bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Automatic Irrigation System with Water Pumps and Sensor in the Junin Region Peru
Authors: Antony Torres-Carbajal Andree , Caleb Nunez Delgadilo Hasler , Raul Valle-De La Cruz Jojan , Michael Beraun-Espiritu Manuel , Alberto Coaquira-Rojo Carlos , Andre Beraun-Arroyo Ethan
Published: December 2023

This project presented the design and implementation of an automatic irrigation system with water pumps and sensors, powered by a photovoltaic system, in a simulation programme (Proteus). This project is designed for a harvesting site located in the district of Huancan-Junin. The project showed that it is feasible to improve the irrigation system for people who focus on agriculture. In addition, a control system was implemented based on programming, simulations, and mathematical models. Where we can perform the respective tests for the development of the project. The results of this project will be used to improve an autonomous irrigation system with pumps and sensors. Also, it will be powered by a photovoltaic system in order to reduce the physical effort of farmers and give them a better quality of life.
Strategic Analysis of Indonesia’s Banking Companies in Dealing with The COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Faiq Haidar Muhammad , Firsty Lestari Puspita , Meirani Utami Riarsari
Published: December 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected stock prices worldwide, including those in the banking industry. Bank Central Asia Tbk (BBCA), Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BBRI), and Bank Negara Indonesia (BBNI) are issuers on the Indonesia Stock Exchange. Based on the Company's Annual Report, BBCA's stock price did not decrease in 2018-2022, whereas other banks experienced a decline in 2020 when the COVID-19 pandemic occurred. This research will analyze BBCA's strategy and financial performance in facing business challenges, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, compared to other banks such as BBRI and BBNI. The author uses David's strategic analysis approach to identify the strategies implemented and compare prices for BBCA, BBRI, and BBNI stocks in 2018-2022. The author groups the strategy analysis into three conditions: before COVID-19, during COVID-19, and after COVID-19. The strategy at BBCA before COVID-19 used the Horizontal Integration strategy, while BBRI used the Market Penetration strategy, and BBNI also used the Market Penetration and Forward Integration strategies. As a result, supply chain optimization made BBNI's share price superior to BBCA and BBRI in 2018-2019. However, during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, BBCA used a different strategy, namely Market Development with the banking movement from home; where this movement made BBCA superior during the time of restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic. Finally, after the COVID-19 era in 2021 and 2022, the three banks used the same strategy: Related Diversification and Product Development. The results of this study, a sustainable strategy is needed to survive in the face of a pandemic. The acquisition of Bank Digital by BBCA facilitated transactions in the COVID-19 era, where there were high restrictions on community activities to reduce the virus transmission rate. In addition, digital transformation also facilitates transactions anywhere and anytime, so this is directly proportional to customer satisfaction and increased operating profit. A company's strong performance gains investor confidence, leading to a favorable stock price due to increased investments.
Grip Strength and Body Balance in Static and Dynamic Push Walkers Measurement Using Force Sensing Resistors and Kinect System
Authors: Herdiman Lobes , Susmartini Susy , Adi Naufal
Published: December 2023

Most parents use push walkers to encourage toddlers in gross and fine motor stimulation to develop basic walking skills. Push walkers are a choice for parents other than baby walkers to help toddlers under one year learn to walk. The push walker options for toddlers include static (the shaft moves in place) and dynamic (moving mobile). This study aimed to compare the effect of push walkers between static and dynamic types on motor stimulation of toddlers using biomechanics by measuring hand grip strength and body balance. This research contributes to selecting a push walker for parents to support gross and fine motor development after agreeing on the consideration of the toddler expert panel for the toddler walking task simulation using a push walker involving nine toddlers according to body mass index. Simulation of toddler walking in two experimental sessions using static and dynamic push walkers in measuring hand grip strength using force-sensing resistors and body balance using the Kinect system with Vitruvius software. The grip strength value was tested by paired t-test to determine the significance of the grip strength value. Body balance values were tested by paired t-test to determine the significance of leg compression force and leg moment. Dynamic push walker has a greater value of grip strength than static, and p-value = 0.001 (< 0.005), providing good motor stimulation to toddlers when pushing with more muscular grip strength, allowing the toddler's hand muscles to tighten up. Static push walkers have a greater compression force and foot moment than dynamic and p-value = 0.001 (< 0.005), providing gross motoric stimulation to toddlers while walking in a balanced and stable manner, allowing the toddler's leg muscles to tighten up.
Analysis Of Stress And Deformation In Parametric Furniture Using The Finite Element Method
Authors: Fariz Nuthqy , Putra Kristianto line Fesa , Amarta Zain , Hutasoit Nicolas , Amalia Devi
Published: December 2023

