno Makoto
Published: July 2023

Background
The prognosis of advanced biliary tract cancer (BTC) patients remains poor due to limited efficacy of chemotherapy and difficulties in management. Thus, prediction of survival is crucial for the clinical management of advanced BTC. The aim was to develop and validate a nomogram to predict 6-month and 12-month survival in advanced BTC patients treated with chemotherapy.
Methods
A multivariable Cox regression model was used to construct a nomogram in a training set (JCOG1113, a phase III trial comparing gemcitabine plus S-1 [GS] and gemcitabine plus cisplatin, n = 351). External validity of the nomogram was assessed using a test set (JCOG0805, a randomized, phase II trial comparing GS and S-1 alone, n = 100). Predictive performance was assessed in terms of discrimination and calibration.
Results
The constructed nomogram included lymph node metastasis, liver metastasis, carbohydrate antigen 19 − 9, carcinoembryonic antigen, albumin, and C-reactive protein. Uno’s concordance index was 0.661 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.629–0.696) in the training set and 0.640 (95%CI, 0.566–0.715) in the test set. The calibration plots for 6-month and 12-month survival showed good agreement in the two analysis sets.
Conclusions
The present nomogram can facilitate prediction of the prognosis of advanced BTC patients treated with chemotherapy and help clinicians’ prognosis-based decision-making.
A novel framework for analyzing urban water network events and determining the optimal location of urban drinking water relief posts
Authors: Garajeh Mohammad Kazemi
Published: July 2023

Urban water is known as critical sector of urban environments which significantly impacts the life quality and wellbeing of reinstates. In the context of developing sustainable urban drinking system it is critical to analysis network events and develop sufficient systems of water supply. In following this objective, the current study aims to propose an efficient approach for Geospatial based urban water network events analyze and determine the optimal location of urban drinking water relief posts in Zanjan. For this goal, first, we prepared and preprocessed various predisposing variables such as water storage sources, pump stations, traffic density, population density, road network, land use, subscribers, areas with higher water pressure, and accident-prone areas for analyzing the urban water network events and determining the optimal location of urban drinking water relief posts. We then applied an integrated approach of analytical network process (ANP) and deep learning convolutional neural network (DL-CNN) data-driven methods to locate the optimal place of urban drinking water relief posts. Finally, intersection over union and accuracy assessment were employed to evaluate the performance of the results. Our findings show that the DL-CNN performed well with the accuracy of 0.942 than the ANP (0.895) for determining the optimal location of urban drinking water relief posts. The results indicate that the most suitable places for building a relief post are in the center of the city and its surrounding areas might not suitable due to barren lands and sparse population. The results of the study also reveal that areas 5 and 3 are at high risk from the number of urban water network incidents perspective, which require the construction of urban water relief stations.
Can Diode Laser 810 decrease Post Endodontic Pain in Patients with Asymptomatic Necrotic Maxillary Incisors? A Four-Arm Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Abbara Mohammad Tamer , Tolibah Yasser Alsayed , Akil Samar , Hamadah Omar , Achour Hassan , Mahayni Ghina
Published: July 2023

Background and aim: In light of the development of modern technologies and the insertion of laser in the context of endodontic treatment, this study aimed to find the best method for applying the 810 diode laser to relieve post-endodontic pain on necrotic maxillary incisors with periapical lesions within a single-visit treatment. Methods: Eighty patients with a necrotic incisor, diagnosed with asymptomatic periodontitis, received standardized cleaning and shaping procedures, then divided equally into four groups: G1: control group with no laser application, G2: applying the diode laser as an irrigation activation system (IAS), G3: applying the diode laser from the buccal and palatal mucosa, G4: applying the diode laser as an IAS and from buccal and palatal mucosa. The postoperative pain (PP) was assessed using the visual analog scale (VAS) 1, 3, 7, and 14 days after the treatment. The mean values of the VAS score were statistically analyzed. Results: During 14 days after treatment, there was a statistically significant difference between mean values of VAS scores in the four groups (P value < 0.05); G1 scored the highest score, whereas G4 showed the lowest one. Moreover, G4 showed favorable outcomes compared with G2 and G3 during the first three days after treatment. Conclusion: Diode laser reduced the PP after necrotic teeth with large-sized apical lesion treatment, whereas using diode laser either as an IAS or LLLT reduced the PP compared with the control group. Moreover, the usage of a diode laser in both previous techniques represents the best protocol for PP relieve during 14 days of treatment.
Factors of geographical variability of antimicrobial use in Japan
Authors: Kitano Taito , Tsuzuki Shinya , Koizumi Ryuji , Aoyagi Kensuke , Asai Yusuke , Kusama Yoshiki , Ohmagari Norio
Published: July 2023

