bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diet Change Improves Obesity and Lipid Deposition in High-Fat Diet-Induced Mice
Authors: Ji Tengteng , Fang Bing , Wu Fang , Liu Yaqiong , Cheng Le , Li Yixuan , Wang Ran , Zhu Longjiao
Published: November 2023

The number of obese people is increasing dramatically worldwide, and one of the major causes of obesity is excess energy due to high-fat diets. Several studies have shown that reducing food and energy intake represents a key intervention or treatment to combat overweight/obesity. Here, we conducted a 12-week energy-restricted dietary intervention for high-fat diet-induced obese mice (C57BL/6J) to investigate the effectiveness of diet change in improving obesity. The results revealed that the diet change from HFD to NFD significantly reduced weight gain and subcutaneous adipose tissue weight in high-fat diet-induced obese mice, providing scientific evidence for the effectiveness of diet change in improving body weight and fat deposition in obese individuals. Regarding the potential explanations for these observations, weight reduction may be attributed to the excessive enlargement of adipocytes in the white adipose tissue of obese mice that were inhibited. Diet change significantly promoted lipolysis in the adipose tissue (eWAT: Adrb3, Plin1, HSL, and CPTA1a; ingWAT: CPT1a) and liver (reduced content of nonesterified fatty acids), and reduced lipogenesis in ingWAT (Dgat2). Moreover, the proportion of proliferative stem cells in vWAT and sWAT changed dramatically with diet change. Overall, our study reveals the phenotypic, structural, and metabolic diversity of multiple tissues (vWAT and sWAT) in response to diet change and identifies a role for adipocyte stem cells in the tissue specificity of diet change.
Gastrointestinal Parasites Affecting Non-Human Primates That Are Kept Ex Situ and Their Handlers in Different Brazilian Institutions: Diagnosis and Analysis of Risk Factors
Authors: Dib Laís Verdan , Barbosa Alynne , da Silva Breno , Pissinatti Alcides , Moreira Silvia , Tavares Maria Clotilde , Teixeira Rodrigo , da Costa André Luíz , Muniz José Augusto , Junglos Amauri , Hirano Zelinda Maria , Amendoeira Maria Regina
Published: November 2023

Aim: Determining gastrointestinal parasites’ frequency in non-human primates (NHPs) and handlers in different Brazilian institutions, and associate it with management information. Methods: Different institutions in São Paulo (A), Brasília (B), Rio de Janeiro (C), Pará (D) and Santa Catarina (E) were included in the study. Fecal samples were processed by using coproparasitological techniques; information about NHP handling and professionals’ routine were collected through the use of questionnaires. Results: In total, 33.1% of 511 NHP samples were positive for parasites; the Entamoebidae Group and Strongyloides sp.-compatible eggs were the most detected protozoa and helminths, respectively. The Entamoebidae Group was mainly diagnosed in Alouatta from Institutions E and D, and was also the only parasite detected in handlers. Strongyloides-compatible eggs were mostly evident in fecal samples collected from Cebidae from Institutions B and D. Some risk factors associated with parasite infection were a high number of animals in the same enclosure and their use for research protocol purposes, whereas quarantine, a post-infection vacant period in enclosures and antiparasitic supply were categorized as protective factors against these agents’ infection. Conclusions: Parasites showing different transmission routes but concomitantly circulating in NHP institutions located in different Brazilian regions were identified in the current study, with an emphasis on those presenting zoonotic potential.
Inducing the Abscopal Effect in Liver Cancer Treatment: The Impact of Microwave Ablation Power Levels and PD-1 Antibody Therapy
Authors: Liao Changli , Zhang Guiyuan , Huang Ruotong , Zeng Linyuan , Chen Bin , Dai Haitao , Tang Keyu , Lin Run , Huang Yonghui
Published: November 2023

Microwave ablation (MWA) is an effective treatment for liver cancer (LC), but its impact on distant tumors remains to be fully elucidated. This study investigated the abscopal effects triggered by MWA treatment of LC, at different power levels and with or without combined immune checkpoint inhibition (ICI). We established a mouse model with bilateral subcutaneous LC and applied MWA of varied power levels to ablate the right-sided tumor, with or without immunotherapy. Left-sided tumor growth was monitored to assess the abscopal effect. Immune cell infiltration and distant tumor neovascularization were quantified via immunohistochemistry, revealing insights into the tumor microenvironment and neovascularization status. Th1- and Th2-type cytokine concentrations in peripheral blood were measured using ELISA to evaluate systemic immunological changes. It was found that MWA alone, especially at lower power, promoted distant tumor growth. On the contrary, combining high-power MWA with anti-programmed death (PD)-1 therapy promoted CD8+ T-cell infiltration, reduced regulatory T-cell infiltration, upregulated a Th1-type cytokine (TNF-α) in peripheral blood, and inhibited distant tumor growth. In summary, combining high-power MWA with ICI significantly enhances systemic antitumor immune responses and activates the abscopal effect, offering a facile and robust strategy for improving treatment outcomes.
Fucosylated Chondroitin Sulfates with Rare Disaccharide Branches from the Sea Cucumbers Psolus peronii and Holothuria nobilis: Structures and Influence on Hematopoiesis
Authors: Ustyuzhanina Nadezhda E. , Bilan Maria I. , Anisimova Natalia Yu. , Nikogosova Sofya P. , Dmitrenok Andrey S. , Tsvetkova Evgenia A. , Panina Elena G. , Sanamyan Nadezhda P. , Avilov Sergey A. , Stonik Valentin A. , Kiselevskiy Mikhail V. , Usov Anatolii I. , Nifantiev Nikolay E.
Published: November 2023