One method of designing furniture is to use parametric design. Parametric design method is a design method in which design uses certain patterns. With the parametric design method, furniture that is very good in shape and aesthetics is produced, one of which is parametric TV table furniture. TV table is a type of furniture that has the function of placing a TV, multimedia supporting tv, mini library, and storage of other mini equipment. To carry out its function, furniture must also be tested for strength, one of which uses the finite element method with the help of ANSYS software version 18.1. The analysis aims to determine the stress and deformation. The simulation results with loads of 400N, 600N, 800N and 1.000N are maximum equivalent stress of 7,05x10-5 Pa, 1,05x106 Pa, 1,41x10-6 Pa, and 1,76x10-6 Pa. The highest maximum principal stress is equal to 1,16x10-5, 1,75x10-5, 2,33x10-5, and 2,92x10-5. Total deformation of 8,27x10-6m, 1,24x10-5m, 1,65x105m, and 2,06x10-5m. The conclusion of this study shows that the results of stress and deformation analysis have no change in shape and failure in load bearing. This shows that parametric TV table furniture can perform its function by being able to withstand TV loads and other furniture until 100Kg (1.000N) with safety factor 1,8.
Workshop Location Selection using Best Worst Method (BWM) and Additive Ratio Assessment
Authors: Krisnawati Maria , Fahrezi Yoga Lintang , Sofiana Amanda , Waluyo Sugeng , Sibarani Ayu Anggraeni
Published: December 2023

Selecting the best new workshop location is one of the businesses that can support a company's success. In this study, we used two combined methods: the BWM method was used to determine the weight of the criteria and to evaluate new location alternatives against the site selection criteria, while the ARAS method was used to rank the location alternatives. This study was conducted by collecting data on criteria for choosing the best location, which are profit (price and market), convenience (workshop access, land area, and environment), and support (location of suppliers and labor). The best new workshop location is obtained by filling out the BWM questionnaire for weighting each criterion and evaluating location alternatives, and then ranking the location alternative using the ARAS method. The numerical example of a case study shows that location K2 was chosen as the best new location for the welding workshop because it has the highest score in the alternative ranking of 0.9713. Hence, by combining BWM dan ARAS methods, the decision maker could make their best decision for selecting their new workshop location with multicriteria consideration.
Analysis of Automation Testing Using Repeato for Functional Testing of the Yess Nutrition Application Based on Flutter
Authors: Ari Rifqi Muhammad , Endang Anjarwani Sri , Hernawan Ari
Published: December 2023

Automated testing has the advantage of executing test cases faster than manual testing and has a higher accuracy rate because it can detect more defects in the application. Automated testing is also effective for regression testing performed when there is a fix or update, to ensure that the fix does not cause new bugs to appear in the system. Therefore, automated testing becomes essential to replace manual testing. Automated testing involves the use of testing tools or frameworks that can reduce the time required in the testing process. This paper reviews Repeato software as an automatic testing tool, where Repeato works based on Computer vision. Experiments were conducted to see the test steps and results of the application display rendering time using the Repeato tool. The advantage of Repeato lies in its ability to automate visualbased testing, which can save the time and effort required in manual testing. However, as is the case with other testing tools, Repeato also has its limitations and drawbacks. Repeatos may not be able to recognize visual elements that are very complex or have arbitrary patterns. Repeato can conduct two rounds of tests on the Yess Nutrition application within 216 seconds, which is equivalent to 3.6 minutes.
An Analysis of Image Enhancement Effects on Convolutional Neural Network-based Pulmonary Tuberculosis Detection
Authors: Susilo Devito , Wahyono
Published: December 2023

Pulmonary Tuberculosis (TB) is a primary global infectious disease. Diagnosing TB patients involves medical examination and chest X-ray (CXR) imaging. This CXR image creates an opportunity to utilize machine learning to help physicians and radiologists diagnose TB suspects. Due to the inconsistency of image quality, image enhancement is one of the preprocessing steps to overcome the poor quality of the image. This study examines the effects of several image enhancement techniques, i.e., Histogram Equalization (HE), Contrast Limited Adaptive Histogram Equalization (CLAHE), and Fast Fourier Transform (FFT). These enhanced images are input for a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN). InceptionV3 is a transfer learning architecture with ImageNet as the pre-trained model. The image dataset consists of 3,500 normal and 3,500 tuberculosis CXR images. The best performance, in terms of accuracy and processing time, is achieved by the CLAHE enhancement technique, increasing accuracy by 4.57% compared to the original images as input and a processing time of 5.6 ms faster per testing image. A deeper analysis shows despite FFT achieving high performance, the processing time increases by 14.4 ms compared to the original image processing time. This study concluded that each image enhancement needs to consider the characteristics of the images.
Design and Implementation of an Automated Robotic Bartender Using VDI 2206 Methodology
Authors: Kevin Vega-Rojas Jhonatan , Samuel Andrade-Miranda Kevin , Justiniano-Medina Albert , Alex Alarcon Vasquez Cleo , Michael Beraún-Espíritu Manuel
Published: December 2023

Today, robotics has made remarkable advances in a number of industries, including the food and beverage sector. One area of particular interest is the development of an automated bartender capable of efficiently preparing cocktails and drinks. In this context, a state-of-the-art robotic bartender has been designed and implemented following the VDI 2206 methodology, developed by the Association of German Engineers (VDI). This methodology has allowed a more precise definition of the product and accurate estimations in all phases of the mechanical, electrical, and electronic design, and for the mechanical design of the robotic bartender, it prioritizes a solid and safe structure to support the weight of the bottles and components while focusing on an attractive design to improve the user experience. The system features precise sensors to detect and measure ingredients and intelligent control algorithms to ensure accurate dosing. The user interface is intuitive, allowing for uncomplicated cocktail selection and drink customization, and Proteus software was used for the electrical and electronic design, which facilitated extensive simulation and debugging. The system incorporates a PIC16F877A microcontroller to manage and coordinate various functions such as sensors, actuators, and communications. Finally, the pilot implementation has demonstrated the system's effectiveness in preparing a wide variety of cocktails with reduced preparation time. The robotic bartender can produce 10–12 cocktails every 10 minutes, which improves the productivity of the establishments and benefits both bartenders and customers.
Diffusion models of grown-in and implanted p-type dopant in III-V semiconductor compounds
Authors: Koumetz Serge D.
Published: December 2023

