bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Model Framework for the Estimation of Animal ‘Suffering’: Its Use in Predicting and Retrospectively Assessing the Impact of Experiments on Animals
Authors: Morton David B.
Published: February 2023

This paper presents and illustrates, with a working example, a hypothesis for the assessment of ongoing severity before and during an experiment that will enable humane endpoints and intervention points to be applied accurately and reproducibly, as well as helping to implement any national legal severity limits in subacute and chronic animal experiments, e.g., as specified by the competent authority. The underlying assumption of the model framework is that the degree of deviation from normality of specified measurable biological criteria will reflect the level of pain, suffering, distress and lasting harm incurred by or during an experiment. The choice of criteria will normally reflect the impact on an animal and have to be chosen by scientists and those caring for the animals. They will usually include measurements of good health such as temperature, body weight, body condition and behaviour, which vary according to the species, husbandry and experimental protocols and, in some species, unusual parameters such as time of the year (e.g., migrating birds). In animal research legislation, endpoints or severity limits may be specified so that individual animals do not suffer unnecessarily or endure severe pain and distress that is long-lasting (Directive 2010/63/EU, Art.15.2). In addition, the overall severity is estimated and classified as part of the harm: benefit licence assessment. I present a mathematical model to analyse the measurement data to determine the degree of harm (or severity) incurred. The results can be used to initiate alleviative treatment if required or if permitted during the course of an experiment. In addition, any animal determined to have breached the severity classification of a procedure can be humanely killed, treated or withdrawn from the experiment. The system incorporates the flexibility to be used in most animal research work by being tailored to the research, the procedures carried out and the species under investigation. The criteria used to score severity can also be used as additional scientific outcome criteria and for an analysis of the scientific integrity of the project.
PolarBearVidID: A Video-Based Re-Identification Benchmark Dataset for Polar Bears
Authors: Zuerl Matthias , Dirauf Richard , Koeferl Franz , Steinlein Nils , Sueskind Jonas , Zanca Dario , Brehm Ingrid , Fersen Lorenzo von , Eskofier Bjoern
Published: February 2023

Automated monitoring systems have become increasingly important for zoological institutions in the study of their animals’ behavior. One crucial processing step for such a system is the re-identification of individuals when using multiple cameras. Deep learning approaches have become the standard methodology for this task. Especially video-based methods promise to achieve a good performance in re-identification, as they can leverage the movement of an animal as an additional feature. This is especially important for applications in zoos, where one has to overcome specific challenges such as changing lighting conditions, occlusions or low image resolutions. However, large amounts of labeled data are needed to train such a deep learning model. We provide an extensively annotated dataset including 13 individual polar bears shown in 1431 sequences, which is an equivalent of 138,363 images. PolarBearVidID is the first video-based re-identification dataset for a non-human species to date. Unlike typical human benchmark re-identification datasets, the polar bears were filmed in a range of unconstrained poses and lighting conditions. Additionally, a video-based re-identification approach is trained and tested on this dataset. The results show that the animals can be identified with a rank-1 accuracy of 96.6%. We thereby show that the movement of individual animals is a characteristic feature and it can be utilized for re-identification.
Linking Beekeepers’ and Farmers’ Preferences towards Pollination Services in Greek Kiwi Systems
Authors: Abou Nader Elie , Kleftodimos Georgios , Kyrgiakos Leonidas Sotirios , Kleisiari Christina , Gallai Nicola , Darwich Salem , Berchoux Tristan , Vlontzos George , Belhouchette Hatem
Published: February 2023