Two fucosylated chondroitin sulfates were isolated from the sea cucumbers Psolus peronii and Holothuria nobilis using a conventional extraction procedure in the presence of papain, followed by anion-exchange chromatography on DEAE-Sephacel. Their composition was characterized in terms of quantitative monosaccharide and sulfate content, and structures were mainly elucidated using 1D- and 2D-NMR spectroscopy. As revealed by the data of the NMR spectra, both polysaccharides along with the usual fucosyl branches contained rare disaccharide branches α-D-GalNAc4S6R-(1→2)-α-L-Fuc3S4R → attached to O-3 of the GlcA of the backbone (R = H or SO3−). The polysaccharides were studied as stimulators of hematopoiesis in vitro using mice bone marrow cells as the model. The studied polysaccharides were shown to be able to directly stimulate the proliferation of various progenitors of myelocytes and megakaryocytes as well as lymphocytes and mesenchymal cells in vitro. Therefore, the new fucosylated chondroitin sulfates can be regarded as prototype structures for the further design of GMP-compatible synthetic analogs for the development of new-generation hematopoiesis stimulators.
Evaluation of Salt Stress-Induced Changes in Polyamine, Amino Acid, and Phytoalexin Profiles in Mature Fruits of Grapevine Cultivars Grown in Tunisian Oases
Authors: Habib Abir , Ben Maachia Sihem , Namsi Ahmed , Harbi Ben Slimane Mounira , Jeandet Philippe , Aziz Aziz
Published: November 2023

Salinity stress has become an increasing threat to viticulture in the Tunisian oasis, and more generally, the characterization of salinity tolerance markers can be of great interest for sustainable grape production. This study investigated some metabolic adaptations in different tissues of the ripe berries of indigenous grapevine cultivars after exposure to salt stress to identify the key traits of salt stress tolerance under oasis conditions. We especially focused on the adaptive responses occurring at the level of amino acids, polyamines, and stilbene phytoalexins in the grape berry skin, pulp, and seeds of six grapevine cultivars differing in phenotypic and ampelographic characteristics. Our data showed that amino acids accumulated strongly in the pulp and skin, while resveratrol, trans-piceid and trans-ε-viniferin, as major phytoalexins, significantly accumulated in the seeds. High salinity was also found to increase both the berry skin and pulp contents of essential amino acids such as threonine, valine, leucine, isoleucine, lysine, methionine, and phenylalanine. The amounts of stilbenes also increased under high salinity in the berry skin of all the studied cultivars. Polyamine homeostasis within the different berry tissues suggested enhanced polyamine biosynthesis rather than polyamine oxidation in response to high salinity. Our principal component analysis revealed a clear discrimination between the cultivars based on their metabolic profiles within the ripe berry tissues under high salinity.
The Potential of Double-Faced Polyester-Viscose Woven Fabric as a Porous Substrate for Direct-Coating and Multilayer Concept
Authors: Soekoco Asril Senoaji , Mustafa Dody , Oktavian Dinan , Bahtiar Fahruk , Martina Tina , Nugraha  , Yuliarto Brian
Published: November 2023

Textile-based sensors fabricated using the direct-coating method are the appropriate choice to meet the aspects of flexibility, non-invasiveness, and lightness for continuous monitoring of the human body. The characteristics of the sensor substrate are directly influenced by factors such as the type of weave, thread fineness, fabric density, and the type of polymeric constituent fibers. The fabric used as the sensor substrate, fabricated using the direct-coating method, must be capable of retaining the electrode paste solution, which has higher viscosity, on one surface of the fabric to avoid short circuits during the fabrication process. However, during its application, this fabric should allow the easy passage of analyte solutions with low viscosity as much as possible. Hence, an appropriate fabric construction is required to serve as the substrate for textile-based sensors to ensure the success of the fabrication process and the effectiveness of the resulting sensor’s performance. The development of the structural design of the fabric to be used as a substrate for non-invasive biosensors with a multilayer concept is carried out by weaving and sewing processes utilizing polyester-viscose fibers. During the production process, variations are applied, such as weft yarn density, the characterization of wetting time, absorption rate, maximum wetted radius, spreading speed, and accumulative one-way transport index. The most suitable fabric for use as a substrate for non-invasive biosensors with a multilayer concept, such as in this research, is a fabric with a weft thread density of 70 strands per inch, along with the addition of an analyte transfer thread configuration.
Development of Low-Density Polyethylene Films Coated with Phenolic Substances for Prolonged Bioactivity
Authors: Giotopoulou Iro , Fotiadou Renia , Stamatis Haralambos , Barkoula Nektaria-Marianthi
Published: November 2023