This research shows that the diffusion of grown-in and implanted Be atoms in III-V considered semiconductor materials, such as the Liquid-Encapsulated Czochralski-grown (LEC) GaAs as well as the Gas-Source Molecular Beam Epitaxy (GSMBE) In0.53Ga0.47As, In0.73Ga0.27As0.58P0.42, In0.53Ga0.47As/In0.73Ga0.27As0.58P0.42, In0.53Ga0.47As/InP compounds, taking place during the Rapid Thermal Annealing (RTA) process, is perfectly well explained by the “full” version of the kick-out mechanism operating through singly positively ionized Be interstitials and group III self-interstitial ions (Ga, In) in all their states of positive charge including neutral. Numerical solutions of the differential equations, corresponding to the considered system of diffusion reactions, have been calculated using the finite difference approach and our elaborate finite difference-Bairstow method. Such a model naturally emerges from most research works, including ours, in the considered field, over the last decades and makes it possible to “reconcile” their different diffusion models. In this study, we also present and analyze the Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (SIMS) profiles of the distribution of implanted Be in GaAs at an energy of 100 keV with a high dose of 1.0 ⋅ 1015cm−2 and annealed at temperatures ranging from 700 to 850 °C for à time ranging from 60 to 240s.
On the response of re-entrant auxetic structure under dynamic crushing
Authors: Petit Adeline , Beaujouan David , Delille Rémi , Chaari Fahmi , Langlet André
Published: December 2023

The present work focuses on the dynamic crushing response of 2D re-entrant auxetic honeycomb. The aim of this work is to propose analytic formulations to predict the crushing strength of the considered structure by including design parameters (specific geometrical ratios and/or material properties). The model for dynamic impact is based on shock waves propagation analogy in a rigid, perfectly plastic, locking (R-P-P-L) material model. The formulations depend on the geometric and the material characteristics of the auxetic but also on the impact velocity. Finite Element simulations of the impact of a plate on an auxetic structure were carried out using the RADIOSS® explicit solver. The impact velocities varies from 35 m/s to 200 m/s. The numerical simulations presented in this study show good accordance between analytical and Finite Element results.
Risiko für Herz und Niere bei Menschen mit chronischer Nierenerkrankung
Authors: Kuhlmann Martin K.
Published: December 2023

Industriell hochverarbeitet Lebensmittel stehen aufgrund zahlreicher Hinweise auf negative gesundheitliche Auswirkungen schon länger in der Kritik. Fast Food, zuckerhaltige Snacks, abgepackte Desserts, Soft-Drinks und andere typische Vertreter der Gruppe 4 der NOVA-Klassifikation von Lebensmitteln enthalten zum Zweck der Haltbarkeit, des Geschmacks, der Verzehrfertigkeit und nicht zuletzt auch des wirtschaftlichen Profits höhere Mengen an Zucker, ungesunden Fetten, Salz und künstlichen Zusatzstoffen, jedoch nur einen geringen Anteil an essenziellen Nährstoffen. Ein gesteigerter Verzehr hochverarbeiteter Lebensmittel geht in der Allgemeinbevölkerung und auch bei Menschen mit chronischer Nierenerkrankung (CKD) mit einem gesteigerten kardiovaskulären Risiko einher. Ob diese auch einen negativen Effekt auf den Verlauf von Nierenerkrankungen haben, wurde bislang unzureichend untersucht.
Stellungnahme des DN e. V. zum Dialysepflegestandard des fnb e. V.
Authors: Weinreich Thomas
Published: December 2023

Im Mai 2023 hat der Fachverband nephrologischer Berufsgruppen e. V. (fnb) ein als „Pflegestandard“ bezeichnetes Positionspapier zur Pflege in der Nephrologie und Nierenersatztherapie veröffentlicht, ohne Mitwirkung betroffener ärztlicher Fachverbände. Der Verband Deutsche Nierenzentren (DN) e. V. hat gemeinsam mit der Patienten-Heimversorgung (PHV) und dem KfH Kuratorium für Dialyse und Nierentransplantation e. V. eine Stellungnahme zu diesem Positionspapier verfasst und die Deutsche Gesellschaft für Nephrologie (DGfN) als Fachgesellschaft nachdrücklich aufgefordert, auf den fnb einzuwirken, das publizierte Papier als „Standard“ zurückzuziehen – bisher ohne Erfolg.
Sport an der Hämodialyse
Authors: Haupt Franziska
Published: December 2023