The kiwi is a highly insect-pollinated dependent crop and is the cornerstone of the Greek agricultural sector, rendering the country as the fourth biggest kiwi producer worldwide, with an expected increase in national production the following years. This extensive transformation of the Greek arable land to Kiwi monocultures in combination with a worldwide shortage of pollination services due to the wild pollinators’ decline raises questions for the provision of pollination services, and consequently, for the sustainability of the sector. In many countries, this shortage of pollination services has been addressed by the installation of pollination services markets, such as those in the USA and France. Therefore, this study tries to identify the barriers towards the implementation of a pollination services market in Greek kiwi production systems by conducting two separate quantitative surveys, one for beekeepers and one for kiwi producers. The findings showed a strong basis for further collaboration between the two stakeholders, as both of them acknowledge the importance of pollination services. Moreover, the farmers’ willingness to pay and the beekeepers’ willingness to receive of the beekeepers regarding the renting of their hives for pollination services were examined.
Integrated Single-Trait and Multi-Trait GWASs Reveal the Genetic Architecture of Internal Organ Weight in Pigs
Authors: Li Xuehua , Wu Jie , Zhuang Zhanwei , Ye Yong , Zhou Shenping , Qiu Yibin , Ruan Donglin , Wang Shiyuan , Yang Jie , Wu Zhenfang , Cai Gengyuan , Zheng Enqin
Published: February 2023

Internal organ weight is an essential indicator of growth status as it reflects the level of growth and development in pigs. However, the associated genetic architecture has not been well explored because phenotypes are difficult to obtain. Herein, we performed single-trait and multi-trait genome-wide association studies (GWASs) to map the genetic markers and genes associated with six internal organ weight traits (including heart weight, liver weight, spleen weight, lung weight, kidney weight, and stomach weight) in 1518 three-way crossbred commercial pigs. In summation, single-trait GWASs identified a total of 24 significant single- nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and 5 promising candidate genes, namely, TPK1, POU6F2, PBX3, UNC5C, and BMPR1B, as being associated with the six internal organ weight traits analyzed. Multi-trait GWAS identified four SNPs with polymorphisms localized on the APK1, ANO6, and UNC5C genes and improved the statistical efficacy of single-trait GWASs. Furthermore, our study was the first to use GWASs to identify SNPs associated with stomach weight in pigs. In conclusion, our exploration of the genetic architecture of internal organ weights helps us better understand growth traits, and the key SNPs identified could play a potential role in animal breeding programs.
The Impact of Biotechnologically Produced Lactobionic Acid in the Diet of Lactating Dairy Cows on Their Performance and Quality Traits of Milk
Authors: Ruska Diana , Radenkovs Vitalijs , Juhnevica-Radenkova Karina , Rubene Daina , Ciprovica Inga , Zagorska Jelena
Published: February 2023

Dairy processing is one of the most polluting sectors of the food industry as it causes water pollution. Given considerable whey quantities obtained via traditional cheese and curd production methods, manufacturers worldwide are encountering challenges for its rational use. However, with the advancement in biotechnology, the sustainability of whey management can be fostered by applying microbial cultures for the bioconversion of whey components such as lactose to functional molecules. The present work was undertaken to demonstrate the potential utilization of whey for producing a fraction rich in lactobionic acid (Lba), which was further used in the dietary treatment of lactating dairy cows. The analysis utilizing high-performance liquid chromatography with refractive index (HPLC-RID) detection confirmed the abundance of Lba in biotechnologically processed whey, corresponding to 11.3 g L−1. The basic diet of two dairy cow groups involving nine animals, Holstein Black and White or Red breeds in each, was supplemented either with 1.0 kg sugar beet molasses (Group A) or 5.0 kg of the liquid fraction containing 56.5 g Lba (Group B). Overall, the use of Lba in the diet of dairy cows during the lactation period equal to molasses affected cows’ performances and quality traits, especially fat composition. The observed values of urea content revealed that animals of Group B and, to a lesser extent, Group A received a sufficient amount of proteins, as the amount of urea in the milk decreased by 21.7% and 35.1%, respectively. After six months of the feeding trial, a significantly higher concentration of essential amino acids (AAs), i.e., isoleucine and valine, was observed in Group B. The percentage increase corresponded to 5.8% and 3.3%, respectively. A similar trend of increase was found for branched-chain AAs, indicating an increase of 2.4% compared with the initial value. Overall, the content of fatty acids (FAs) in milk samples was affected by feeding. Without reference to the decrease in individual FAs, the higher values of monounsaturated FAs (MUFAs) were achieved via the supplementation of lactating cows’ diets with molasses. In contrast, the dietary inclusion of Lba in the diet promoted an increase in saturated FA (SFA) and polyunsaturated FA (PUFA) content in the milk after six months of the feeding trial.
The Effect of Exogenous Amylase Supplementation on the Nutritional Value of Pea (Pisum sativum L.) for Broiler Chickens
Authors: Perz Katarzyna , Kaczmarek Sebastian Andrzej , Nowaczewski Sebastian , Cowieson Aaron Joell , Hejdysz Marcin
Published: February 2023