The current study proposes an efficient coating methodology for the development of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) films with prolonged bioactivity for food packaging applications. Three natural phenolic-based substances were incorporated at optimized concentrations in methyl-cellulose-based solutions and used as coatings on LDPE films. The amount of surfactant/emulsifier was optimized to control the entrapment of the bioactive substances, minimizing the loss of the substances during processing, and offering prolonged bioactivity. As a result, the growth of Escherichia coli was substantially inhibited after interaction with the coated films, while coated films presented excellent antioxidant activities and maintained their mechanical performance after coating. Considerable bioactivity was observed after up to 7 days of storage in sealed bags in the case of carvacrol- and thymol-coated films. Interestingly, films coated with olive-leaf extract maintained a high level of antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, at least for 40 days of storage.
Preparation and Properties of Antibacterial Silk Fibroin Scaffolds
Authors: Pan Peng , Hu Cheng , Liang Ahui , Liu Xueping , Fang Mengqi , Yang Shanlong , Zhang Yadong , Li Mingzhong
Published: November 2023

The development of a wound dressing with both antibacterial and healing-guiding functions is a major concern in the treatment of open and infected wounds. In this study, poly(hexamethylene biguanide) hydrochloride (PHMB) was loaded into a 3D silk fibroin (SF) scaffold based on electrostatic interactions between PHMB and SF, and PHMB/SF hybrid scaffolds were prepared via freeze-drying. The effects of the PHMB/SF ratio on the antibacterial activity and cytocompatibility of the hybrid scaffold were investigated. The results of an agar disc diffusion test and a bacteriostasis rate examination showed that when the mass ratio of PHMB/SF was greater than 1/100, the scaffold exhibited obvious antibacterial activity against E. coli and S. aureus. L-929 cells were encapsulated in the PHMB/SF scaffolds and cultured in vitro. SEM, laser scanning confocal microscopy, and CCK-8 assay results demonstrated that hybrid scaffolds with a PHMB/SF ratio of less than 2/100 significantly promoted cell adhesion, spreading, and proliferation. In conclusion, a hybrid scaffold with a PHMB/SF ratio of approximately 2/100 not only effectively inhibited bacterial reproduction but also showed good cytocompatibility and is expected to be usable as a functional antibacterial dressing for wound repair.
Correction: Elbaz et al. Chitin-Based Anisotropic Nanostructures of Butterfly Wings for Regulating Cells Orientation. Polymers 2017, 9, 386
Authors: Elbaz Abdelrahman , Lu Jie , Gao Bingbing , Zheng Fuyin , Mu Zhongde , Zhao Yuanjin , Gu Zhongze
Published: November 2023

In the original publication [...]
Bio-Based PLA/PBS/PBAT Ternary Blends with Added Nanohydroxyapatite: A Thermal, Physical, and Mechanical Study
Authors: Chen Pei-Hua , Chen Chin-Wen , Mao Hsu-I , Dai Chi-An , Su Chie-Shaan , Tsai Jung-Chin , Lin Feng-Huei
Published: November 2023

The physical and mechanical properties of novel bio-based polymer blends of polylactic acid (PLA), poly(butylene succinate) (PBS), and poly (butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT) with various added amounts of nanohydroxyapatite (nHA) were investigated in this study. The formulations of PLA/PBS/PBAT/nHA blends were divided into two series, A and B, containing 70 or 80 wt% PLA, respectively. Samples of four specimens per series were prepared using a twin-screw extruder, and different amounts of nHA were added to meet the regeneration needs of bone graft materials. FTIR and XRD analyses were employed to identify the presence of each polymer and nHA in the various blends. The crystallization behavior of these blends was examined using DSC. Tensile and impact strength tests were performed on all samples to screen feasible formulations of polymer blends for bone graft material applications. Surface morphology analyses were conducted using SEM, and the dispersion of nHA particles in the blends was further tested using TEM. The added nHA also served as a nucleating agent aimed at improving the crystallinity and mechanical properties of the blends. Through the above analyses, the physical and mechanical properties of the polymer blends are reported and the most promising bone graft material formulations are suggested. All blends were tested for thermal degradation analysis using TGA and thermal stability was confirmed. The water absorption experiments carried out in this study showed that the addition of nHA could improve the hydrophilicity of the blends.
Special Issue: “The Design and Optimization of Fire Protection Processes”
Authors: Markova Iveta , Bernatík Aleš
Published: November 2023

This Special Issue, entitled “The Design and Optimization of Fire Protection Processes”, has been created to help readers gain new insights into the field of fire protection [...]
Mobile Energy Storage System Scheduling Strategy for Improving the Resilience of Distribution Networks under Ice Disasters
Authors: Guo Xiaofang , Miao Guixi , Wang Xin , Yuan Liang , Ma Hengrui , Wang Bo
Published: November 2023

The distribution system is easily affected by extreme weather, leading to an increase in the probability of critical equipment failures and economic losses. Actively scheduling various resources to provide emergency power support can effectively reduce power outage losses caused by extreme weather. This paper proposes a mobile energy storage system (MESS) scheduling strategy for improving the resilience of distribution networks under ice disasters. First, the influence of wind and ice loads on power transmission lines is analyzed, and a detailed fault statistical model of transmission lines under an ice disaster is established. Then, the MESS scheduling problem considering the coupling of transportation-distribution networks is transformed into a two-stage optimization problem. The first stage determines the optimal configuration scheme for MESS, and in the second stage, the optimal path selection for MESS can be obtained. Finally, the effectiveness and feasibility of the algorithm proposed in this paper are verified through an improved IEEE-33 node testing system.
Physicochemical Characterization of Potassium Hydroxide Pretreated Chestnut Shell and Its Bioconversion to Lactic Acid by Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus
Authors: Lee Jeongho , Kim Seunghee , Son Hyerim , Lee Kang Hyun , Park Chulhwan , Yoo Hah Young
Published: November 2023