Ziel dieser Forschungsarbeit war es festzustellen, ob Sport während der Hämodialyse (HD) Auswirkungen auf das Kt/V hat und wenn ja, welche dies sind. Es wurden 6 Patienten unabhängig von Alter, Geschlecht, Grunderkrankung, Dauer der Dialyse und Restdiurese ausgesucht. Alle Teilnehmer sollten für die Dauer von 3 Monaten während der HD für 30 Minuten mittels Betten ergometer trainieren. Es erfolgten vorab und im Anschluss des Projektes Kt/V-Kontrollen. Die Ergebnisse zeigten jedoch keine wesentlichen Veränderungen der Kt/V-Werte. Positive Effekte hatte der Sport auf den Phosphat- und HbA1c-Wert. Die Patienten fühlten sich durch den Sport fitter, hatten laut eigenen Aussagen eine bessere Laune und waren motivierter. Sie hatten in ihrer Freizeit mehr Energie als vor dem regelmäßigen Sport, wodurch sie allgemein aktiver waren.
tert-Butoxide-Mediated Protodeformylative Decarbonylation of α-Quaternary Homobenzaldehydes
Authors: Stokes Benjamin J. , Cai Xiao , Amsbaugh Ritter V. , Drake Lauren J. , Kotamraju Ravi M. A. , Licauco Nicholas Javier C.
Published: December 2023

tert-Butoxide mediates the Haller–Bauer-type (protodeformylative) decarbonylation of readily accessed α-quaternary homobenzaldehydes and related compounds at room temperature, generating cumene products. Both geminal dialkyl and geminal diaryl substituents are tolerated. gem-Dimethyls are sufficient for decarbonylation of polycyclic arenyl substrates whereas monocyclic aromatic homobenzaldehydes require cyclic gem-dialkyls or gem-diaryls for significant decarbonylation.
Percutaneous Mechanical Thromboembolectomy in Acute and Subacute Lower Limb Ischemia: How I Do It
Authors: Vorwerk Dierk
Published: December 2023

This article describes the author's approach to peripheral arterial thromboembolism and describes the step-by-step access, approach, and technique depending on the site and location of occlusion.
On the Necessity of Canonical Momentum Over mv Momentum, Illustrated with Perturbations on the Classical Ideal Gas
Authors: Isaacs Charles A. , Neuenschwander Dwight E.
Published: December 2023

Through the formalism of the partition function, perturbations on the classical ideal gas are considered. The perturbations include externally applied fields and rotating the reference frame. The rotating reference frame offers a stark pedagogical opportunity to show why statistical mechanics requires canonical momentum in contrast to mv momentum.
The Cosmic Ray Rate in Earth’s Atmosphere
Authors: Vetters Garath , Vishnevskaya Alexandra , Youngsang Ji Eric , Carrell Kenneth
Published: December 2023

Two charged particle detectors were built using resources available from the Cosmic Watch program. Along with other atmospheric trends, the cosmic ray rate as a function of altitude was measured to heights above 20 km via the use of high-altitude balloon launches with the detectors as part of the payload. Atmospheric data, verification of the detectors, and cosmic ray rates will be discussed.
Characterization of Iron Oxide Samples Using Mössbauer Spectroscopy and Hysteresis Loops
Authors: Halmar Noah , Hammer Mikala , Netland Hayden , Perkins Nick , Streyle Taylor , Thomasson Colton , Vanhoever Lucas
Published: December 2023

In this work, we used Mössbauer spectroscopy and magnetometry at room temperature to investigate the magnetic properties of four different iron oxide samples (α-FeOOH, γ-Fe2O3, or Fe3O4 and α-Fe2O3) before and after annealing at 1000°C for one hour. We found that after annealing, all four samples exhibited the same properties as hematite (α-Fe2O3). These results show that the iron oxides in this study underwent phase transformations from an initial phase of either α-FeOOH, γ-Fe2O3, or Fe3O4 to a single final phase of α-Fe2O3.
Response of a Liquid 3He Neutron Detector
Authors: Sharbaugh A. E. , Jones L. , Villano A. N.
Published: December 2023

The 3He(n,p) process is excellent for neutron detection between thermal and ∼4 MeV because of the high cross section and near-complete energy transfer from the neutron to the proton. This process is typically used in gaseous forms with ionization readout detectors. Here we study the response of a liquid 3He neutron detector with a scintillation readout. We anticipate an efficiency boost of around a factor of 64 compared to 10-atm gaseous detectors, given similar detector volumes.
Ultrasonic cleaning using oscillating microbubbles
Authors: Green Leigh Ann
Published: December 2023

Shape oscillation of bubbles may be the key to cleaning wounds without causing more damage.
Exact and solitary wave structure of the tumor cell proliferation with LQ model of three dimensional PDE by newly extended direct algebraic method
Authors: Ghazanfar Sidra , Ahmed Nauman , Ali Syed Mansoor , Iqbal Muhammad Sajid , Akgül Ali , Shar Muhammad Ali , Bariq Abdul
Published: December 2023

An essential stage in the spread of cancer is the entry of malignant cells into the bloodstream. The fundamental mechanism of cancer cell intravasation is still completely unclear, despite substantial advancements in observing tumor cell mobility in vivo. By creating therapeutic methods in conjunction with control engineering or by using the models for simulations and treatment process evaluation, tumor growth models have established themselves as a crucial instrument for producing an engineering backdrop for cancer therapy. Because tumor growth is a highly complex process, mathematical modeling has been essential for describing it because a carefully crafted tumor growth model constantly describes the measurements and the physiological processes of the tumors. This article discusses the exact and solitary wave behavior of a tumor cell with a three-dimensional linear-quadratic model. Exact solutions have been discussed in detail using the newly extended direct algebraic method, which presents a variety of answers to this issue based on the conditions applied. This article also illustrates its graphical behavior with surface and contour plots of several solitons.
Machine learning-enabled autonomous operation for atomic force microscopes
Authors: Kang Seongseok , Park Junhong , Lee Manhee
Published: December 2023