Background
The evidence regarding the factors affecting the geographical variation of antimicrobial use (AMU) is relatively scarce. The study aimed to evaluate factors potentially associated with geographical variability of AMU per day per 1,000 habitants in 47 prefectures of Japan.
Methods
This is an observational ecological study using the Japanese national database in 2019. The outcome was the defined daily doses per 1,000 inhabitants per day by prefecture. The multivariable negative binomial regression analysis was conducted using patient- and physician-level variables.
Results
The study included 605,391,054 defined daily doses of AMU in 2019 from the 47 prefectures. In the multivariable negative binomial regression analyses for the outcome of total AMU, the proportion of females (RR 1.04 [1.01 − 1.08] per 1% increase, p = 0.021), the proportion of upper secondary graduates going to further education (RR 1.01 [1.00 − 1.01] per 1% increase, p = 0.005) and the annual number of diagnoses related with upper respiratory infections (URIs) per 1,000 inhabitants per day (RR 1.21 [1.10 − 1.34], p < 0.001) were significantly correlated with total AMU.
Conclusions
In the ecological study, the variability of total AMU by Japanese prefecture was associated with the proportion of females, the education level and the number of URI diagnoses per population. The results suggest the potential need for additional stewardship efforts to reduce unnecessary antimicrobial prescriptions for URI.
The Effects of Nozzle Diameter and Length on the Resulting Strand Properties for Shotcrete 3D Printing
Authors: David Martin , Freund Niklas , Dröder Klaus , Lowke Dirk
Published: July 2023

Additive Manufacturing in Construction (AMC) enables new design methods and strategies within the construction industry. In particular, Shotcrete 3D Printing (SC3DP) offers a high degree of design freedom by enabling the deposition of concrete at variable layer orientation based on a wet-mix shotcrete process. However, the mechanical properties and geometry of the printed layers are dependent on the material and process parameters used. In this context, the effects of air and concrete flow rates, path planning parameters, and material parameters have been investigated in previous research. The here presented study investigates the influence of the nozzle geometry on the resulting strand properties, e.g. strand geometry, layer bond strength, and compressive strength, to evaluate nozzle diameter and length as control parameters for the SC3DP process. Experimental investigations were performed with fixed nozzle diameters between 10 and 30 mm and nozzle lengths ranging from 100 to 200 mm. The results show a significant influence of the nozzle diameter on the resulting strand geometry as well as the mechanical properties. Finally, concepts for a nozzle with a controllable outlet diameter were developed and evaluated.
Construction of a near infrared fluorescence system for blood flow imaging of biological tissues
Authors: Zhao Xu , Li Shilin , Song Yue , Fan Lianhui
Published: July 2023

Background
Intraoperative real-time imaging of tissue or blood vessels has certain technical advantages for surgical procedures. But due to various reasons, this technology has not been popularized.
Objective
The purpose of this study is to construct an equipment to apply Indocyanine Green Video Angiography (ICGVA) technology to many practical clinical works.
Methods
ICG was injected into bilateral renal pelvises of the 10 male rabbits and the images of the ureter and bladder were captured. ICG was injected into the ear vein of the other 10 male rabbits, and the images of small intestine were captured.
Results
Through this equipment, we obtained visible light image, near-infrared fluorescence image, and fusion image of the ureter, bladder and intestine.
Conclusion
We constructed and optimized a set of portable and flexible vascular and tissue fluorescence imaging equipment. This equipment can be used for animal experiments, determination of the degree of trauma and intraoperative tissue localization and navigation.
Exploring the sustainable reporting practices of universities in relation to the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for sustainable development
Authors: Nikolaou Ioannis , Tsalis Thomas , Trevlopoulos Nikolaos , Mathea Anna , Avlogiaris Georgios , Vatalis Konstantinos
Published: July 2023

Many universities have recently adopted various practices to promote the aims and principles of sustainable development, such as greening their curriculum, enhancing the environmental performance of their campus and using sustainable criteria in their investment and purchasing behavior. Relatively recently, the definition of the sustainable development was broadened by the introduction of 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) proposed by the United Nations’ (UN) 2030 Agenda which stipulates the new directions for sustainability at global level. Given this background, this paper examines the level of alignment of universities with the 17 SDGs through an analysis of sustainability reports prepared by universities in order to highlight the issues which are mostly discussed by universities in relation to SDGs. To do so, an empirical analysis was carried out on a sample of 37 sustainability reports using a methodological framework based on scoring techniques to analyze their content. The findings show that the universities have disclosed more information about climate change mitigation and adaptation practices and less about SDGs regarding quality of education and peace, democracy and strong institutions.
Portable visual and electrochemical detection of hydrogen peroxide release from living cells based on dual functional Pt-Ni hydrogels
Authors: Wen Dan , Li Guanglei , Chen Yao , Liu Fei , Bi Wenhua , Wang Chenxin , Lu Danfeng
Published: July 2023

It is of great significance to monitor the intra-/extra-cellular concentration of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in biological processes. However, miniaturized devices that realize portable and accurate H2O2 detection are still at an infant stage because of the difficulties to develop facile sensing strategies and further highly-integrated sensing devices. In this work, portable H2O2 sensors are demonstrated based on Pt-Ni hydrogels with excellent peroxidase-like and electrocatalytic activities. Thus, simple and sensitive H2O2 sensing is achieved through both colorimetric and electrochemical strategies. The as-fabricated H2O2 sensing chips exhibit favorable performances such as low detection limits (0.03 μM & 0.15 μM), wide linearity ranges (0.1 μM-10 mM & 0.5 μM-5 mM), outstanding long-term stability (up to 60 days), and excellent selectivity. With the aid of an M5stack development board, portable visual and electrochemical H2O2 sensors are successfully constructed without complicated and expensive equipment as well as professional operators. When applied in the H2O2 detection released from the Hela cells, the obtained results are in good agreement with those from an ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometer (UV-vis) (1.97 μM vs. 2.08 μM) and electrochemical station (1.77 μM vs. 1.84 μM), respectively.