Lactic acid (LA) is an important platform chemical with a wide range of applications, including bioplastic materials, and demand for it is growing rapidly. However, the high cost of feedstock for LA production is a major barrier to industrial production. This study designed a process to produce LA from chestnut shell (CS), a low-cost biomass. The entire process includes KOH pretreatment, enzymatic saccharification, and fermentation. This study investigated the chemical compositions and physicochemical properties of raw CS and KOH pretreated CS (KpCS) to evaluate the impact of the pretreatment process that enhances the conversion of cellulose into glucose. The results showed that KOH affected the lignin removal and surface morphological changes of CS, and FT-IR and TGA patterns correlated to increased cellulose fractions were found. In the fermentation process, Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus was selected as a prominent LA producer, and the fermentation using KpCS hydrolysate was carried out. As a result, cell growth (27%), glucose consumption (23%), and LA production (21%) were all achieved higher than the control group. The LA production yield from our suggested process was estimated to be 187 g/kg CS, and we concluded that CS has a high potential as a feedstock for LA production.
Structural Design and Analysis of a 100 kW Radial Turbine for an Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion–Organic Rankine Cycle Power Plant
Authors: Feng Xin , Li Haoyang , Huang Jie , Ma Qingfen , Lin Mao , Li Jingru , Wu Zhongye
Published: November 2023

In this paper, a 100 kW radial inflow turbine is designed for an ocean thermal energy conversion (OTEC) power plant based on the organic Rankine cycle (ORC) with ammonia as the working fluid. Based on one-dimensional (1D) and three-dimensional computational fluid dynamics (3D-CFD) modeling, the mechanical structure design, static and modal analyses of the turbine and its components are carried out to investigate its mechanical performance. The results show the stress and strain distribution in the volute, stator and rotor, and their maximum values appear, respectively, at the inlet cutout, the tip of the stator outlet and the connection position between the rotor and the shaft. After optimization, all the stresses in the above components are below the allowable values. The frequencies from the first order to the sixth order of the rotor and whole turbine were obtained through modal analysis without prestress and under prestress. The maximum frequency of the rotor and whole turbine is 707.75 Hz and 40.22 Hz, both of which are far away from the resonance frequency range that can avoid resonance. Therefore, the structure of the designed turbine is safe, feasible and reliable so as to better guide actual production.
Polar Amplification in the Earth’s Three Poles Based on MODIS Land Surface Temperatures
Authors: Xie Aihong , Zhu Jiangping , Wang Shimeng , Qin Xiang
Published: November 2023

Polar amplification appears in response to greenhouse gas forcing, which has become a focus of climate change research. However, polar amplification has not been systematically investigated over the Earth’s three poles (the Arctic, Antarctica, and the Third Pole). An index of polar amplification is employed, and the annual and seasonal variations of land surface temperature over the Earth’s three poles are examined using MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) observations for the period 2001–2018. As expected, the warming of the Arctic is most conspicuous, followed by the Third Pole, and is weakest in Antarctica. Compared to the temperature changes for the global land region, positive polar amplification appears in the Arctic and the Third Pole on an annual scale, whereas Antarctic amplification disappears, with a negative amplification index of −0.72. The polar amplification for the Earth’s three poles shows seasonal differences. Strong Arctic amplification appears in boreal spring and winter, with a surface warming rate of more than 3.40 times the global mean for land regions. In contrast, the amplification of the Third Pole is most conspicuous in boreal summer. The two poles located in the Northern Hemisphere have the weakest amplification in boreal autumn. Differently from the positive amplification for the Arctic and the Third Pole in all seasons, the faster variations in Antarctic temperature compared to the globe only appear in austral autumn and winter, and the amplification signal is negative in these seasons, with an amplification index of −1.68 and −2.73, respectively. In the austral winter, the strong negative amplification concentrates on West Antarctica and the coast of East Antarctica, with an absolute value of amplification index higher than 5 in general. Generally, the polar amplification is strongest in the Arctic except from June to August, and Antarctic amplification is the weakest among the Earth’s three poles. The Earth’s three poles are experiencing drastic changes, and the potential influence of climate change should receive attention.
Preliminary Results in Innovative Solutions for Soil Carbon Estimation: Integrating Remote Sensing, Machine Learning, and Proximal Sensing Spectroscopy
Authors: Li Tong , Xia Anquan , McLaren Timothy I. , Pandey Rajiv , Xu Zhihong , Liu Hongdou , Manning Sean , Madgett Oli , Duncan Sam , Rasmussen Peter , Ruhnke Florian , Yüzügüllü Onur , Fajraoui Noura , Beniwal Deeksha , Chapman Scott , Tsiminis Georgios , Smith Chaya , Dalal Ram C. , Dang Yash P.
Published: November 2023