The use of scientific instruments generally requires prior knowledge and skill on the part of operators, and thus, the obtained results often vary with different operators. The autonomous operation of instruments producing reproducible and reliable results with little or no operator-to-operator variation could be of considerable benefit. Here, we demonstrate the autonomous operation of an atomic force microscope using a machine learning-based object detection technique. The developed atomic force microscope was able to autonomously perform instrument initialization, surface imaging, and image analysis. Two cameras were employed, and a machine-learning algorithm of region-based convolutional neural networks was implemented, to detect and recognize objects of interest and to perform self-calibration, alignment, and operation of each part of the instrument, as well as the analysis of obtained images. Our machine learning-based approach could be generalized to apply to various types of scanning probe microscopes and other scientific instruments.
Short-term load forecasting based on feature mining and deep learning of big data of user electricity consumption
Authors: Wen Ming , Yu Zongchao , Li Wenying , Luo Shuchen , Zhong Yuan , Changqing Chen
Published: December 2023

This study proposes a short-term load prediction method of a bidirectional long short-term memory network based on feature mining of the power consumption big data in combination with the attention mechanism (AT) of Bayesian optimization to address the problems that a considerable amount of feature factors exist and the feature relationship is obscured in the historical power consumption big data. The method comprehensively considers the global features of the power consumption data in space and the local features in time. First, the Cen-CK-means clustering method is used to cluster the electricity consumption data of users, and the statistical, combination, and time category characteristics are extracted according to the meteorological factors related to load over multiple time scales. Second, the Bayesian and bidirectional long and short memory networks are combined to extract the temporal and spatial characteristics of the load data itself. Meanwhile, the AT is introduced to automatically assign the corresponding weights to the hidden layer state of the bidirectional long and short memory. This task is carried out to distinguish the importance of the different time load series, which can effectively reduce the loss of historical information and highlight information about key historical time points. Finally, taking the first type of load as an example, compared with the SVP, RBPNN, BiLSTM, and BO-BiLSTM algorithms, the MAPE index is reduced by 1.05%, 1.75%, 0.52%, and 0.26%, respectively. RMSE decreased by 186.61, 154.93, 91.88, and 15.76 MW, respectively, while R2 increased by 0.04, 0.07, 0.03, and 0.03, respectively. In the one-week forecast time, MAPE index decreased by 1.97%, 2.44%, 1.21%, and 0.6%, respectively; RMSE decreased by 271.18, 305.7, 183.13, and 97.91 MW, respectively; and R2 increased by 0.12, 0.08, 0.04, and 0.03, respectively.
Aged-beef quality and fatty acid profile of subcutaneous fat from Nellore and Nellore × Angus crossbred young bulls finished in the feedlot with a high-lipid diet
Authors: Rodrigues Barbara Martins , Alvarenga Ramon Costa , Lanna Dante Pazzanese Duarte , Oliveira Afonso de Liguori , Ceribeli Caroline , Correia Banny Silva Barbosa , Colnago Luiz Alberto , Cardoso Daniel Rodrigues , Souza Fernando Antônio de , Lopes Leandro Sâmia
Published: December 2023

Context Although beef consumption has been linked to increased blood cholesterol, it has positive impacts on human health and provides essential nutrients of high biological value. Aims This study investigated the effects of aging time on beef quality, the chemical composition of the Longissimus thoracis (LT) muscle, and the metabolite and fatty acid profile of the subcutaneous fat from young bulls finished in feedlot with a high-lipid diet. Methods Fifty young bulls were divided into groups following their breed composition, Nellore (n = 25) and Angus × Nellore crossbred (n = 25), and randomly assigned into four pens. The feedlot phase consisted of 105 days of feed, and the diet (80% concentrate) was formulated to meet or safely exceed the requirements of beef cattle to achieve an average daily gain of 1.6 kg/day. After slaughter, meat samples were collected between the 11th and 13th ribs 24 h postmortem. Steaks were aged for 1, 14, 28, and 42 days. Key results No differences were observed for total weight loss, drip loss, and cooking loss between the genetic groups (P > 0.05). An increase in lipid oxidation was observed for TBARS in the LT beef and subcutaneous fat (P < 0.01). Shear force was influenced by breed and aging time (P < 0.01). There was a significant interaction between aging time and the parameters L* a*, b* c*, and h* (P < 0.01). The crossbred animals had greater (P < 0.01) concentrations of collagen, and Nellore had greater (P < 0.01) concentration of moisture in their LT beef. In total, 33 metabolites were identified in beef extract, and differences were observed in beef from both groups. Nellore animals had higher concentrations of polyunsaturated fatty acids and conjugated linoleic acid. Conclusions The shear force, collagen concentration, and moisture were affected by breeds, while the aging time affected lipid oxidation, shear force, and colour parameters. Different breeds and a high-lipid diet modified the metabolite profile of meat and the profile of subcutaneous fat. Implications These findings suggest that genetic manipulation could potentially be used to improve beef quality.
Black soldier fly larvae (Hermetica illucens) as a sustainable source of nutritive and bioactive compounds, and their consumption challenges
Authors: Macwan Sonu , S. P. de Souza Thaiza , Dunshea Frank R. , DiGiacomo Kristy , Suleria Hafiz A. R.
Published: December 2023