The present study aimed to investigate whether the exogenous addition of amylase enhances the nutritional value of pea seeds for broiler chickens. In total, 84 1-day-old male broiler chickens (Ross 308) were used for the experimental study. During the first phase of the experiment (1–16 d), all birds in each treatment were fed with a corn–soybean meal reference diet. After this time, the first treatment (control) was still fed the reference diet. In the second and third treatment, 50% of the reference diet was replaced with 50% pea seeds. In addition, the third treatment was supplemented with exogenous amylase. Animal excreta were collected on 21 d and 22 d of the experiment. The birds were sacrificed at the end of the experiment (23 d), and samples of ileum content were collected. The experimental results showed that the exogenous addition of amylase significantly improved (p < 0.05) the apparent ileal digestibility (AID) of the crude protein (CP), starch, and dry matter (DM) of pea. In addition, an improvement in the AID of essential amino acids in pea seeds (except Phe) was observed. The trend in the AMEN values was also noted (p = 0.076). It can be concluded that supplementation with exogenous amylase improves the nutritional value of pea seeds in broiler chicken nutrition.
In Vitro Evaluation of Brown Seaweed Laminaria spp. as a Source of Antibacterial and Prebiotic Extracts That Could Modulate the Gastrointestinal Microbiota of Weaned Pigs
Authors: Venardou Brigkita , O’Doherty John V. , Garcia-Vaquero Marco , Kiely Claire , Rajauria Gaurav , McDonnell Mary J. , Ryan Marion T. , Sweeney Torres
Published: February 2023

Laminaria spp. and their extracts have preventative potential as dietary supplements during weaning in pigs. The first objective of this study was to evaluate increasing concentrations of four whole seaweed biomass samples from two different Laminaria species harvested in two different months in a weaned pig faecal batch fermentation assay. Particularly, February and November whole seaweed biomass samples of L. hyperborea (LHWB-F and LHWB-N) and L. digitata (LDWB-F and LDWB-N) were used. In the next part of the study, the increasing concentrations of four extracts produced from L. hyperborea (LHE1–4) and L. digitata (LDE1–4) were evaluated in individual pure-culture growth assays using a panel of beneficial and pathogenic bacterial strains (second objective). The LHE1–4 and LDE1–4 were obtained using different combinations of temperature, incubation time and volume of solvent within a hydrothermal-assisted extraction methodology (E1–4). In the batch fermentation assay, the L. hyperborea biomass samples, LHWB-F and LHWB-N, lowered Bifidobacterium spp. counts compared to the L. digitata biomass samples, LDWB-F and LDWB-N (p < 0.05). LHWB-F and LDWB-N reduced Enterobacteriaceae counts (p < 0.05). LHWB-F and LDWB-F were selected as the most and least promising sources of antibacterial extracts from which to produce LHE1–4 and LDE1–4. In the pure-culture growth assays, E1- and E4-produced extracts were predominantly associated with antibacterial and bifidogenic activities, respectively. LHE1 reduced both Salmonella Typhimurium and Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli with LDE1 having a similar effect on both of these pathogenic strains, albeit to a lesser extent (p < 0.05). Both LHE1 and LDE1 reduced B. thermophilum counts (p < 0.05). LDE4 exhibited strong bifidogenic activity (p < 0.05), whereas LHE4 increased Bifidobacterium thermophilum and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum counts (p < 0.05). In conclusion, antibacterial and bifidogenic extracts of Laminaria spp. were identified in vitro with the potential to alleviate gastrointestinal dysbiosis in newly weaned pigs.
The Influence of Community Feeders and Commercial Food Outlets on the Spatial Distribution of Free-Roaming Dogs—A Photographic Capture and Recapture Study
Authors: de Melo Saulo Nascimento , da Silva Eduardo Sérgio , Ribeiro Renata Aparecida Nascimento , Soares Paulo Henrique Araújo , Cunha Anna Karolyna Rodrigues , de Souza Gonçalves Cláudia Maria , Melo Flávia Daniela Santos , Horta Marco Aurélio Pereira , Teixeira-Neto Rafael Gonçalves , Belo Vinícius Silva
Published: February 2023