This paper explores the application and advantages of remote sensing, machine learning, and mid-infrared spectroscopy (MIR) as a popular proximal sensing spectroscopy tool in the estimation of soil organic carbon (SOC). It underscores the practical implications and benefits of the integrated approach combining machine learning, remote sensing, and proximal sensing for SOC estimation and prediction across a range of applications, including comprehensive soil health mapping and carbon credit assessment. These advanced technologies offer a promising pathway, reducing costs and resource utilization while improving the precision of SOC estimation. We conducted a comparative analysis between MIR-predicted SOC values and laboratory-measured SOC values using 36 soil samples. The results demonstrate a strong fit (R² = 0.83), underscoring the potential of this integrated approach. While acknowledging that our analysis is based on a limited sample size, these initial findings offer promise and serve as a foundation for future research. We will be providing updates when we obtain more data. Furthermore, this paper explores the potential for commercialising these technologies in Australia, with the aim of helping farmers harness the advantages of carbon markets. Based on our study’s findings, coupled with insights from the existing literature, we suggest that adopting this integrated SOC measurement approach could significantly benefit local economies, enhance farmers’ ability to monitor changes in soil health, and promote sustainable agricultural practices. These outcomes align with global climate change mitigation efforts. Furthermore, our study’s approach, supported by other research, offers a potential template for regions worldwide seeking similar solutions.
A Low-Cost and Fast Operational Procedure to Identify Potential Slope Instabilities in Cultural Heritage Sites
Authors: Morelli Stefano , Bonì Roberta , De Donatis Mauro , Marino Lucia , Pappafico Giulio Fabrizio , Francioni Mirko
Published: November 2023

Italy is famous for its one-of-a-kind landscapes and the many cultural heritage sites characterizing the story of its regions. In central Italy, during the medieval age, some of them were built on the top of high and steep cliffs, often on the top of ancient ruins, to protect urban agglomerations, goods and people. The geographical locations of these centers allowed them to maintain their original conformation over time, but, at the same time, exposed them to a high risk of landslides. In this context, this research aimed to present an integrated and low-cost approach to study the potential landslide phenomena affecting two medieval towns. Field surveys and mapping were carried out through the use of innovative digital mapping tools to create a digital database directly on the field. Data gathered during field surveys were integrated with GIS analyses for an improved interpretation of the geological and geomorphological features. Due to the inaccessibility of the cliffs surrounding the two villages, a more detailed analysis of these areas was performed through the use of unmanned aerial vehicle-based photogrammetry, while advanced differential synthetic aperture radar interferometry (A-DInSAR) interpretation was undertaken to verify the stability of the buildings in proximity to the cliffs and other potential active failures. The results of the study highlighted the similar geometry and structural settings of the two areas. Kinematically, the intersection of three main joint sets tends to detach blocks (sometimes in high volumes) from the cliffs. The A-DInSAR analysis demonstrated the presence of a landslide failure along the northwest side of the Monte San Martino town. The buildings in proximity to the cliffs did not show evidence of movements. More generally, this research gives insights into the pro and cons of different survey and analysis approaches and into the benefits of their procedural integration in space and in time. Overall, the procedure developed here may be applied in similar contexts in order to understand the structural features driving slopes’ instabilities and create digital databases of geological/monitoring data.
Distance to a River Modifies Climate Legacy on Vegetation Growth in a Boreal Riparian Forest
Authors: Li Yingyu , Sun Qiaoqi , Zou Hongfei , Marschner Petra
Published: November 2023

Inter-annual variability in growing season temperature and precipitation, together with snow coverage duration, determine vegetation growth in boreal ecosystems. However, little is known about the impact of concurrent and antecedent climate, particularly snow cover duration, on vegetation growth in a boreal riparian forest. Additionally, significant uncertainty exists regarding whether the distance to a river (as a proxy of groundwater availability) further modifies these climatic legacy effects on vegetation growth. To fill this knowledge gap, we quantified the responses of different vegetation types (shrub, deciduous coniferous and broadleaf forests) to concurrent and antecedent climate variables in a boreal riparian forest, and further determined the magnitude and duration of climate legacies in relation to distance to a river, using MODIS-derived NDVI time series with gridded climate data from 2001 to 2020. Results showed that higher temperature and precipitation and longer snow cover duration increased vegetation growth. For deciduous coniferous forests and broadleaf forests, the duration of temperature legacy was about one year, precipitation legacy about two years and snow cover duration legacy was 3 to 4 years. Further, distance to a river modified the concurrent and antecedent temperature and snow cover duration legacy effects on vegetation growth, but not that of precipitation. Specifically, temperature and snow cover duration legacies were shorter at the sites near a river compared to sites at greater distance to a river. Our research highlights the importance of snow cover duration on vegetation growth and that closeness to a river can buffer adverse climate impacts by shortening the strength and duration of climate legacies in a boreal riparian forest.
Sexual Identity–Behavior Discordant Heterosexuals in Britain: Findings from the National Survey of Sexual Attitudes and Lifestyle 2010–2012 (Natsal-3)
Authors: Calatrava Maria , Sullins D. Paul , James Steph
Published: November 2023