The use of insects as a sustainable source of animal-based food and in the human diet is increasing. Special attention has been given to black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) because this insect can consume organic waste and convert organic matter into high-quality nutrients that can be used for animal feed. In addition, BSFL rapidly reproduce, can convert large volumes of biomass, can be fed with a variety of organic material, and present a high feed conversion rate. Recent studies have also indicated that BSFL have a lower environmental impact than has livestock production, because they use less water and land mass, although life-cycle assessment analysis is required confirm this. Moreover, this insect is a rich source of protein, lipids, and minerals, and may have beneficial medicinal effects due to the presence of bioactive compounds. However, BSFL as well as any other insect species, present some challenges regarding their low consumer acceptance and limited information related to their food safety. Therefore, this review aims to collect information from the current literature regarding aspects related to rearing conditions and characteristics of BSFL as a sustainable source of nutrients. In addition, it will summarise the nutritional profile, the main bioactive compounds, and the challenges with human consumption of BSFL.
Excision pathways for keratinocyte cancers diagnosed by teledermatology: a retrospective review
Authors: Tirado-Perez J. P. , Oakley A. , Gansel R.
Published: December 2023

Introduction The New Zealand population has one of the highest incidences of skin cancer in the world. Hospital waiting lists for surgical excision of keratinocytic skin cancers (basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma) are lengthy, and increasingly, excisions are undertaken in primary care. Teledermatology, in response to general practitioners’ electronic referrals (e-referrals), can improve clinical communication between general practitioners and dermatologists. Aim The aim of this study was to evaluate an excision pathway for keratinocytic cancers diagnosed by teledermatology. Methods A retrospective observational descriptive review of a 3-month cohort of primary care e-referrals was undertaken. Results Three hundred and fifty eight suspected keratinocytic cancers (KCs) were diagnosed by teledermatology; histology reports confirmed KC in 201 of 267 excisions (75%). The majority (77.2%) were excised by general practitioners an average of 25 days after the dermatologist’s recommendation. The rest were excised by plastic surgeons in private (3.4%) or at a public hospital (19.5%) after an average of 40 or 134 days, respectively. Discussion E-referral pathways are now widely implemented. However, the ideal workflow for skin cancer management is unknown. We have demonstrated in New Zealand that surgery can be undertaken in primary care within a month of a teledermatology diagnosis and excision recommendation. Conclusion This study reports prompt excision of KCs by general practitioners after an e-referral and a teledermatology response.
LEF-YOLO: a lightweight method for intelligent detection of four extreme wildfires based on the YOLO framework
Authors: Li Jianwei , Tang Huan , Li Xingdong , Dou Hongqiang , Li Ru
Published: December 2023

Background Extreme wildfires pose a serious threat to forest vegetation and human life because they spread more rapidly and are more intense than conventional wildfires. Detecting extreme wildfires is challenging due to their visual similarities to traditional fires, and existing models primarily detect the presence or absence of fires without focusing on distinguishing extreme wildfires and providing warnings. Aims To test a system for real time detection of four extreme wildfires. Methods We proposed a novel lightweight model, called LEF-YOLO, based on the YOLOv5 framework. To make the model lightweight, we introduce the bottleneck structure of MobileNetv3 and use depthwise separable convolution instead of conventional convolution. To improve the model’s detection accuracy, we apply a multiscale feature fusion strategy and use a Coordinate Attention and Spatial Pyramid Pooling-Fast block to enhance feature extraction. Key results The LEF-YOLO model outperformed the comparison model on the extreme wildfire dataset we constructed, with our model having excellent performance of 2.7 GFLOPs, 61 FPS and 87.9% mAP. Conclusions The detection speed and accuracy of LEF-YOLO can be utilised for the real-time detection of four extreme wildfires in forest fire scenes. Implications The system can facilitate fire control decision-making and foster the intersection between fire science and computer science.
The impact of wild boars on the temporal resource utilisation of silver pheasants in South China
Authors: Liu Wei , Song Xinhang , Wang Ruge , Shuai Lingying , Xiao Shuping , Bu Yanzhen
Published: December 2023