Understanding the distribution of dogs in the environment is relevant for establishing human and animal health actions. In the present study, we analyzed the influence of community feeders and commercial food outlets on the spatial distribution of free-roaming dogs in an urban area of a municipality in Southeast Brazil. The dogs were identified via photographic capture and recapture performed over five sampling efforts. The spatial densities of dogs were determined using the Kernel method. Spatial correlations between the distribution of free-roaming dogs and the locations of community feeders and commercial food outlets were analyzed using the K function. During the study, 1207 captures/recaptures were performed encompassing 554 dogs, the majority (62.6%) of which were males. Agglomerations of male and female dogs were observed in the areas where food was present. Positive spatial autocorrelations were detected between the distribution of dogs and food sources. The median distances between dogs and community feeders or commercial food outlets were 1.2 and 1.4 km, respectively, and the difference between these two was statistically significant. The presence of community feeders and food outlets demonstrates the influence of human activity, on the spatial distribution of free-roaming dogs. These results will be useful for developing strategies aimed at the improvement of animal welfare and the prevention of zoonoses.
The Role of Environmental Enrichment and Back Fat Depth in the Intensity of Aggressive Behavior Performed by Sows during the Establishment of the Dominance Hierarchy
Authors: Galli Maria Costanza , Lagoda Martyna E. , Gottardo Flaviana , Contiero Barbara , Boyle Laura A.
Published: February 2023

For sows introduced into new groups, the aggressive behavior associated with establishing a social hierarchy represents a period of severe stress. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of providing sows with an improved pen environment (straw in racks and ropes) on aggressive behavior after mixing and to understand the role played by sow back fat thickness and parity order. At 29 d post-service, sows were mixed into IMPROVED or CONTROL pens with individual feeding stalls (6 groups/treatment, 20 sows/group). Aggressive behavior was recorded for 2 h at mixing (T0) and 24 h (T1) and 3 weeks post-mixing (T21). Overall, the sows in the CONTROL pens performed more fighting behavior compared to the IMPROVED sows (p < 0.001). This difference was significant only at T21 (p < 0.001). Additionally, the sows in the CONTROL pens generally initiated more aggressive behaviors than the sows in the IMPROVED pens (p = 0.02). The sows with a low back fat thickness initiated more aggressive behaviors, but parity had no significant effect on any of the aggressive behaviors. These results indicate a beneficial effect of improvements to the pen environment on the aggression performed by group-housed sows between the time of mixing and three weeks later. The effect was reduced on the day of mixing, which is in accordance with the necessity for sows to employ aggression to establish the dominance hierarchy.
Diverticular Disease and Rifaximin: An Evidence-Based Review
Authors: Piccin Anna , Gulotta Marco , di Bella Stefano , Martingano Paola , Crocè Lory Saveria , Giuffrè Mauro
Published: February 2023