This study delves into heterosexual identity–behavior discordance, exploring the interaction between sexual identification and behavior in the UK. Analyzing representative 2010 data from the British population (N = 12,472), this research categorizes participants into different groups: nonheterosexual, concordant heterosexual, and three discordant heterosexual categories (closeted, experimenters, and desisters). These groups were compared in terms of sociodemographics, attitudes toward sexuality, risk behaviors, and health indicators. Discordance was associated with permissive social attitudes, including behaviors such as adultery and one-night stands, and with increased substance abuse and risky sexual behaviors, especially among the closeted. Surprisingly, the physical and mental health of discordant heterosexuals was similar to concordant heterosexuals, in contrast to the poorer health of nonheterosexuals. Due to the significant variations in lifestyles and health indicators among different groups, this study highlights the importance of providing targeted services and interventions.
Developing a Skilled Workforce for Future Industry Demand: The Potential of Digital Twin-Based Teaching and Learning Practices in Engineering Education
Authors: Hazrat M. A. , Hassan N. M. S. , Chowdhury Ashfaque Ahmed , Rasul M. G. , Taylor Benjamin A.
Published: November 2023

Engineering education providers should foresee the potential of digital transformation of teaching and skill-developing activities so that graduating engineers can find themselves highly aligned with the demands and attributes needed by prospective industrial employers. The advancement of industrial revolutions towards hybridisation of the enabling technologies recognised by Industry 4.0, Society 5.0, and Industry 5.0 have transformed the components of the engineering higher education system remarkably. Future workforce requirements will demand an employee’s multidisciplinary skill mix and other professional qualities. Implementing human-centric decision-making based on insights from the Digital Twin (DT) systems, sustainability, and lean systems is necessary for further economic growth. Recent barriers identified by the Australian Council of Engineering Deans, the development of teaching capabilities, and affordable and digitally transformed learning facilities by education providers were all considered. This paper explores the role of Digital Twins (DTs) in enhancing engineering higher education by incorporating Industry 4.0 components and other industrial advances. By reviewing curricula, pedagogy, and the evolving skill requirements for engineering graduates, this study identifies key benefits of DTs, such as cost-effectiveness, resource management, and immersive learning experiences. This paper also outlines challenges in implementing DT-based labs, including IT infrastructure, data quality, privacy, and security issues. The findings indicate that engineering education should embrace DTs to foster multidisciplinary skills and human-centric decision-making to meet future workforce demands. Collaboration with industry is highlighted as a crucial factor in the successful transformation of teaching practices and in offering real-world experiences. The COVID-19 pandemic has expedited the adoption of DT technologies, demonstrating their utility in minimising educational disruptions. While this paper acknowledges the high potential of DTs to prepare engineering students for future industry demands, it also emphasises the need for professional development among educators to ensure effective and balanced implementation.
Students’ Awareness Regarding Environment Protection in Campus Life: Evidence from Romania
Authors: Cernicova-Buca Mariana , Dragomir Gabriel-Mugurel , Gherheș Vasile , Palea Adina
Published: November 2023

Climate awareness is a major topic of concern, and the Green Deal in Europe attempts to turn states, communities, and local actors towards more environmentally conscious action to reduce, by 2030, the net greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55%. Universities voluntarily adhered to the 2030 Agenda, displaying a wide variety of approaches to respond to sustainability goals and calls for greening. The purpose of the present study is to establish the students’ readiness for action as sustainability promoters, starting with their awareness of environmental issues. Upon focusing on the perceptions of students from the oldest university in western Romania gathered via an online questionnaire in 2023, the research showed that 95.6% of respondents consider climate issues as important or very important to them, even though less than 50% of the sample evaluate their own knowledge of environmental protection as good or very good. The results show that of the parameters that differentiate student awareness and actions, gender and place of residence (on campus/off campus) play a significant role, helping shape tailored strategies and projects to capitalize on students’ predispositions to engage (or not) in environment-related activities.
Evaluation of Kunkur Fines for Utilization in the Production of Ternary Blended Cements
Authors: Mutai Victor Kiptoo , Marangu Joseph Mwiti , M’Thiruaine Cyprian Muturia , Valentini Luca
Published: November 2023

Ternary blended cements, such as limestone calcined clay cement (LC3), represent a type of strategic binder for the mitigation of environmental impacts associated with cement production. These are estimated to reduce CO2 emissions by about 40% compared to ordinary Portland cement (OPC). In this paper, we explore the possibility of producing such ternary blends by utilizing secondary raw materials that may be locally available. Specifically, the primary limestone that is commonly used in LC3 is herein substituted with quarry dust obtained by sourcing “kunkur”, a carbonate-rich sedimentary rock (also known as caliche) that can be locally utilized for the production of ordinary OPC clinker. To optimize the blending proportions of ternary cement consisting of OPC, calcined clay, and kunkur fines, a “design of experiment” (DoE) approach was implemented with the goal of exploring the possibility of reducing the amount of the OPC fraction to values lower than 50%. The properties of the formulated blends were assessed by a combination of techniques that comprise mechanical strength testing, XRD time-dependent quantitative phase analysis, and SEM–EDS microstructural and microchemical analyses. The results suggest that ternary blended cement based on kunkur fines forms hydration products, such as hemicarboaluminates, which are also observed in LC3. This shows that such waste materials can potentially be used in sustainable cement blends; however, the presence of kaolinite in the kunkur fines seems to affect their strength development when compared to both OPC and conventional LC3.
The Future Role of Shared E-Scooters in Urban Mobility: Preliminary Findings from Portugal
Authors: Bigotte Joao F. , Ferrao Filipa
Published: November 2023