Context Increased populations of wild boar (Sus scrofa) in many ecosystems have raised concern regarding the impacts of this species on ecosystems and biodiversity. The relationship between other wildlife and wild boars is not yet fully understood, due to a lack of studies on whether and how other wildlife avoid wild boar interference. Aims This study aimed to investigate the impact of wild boars on the temporal resource utilisation of silver pheasants (Lophura nycthemera). Methods Eighteen infrared camera stations were deployed during the survey period of May 2020 to April 2022. We utilised avoidance–attraction ratios for evaluating the temporal interaction between silver pheasants and wild boars. We also used a kernel density for measuring their daily activity patterns and interspecific overlap. We simultaneously analysed the impact of human activities on silver pheasants as the reference basis for evaluating the degree of interference by wild boars. Key results The total survey effort was 1620 camera days, resulting in a total of 3451 independent detections. The silver pheasants showcased avoidance of both wild boars and human activities (avoidance–attraction ratios were both significantly greater than 1; P < 0.05). The highest degree of temporal overlap was observed between silver pheasants and human activities (Δ = 0.711), followed by wild boars (Δ = 0.615). They both depicted a significant difference in temporal ecological niche differentiation (P < 0.05). Conclusions Our results indicated that wild boars had a significant impact on the temporal resource utilisation of silver pheasants. The presence of wild boars significantly prolonged the recurrent reappearance time of silver pheasants in the same location. To avoid potential interference from wild boars, silver pheasants maximised activity frequencies during low activity periods of wild boars. Implications This study provides useful information for understanding the relationship between wild boars and other wildlife that inhabited the same areas. Future research will need to investigate both individual and combined impacts of wild boars and human activities on other wildlife.
Listerin promotes cGAS protein degradation through the ESCRT pathway to negatively regulate cGAS-mediated immune response
Authors: Qin Fei , Cai Baoshan , Cao Runyu , Bai Xuemei , Yuan Jiahua , Zhang Yuling , Liu Yaxing , Chen Tian , Liu Feng , Sun Wanwei , Zheng Yi , Qi Xiaopeng , Zhao Wei , Liu Bingyu , Gao Chengjiang
Published: December 2023

The enzyme cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) is a key sensor for detecting misplaced double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) of genomic, mitochondrial, and microbial origin. It synthesizes 2′3′-cGAMP, which in turn activates the stimulator of interferon genes pathway, leading to the initiation of innate immune responses. Here, we identified Listerin as a negative regulator of cGAS-mediated innate immune response. We found that Listerin interacts with cGAS on endosomes and promotes its K63-linked ubiquitination through recruitment of the E3 ligase TRIM27. The polyubiquitinated cGAS is then recognized by the endosomal sorting complexes required for transport machinery and sorted into endosomes for degradation. Listerin deficiency enhances the innate antiviral response to herpes simplex virus 1 infection. Genetic deletion of Listerin also deteriorates the neuroinflammation and the ALS disease progress in an ALS mice model; overexpression of Listerin can robustly ameliorate disease progression in ALS mice. Thus, our work uncovers a mechanism for cGAS regulation and suggests that Listerin may be a promising therapeutic target for ALS disease.
SERS analysis of cancer cell-secreted purines reveals a unique paracrine crosstalk in MTAP-deficient tumors
Authors: Valera Pablo S. , Plou Javier , García Isabel , Astobiza Ianire , Viera Cristina , M. Aransay Ana , Martin José E. , Sasselli Ivan R. , Carracedo Arkaitz , Liz-Marzán Luis M.
Published: December 2023

The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a dynamic pseudoorgan that shapes the development and progression of cancers. It is a complex ecosystem shaped by interactions between tumor and stromal cells. Although the traditional focus has been on the paracrine communication mediated by protein messengers, recent attention has turned to the metabolic secretome in tumors. Metabolic enzymes, together with exchanged substrates and products, have emerged as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets. However, traditional techniques for profiling secreted metabolites in complex cellular contexts are limited. Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) has emerged as a promising alternative due to its nontargeted nature and simplicity of operation. Although SERS has demonstrated its potential for detecting metabolites in biological settings, its application in deciphering metabolic interactions within multicellular systems like the TME remains underexplored. In this study, we introduce a SERS-based strategy to investigate the secreted purine metabolites of tumor cells lacking methylthioadenosine phosphorylase (MTAP), a common genetic event associated with poor prognosis in various cancers. Our SERS analysis reveals that MTAP-deficient cancer cells selectively produce methylthioadenosine (MTA), which is taken up and metabolized by fibroblasts. Fibroblasts exposed to MTA exhibit: i) molecular reprogramming compatible with cancer aggressiveness, ii) a significant production of purine derivatives that could be readily recycled by cancer cells, and iii) the capacity to secrete purine derivatives that induce macrophage polarization. Our study supports the potential of SERS for cancer metabolism research and reveals an unprecedented paracrine crosstalk that explains TME reprogramming in MTAP-deleted cancers.
How a natural antibiotic uses oxidative stress to kill oxidant-resistant bacteria
Authors: Gupta Anshika , Imlay James A.
Published: December 2023

Natural products that possess antibiotic and antitumor qualities are often suspected of working through oxidative mechanisms. In this study, two quinone-based small molecules were compared. Menadione, a classic redox-cycling compound, was confirmed to generate high levels of reactive oxygen species inside
Escherichia coli
. It inactivated iron-cofactored enzymes and blocked growth. However, despite the substantial levels of oxidants that it produced, it was unable to generate significant DNA damage and was not lethal. Streptonigrin, in contrast, was poorer at redox cycling and did not inactivate enzymes or block growth; however, even in low doses, it damaged DNA and killed cells. Its activity required iron and oxygen, and in vitro experiments indicated that its quinone moiety transferred electrons through the adjacent iron atom to oxygen. Additionally, in vitro experiments revealed that streptonigrin was able to damage DNA without inhibition by catalase, indicating that hydrogen peroxide was not involved. We infer that streptonigrin can reduce bound oxygen directly to a ferryl species, which then oxidizes the adjacent DNA, without release of superoxide or hydrogen peroxide intermediates. This scheme allows streptonigrin to kill a bacterial cell without interference by scavenging enzymes. Moreover, its minimal redox-cycling behavior avoids alerting either the OxyR or the SoxRS systems, which otherwise would block killing. This example highlights qualities that may be important in the design of oxidative drugs. These results also cast doubt on proposals that bacteria can be killed by stressors that merely stimulate intracellular O
2
−
and H
2
O
2
formation.
In situ production and secretion of proteins endow therapeutic benefit against psoriasiform dermatitis and melanoma
Authors: Cheng Qiang , Farbiak Lukas , Vaidya Amogh , Guerrero Erick , Lee Eunice E. , Rose Elysha K. , Wang Xu , Robinson Joshua , Lee Sang M. , Wei Tuo , Miller William E. , Alvarez Benedicto Ester , Lian Xizhen , Wang Richard C. , Siegwart Daniel J.
Published: December 2023