E-scooter sharing systems are a new mobility solution that is emerging in cities all throughout the world. Its rapid diffusion and disruptive nature have gained immediate attention from scholars, decision-makers, the public and the media (with strong arguments in favor of or against being put forward). To date, the scientific community has focused mostly on studying the determinants for adoption by end-users, the trip patterns, the safety, and the sustainability of such systems. This research work provides preliminary insights on the future role that these shared mobility systems can play in urban mobility. The study focuses on recent experiences in Portugal (more than a dozen cities and a dozen service providers) drawing on a literature review and an expert survey (N = 23) with local decision-makers, scholars, service providers and civic associations. The analysis provides a positive outlook on the future of shared e-scooters, observes that deployment has been taking place through waves of launch–test–withdraw/expand, and highlights which policies and actions should be prioritized so that these systems can make a truly significant contribution towards sustainable urban mobility and livable cities.
Subchronic Arsenic Exposure Induces Behavioral Impairments and Hippocampal Damage in Rats
Authors: Chu Fang , Yang Wenjing , Li Yang , Lu Chunqing , Jiao Zhe , Bu Keming , Liu Zhipeng , Sun Hongna , Sun Dianjun
Published: November 2023

This study investigated the effects of subchronic arsenic exposure on behavior, neurological function, and hippocampal damage in rats. Thirty-two male Wistar rats were divided into four groups and exposed to different concentrations of arsenic in their drinking water for 12 weeks, while weekly water intake and body weight were recorded. Various neurobehavioral tests were conducted, evaluating overall activity levels, exploratory behavior, short-term memory, spatial learning and memory, anxiety-like behavior, and depressive-like states. Arsenic levels in urine, serum, and brain tissue were measured, and histopathological analysis assessed hippocampal damage using hematoxylin and eosin staining. The results demonstrated that arsenic exposure did not significantly affect overall activity or exploratory behavior. However, it impaired short-term memory and spatial learning and memory functions. Arsenic-exposed rats exhibited increased anxiety-like behavior and a depressive-like state. Arsenic levels increased dose-dependently in urine, serum, and brain tissue. The histopathological examinations revealed significant hippocampal damage, including neuronal shrinkage, cell proliferation, irregular structure, disordered arrangement, and vacuolation. These findings emphasize the importance of understanding the impact of arsenic exposure on behavior and brain health, highlighting its potential neurological consequences.
Identification of Adenovirus E1B-55K Interaction Partners through a Common Binding Motif
Authors: Chalabi Hagkarim Nafiseh , Ip Wing-Hang , Bertzbach Luca D. , Abualfaraj Tareq , Dobner Thomas , Molloy David P. , Stewart Grant S. , Grand Roger J.
Published: November 2023

The adenovirus C5 E1B-55K protein is crucial for viral replication and is expressed early during infection. It can interact with E4orf6 to form a complex that functions as a ubiquitin E3 ligase. This complex targets specific cellular proteins and marks them for ubiquitination and, predominantly, subsequent proteasomal degradation. E1B-55K interacts with various proteins, with p53 being the most extensively studied, although identifying binding sites has been challenging. To explain the diverse range of proteins associated with E1B-55K, we hypothesized that other binding partners might recognize the simple p53 binding motif (xWxxxPx). In silico analyses showed that many known E1B-55K binding proteins possess this amino acid sequence; therefore, we investigated whether other xWxxxPx-containing proteins also bind to E1B-55K. Our findings revealed that many cellular proteins, including ATR, CHK1, USP9, and USP34, co-immunoprecipitate with E1B-55K. During adenovirus infection, several well-characterized E1B-55K binding proteins and newly identified interactors, including CSB, CHK1, and USP9, are degraded in a cullin-dependent manner. Notably, certain binding proteins, such as ATR and USP34, remain undegraded during infection. Structural predictions indicate no conservation of structure around the proposed binding motif, suggesting that the interaction relies on the correct arrangement of tryptophan and proline residues.
Antiviral Activity of Probenecid and Oseltamivir on Influenza Virus Replication
Authors: Murray Jackelyn , Martin David E. , Sancilio Fred D. , Tripp Ralph A.
Published: November 2023

Influenza can cause respiratory infections, leading to significant morbidity and mortality in humans. While current influenza vaccines offer varying levels of protection, there remains a pressing need for effective antiviral drugs to supplement vaccine efforts. Currently, the FDA-approved antiviral drugs for influenza include oseltamivir, zanamivir, peramivir, and baloxavir marboxil. These antivirals primarily target the virus, making them vulnerable to drug resistance. In this study, we evaluated the efficacy of the neuraminidase inhibitor, oseltamivir, against probenecid, which targets the host cells and is less likely to engender resistance. Our results show that probenecid has superior antiviral efficacy compared to oseltamivir in both in vitro replication assays and in vivo mouse models of influenza infection.
Electric Vehicles Charged with Solar-PV: A Brazilian Case Study for 2030
Authors: Costa Danilo da , Cobas Vladimir Rafael Melian
Published: November 2023

Electric vehicles and photovoltaic power stations can play an important role in replacing fossil fuels. This article presents a case study on the placement of charging stations powered by photovoltaic energy along an important highway in Brazil. A demand model was adopted to elaborate three scenarios for 2030 with different participation levels of electric vehicles in the Brazilian market. An optimized allocation model was used to derive the location and number of charging stations required to meet the charging demand. The results provided a list of adequate locations for installing the charging stations and offered insights into the consumed electricity and greenhouse gas emissions that could be mitigated by these actions. A financial analysis was conducted, and it was determined that the charging costs, based on the Internal Rate of Return calculation, were 10%. These costs were compared to the fueling costs of other traditional vehicles. The results showed that the costs can be 72% lower than the cost of refueling current conventional automobiles. The results of this study can serve as a reference in the public policy debate, as well as for investors in fast charging stations.
Identification of Prototheca from the Cerebrospinal Fluid of a Cat with Neurological Signs
Authors: Lanave Gianvito , Pellegrini Francesco , Palermo Giuseppe , Zini Eric , Mercuriali Edy , Zagarella Paolo , Bányai Krisztián , Camero Michele , Martella Vito
Published: November 2023

Prototheca infections are rare in cats, and they are usually associated with cutaneous or subcutaneous infections by P. wickerhamii, with no evidence of neurological signs or systemic disease. In this study, we report the identification of prototheca in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of a cat with neurological symptoms. Fourteen CSF samples were gathered from cats presented with neurological disease between 2012 and 2014. The inclusion criteria for the samples were an increase in CSF protein and cell number (pleocytosis), suggestive of an infectious inflammatory status of the central nervous system (CNS). Nine samples fulfilled the inclusion criteria (inflammatory samples), while five samples, used as control, did not (non-inflammatory samples). All the samples were screened molecularly for different pathogens associated with CNS disease in cats, including prototheca. Out of 14 CSF samples, only one inflammatory sample tested positive for prototheca. Upon sequence and phylogenetic analysis of the amplicon, the strain was characterized as P. bovis. This report is the first documented evidence of prototheca in the cerebrospinal fluid of a cat with neurological signs. Prototheca should be considered in the diagnostics procedures on the CNS of cats presented with infectious diseases.
Theoretical and Non-Dimensional Investigations into Vibration Control Using Viscoelastic and Endochronic Elements
Authors: Kletschkowski Thomas
Published: November 2023

Theoretical and non-dimensional investigations have been performed to study the vibration control potential of approaches that are not only based on viscoelastic but also on endochronic elements. The latter are known from the endochronic theory of plasticity and provide the possibility of establishing rate-independent schemes for vibration control. The main question that has to be answered is: Can rate-independent damping be efficiently used to reduce mechanical vibrations? To answer this question, non-dimensional models for dynamical systems are derived and analyzed numerically in the time domain as well as in the frequency domain. The results are used to compare the performance of an optimally tuned endochronic absorber to the performance of an optimally tuned dynamic absorber with viscoelastic damping. Based on a novel closed-form representation for non-linear systems with endochronic elements, it has been possible to prove that the rate-independent control of vibration results in an overall control profit that is close to the control profit obtained by the application of well-established approaches. It has also been found that the new concept is advantageous if anti-resonances have to be considered in broadband vibration control. Based on these novel findings, a practical realization in the context of active vibration control is proposed in which the rate-independent control law is implemented with an appropriate signal processing hardware.
Sediment Transport Beneath a Simulated Partial Ice Cover: Effects of Asymmetric Border Ice
Authors: Rouzegar Mina , Clark Shawn P.
Published: November 2023

With the onset of winter in cold regions, border ice begins to form, impacting sediment transport rate and distribution. Understanding the effect of ice cover is crucial in regions with prolonged sub-freezing temperatures, as water bodies remain frozen for a considerable part of the year. While the existing literature includes many studies on sediment transport in open channel flow and several studies on completely ice-covered flow, there is limited research on sediment transport in partially ice-covered channels. Addressing this gap, the current study conducted laboratory experiments in a rectangular flume at the Hydraulics Research and Testing Facility, University of Manitoba, Canada. The investigation focused on examining the influence of asymmetric border ice, varying coverage ratios in asymmetric partially ice-covered flow, and changing flow strengths on bedload transport rate and distribution. Additionally, a comparison was made with symmetric partially ice-covered flow conditions. The findings indicate that the presence of asymmetric border ice indeed affected the bedload transport distribution within the channel, causing non-uniform bedload transport distribution across the channel width, with peak values concentrated in the center of the open flow section. Increased asymmetry in border ice leads to greater asymmetry in bedload transport rate distribution. Despite these pronounced differences in bedload transport rate across the channel width, the cross-section-averaged bedload transport rate could still be estimated utilizing the conventional equations, used for open channel flow, fully ice-covered flow, and symmetric partially ice-covered flow, with the effect of ice cover accounted for by incorporating an additional boundary in the calculation of the wetted perimeter, leading to adjustments in the flow strength.