Genetic medicines have the potential to treat various diseases; however, certain ailments including inflammatory diseases and cancer would benefit from control over extracellular localization of therapeutic proteins. A critical gap therefore remains the need to develop and incorporate methodologies that allow for posttranslational control over expression dynamics, localization, and stability of nucleic acid–generated protein therapeutics. To address this, we explored how the body’s endogenous machinery controls protein localization through signal peptides (SPs), including how these motifs could be incorporated modularly into therapeutics. SPs serve as a virtual zip code for mRNA transcripts that direct the cell where to send completed proteins within the cell and the body. Utilizing this signaling biology, we incorporated secretory SP sequences upstream of mRNA transcripts coding for reporter, natural, and therapeutic proteins to induce secretion of the proteins into systemic circulation. SP sequences generated secretion of various engineered proteins into the bloodstream following intravenous, intramuscular, and subcutaneous SP mRNA delivery by lipid, polymer, and ionizable phospholipid delivery carriers. SP-engineered etanercept/TNF-α inhibitor proteins demonstrated therapeutic efficacy in an imiquimod-induced psoriasis model by reducing hyperkeratosis and inflammation. An SP-engineered anti-PD-L1 construct mediated mRNA encoded proteins with longer serum half-lives that reduced tumor burden and extended survival in MC38 and B16F10 cancer models. The modular nature of SP platform should enable intracellular and extracellular localization control of various functional proteins for diverse therapeutic applications.
Intrinsic circuitry of the rhombicbrain (central nervous system’s intermediate sector) in a mammal
Authors: Swanson Larry W. , Hahn Joel D. , Sporns Olaf
Published: December 2023

The rhombicbrain (rhombencephalon or intermediate sector) is the vertebrate central nervous system part between the forebrain–midbrain (rostral sector) and spinal cord (caudal sector), and it has three main divisions: pons, cerebellum, and medulla. Using a data-driven approach, here we examine intrinsic rhombicbrain (intrarhombicbrain) network architecture that in rat consists of 52,670 possible axonal connections between 230 gray matter regions (115 bilaterally symmetrical pairs). Our analysis indicates that only 8,089 (15.4%) of these connections exist. Multiresolution consensus cluster analysis yields a nested hierarchy model of rhombicbrain subsystems that at the top level are associated with 1) the cerebellum and vestibular nuclei, 2) orofacial–pharyngeal–visceral integration, and 3) auditory connections; the bottom level has 68 clusters, ranging in size from 2 to 11 regions. The model provides a basis for functional hypothesis development and interrogation. More granular network analyses performed on the intrinsic connectivity of individual and combined main rhombicbrain divisions (pons, cerebellum, medulla, pons + cerebellum, and pons + medulla) demonstrate the mutability of network architecture in response to the addition or subtraction of connections. Clear differences between the structure–function network architecture of the rhombicbrain and forebrain–midbrain are discussed, with a stark comparison provided by the subsystem and small-world organization of the cerebellar cortex and cerebral cortex. Future analysis of the connections within and between the forebrain–midbrain and rhombicbrain will provide a model of brain neural network architecture in a mammal.
Promoting the General Welfare of Therapy Rabbits and Guinea Pigs in Animal-Assisted Interventions with Youth
Authors: Anderson Patti
Published: December 2023

This case study focuses on rabbits and guinea pigs for AAI (animal-assisted interventions) sessions with youth due to their popularity as household pets and potential suitability for therapy work.

Rabbits are consistently listed among the top three on the list for most popular pets in the world. Guinea pigs are consistently ranked in the top ten on the list (Bryant, 2023).

Animals play an important role in the lives of children (Jalongo, 2022).

The rabbits and guinea pigs are species that offer an alternative to interacting with dogs, during an AAI session, especially for those children allergic to them, who have had negative experiences or that have cultural concerns.

The responsibility of the practitioner is to primarily ensure the welfare of the rabbit or guinea pig during an AAI session, especially with youth. By following best practices for managing youth interacting with the therapy animals, they are also protected.

The practitioner needs to know the stress signs for rabbits or guinea pigs they are working with and take measures to mitigate those or remove the animal from a negative situation during an AAI Session with Youth. These stress signs and strategies to avoid stress issues will be discussed.

In general, AAI practitioners need to safeguard the environment, establish guidelines for the session and manage unwanted behaviors of participants with positive strategies (Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals [RSPCA], n.d.).

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