There have been considerable advances in the treatment of diverticular disease in recent years. Antibiotics are frequently used to treat symptoms and prevent complications. Rifaximin, a non-absorbable antibiotic, is a common therapeutic choice for symptomatic diverticular disease in various countries, including Italy. Because of its low systemic absorption and high concentration in stools, it is an excellent medicine for targeting the gastrointestinal tract, where it has a beneficial effect in addition to its antibacterial properties. Current evidence shows that cyclical rifaximin usage in conjunction with a high-fiber diet is safe and effective for treating symptomatic uncomplicated diverticular disease, while the cost-effectiveness of long-term treatment is unknown. The use of rifaximin to prevent recurrent diverticulitis is promising, but further studies are needed to confirm its therapeutic benefit. Unfortunately, there is no available evidence on the efficacy of rifaximin treatment for acute uncomplicated diverticulitis.
ESBL-Positive Enterobacteriaceae from Dogs of Santiago and Boa Vista Islands, Cape Verde: A Public Health Concern
Authors: Matos Alice , Cunha Eva , Baptista Lara , Tavares Luís , Oliveira Manuela
Published: February 2023

Antimicrobial resistance is a public health threat with an increasing expression in low- and middle-income countries such as Cape Verde. In this country, there is an overpopulation of dogs, which may facilitate the spread of resistant bacteria, including extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Enterobacteriaceae. To clarify the role of dogs as reservoirs for the dissemination of this bacterial group, 100 rectal swab samples were collected from confined (n = 50) and non-confined (n = 50) dogs in Santiago and Boa Vista Islands, Cape Verde. These were analyzed using conventional bacteriological techniques for the detection of ESBL-producing Enterobacteriaceae and characterization of their pathogenic and resistance profiles. Twenty-nine samples displayed ESBL-positive bacteria, from which 48 ESBL-producing isolates were obtained and mostly identified as Escherichia coli. Multiple antimicrobial resistance indexes ranged from 0.18 to 0.70 and half of the isolates were classified as multidrug-resistant. Isolates were capable of producing relevant virulence factors, including biofilm, showing virulence indexes between 0.29 and 0.71. As such, dogs in Cape Verde may act as reservoirs of resistant bacteria, including pathogenic and zoonotic species, representing a public health concern. Although further investigation is needed, this study proposes the periodical analysis of dogs’ fecal samples to monitor resistance dissemination in the country, in a One-Health perspective.
Feasibility of Downscaling Satellite-Based Precipitation Estimates Using Soil Moisture Derived from Land Surface Temperature
Authors: Strehz Alexander , Brombacher Joost , Degen Jelle , Einfalt Thomas
Published: February 2023

For many areas, satellite-based precipitation products or reanalysis model data represent the only available precipitation information. Unfortunately, the resolution of these datasets is generally too coarse for many applications. A very promising downscaling approach is to use soil moisture due to its clear physical connection to precipitation. We investigate the feasibility of using soil moisture derived from land surface temperature in this context. These data are more widely available in the required resolution compared to other soil moisture data. Rain gauge-adjusted radar data from Namoi serves as a spatial reference dataset for two objectives: to identify the most suitable globally available precipitation dataset and to explore the precipitation information contained in the soil moisture data. The results show that these soil moisture data cannot be used to downscale satellite-based precipitation data to a high resolution because of cloud cover interference. Therefore, the Integrated Multi-satellitE Retrievals for GPM (IMERG) late data represents the best precipitation dataset for many areas in Australia that require timely precipitation information, according to this study.
Molecular Kinetic Simulations of Transient and Steady Wave Propagation into a Planet’s Exosphere
Authors: Tian Lucia , Johnson Robert E. , Tucker Orenthal J. , Woodson Adam K. , Williamson Hayley N. , Mogan Shane R. Carberry
Published: February 2023

The vertical propagation of wave energy into a planet’s exosphere, a process that affects atmospheric evolution, is calculated here using 1D molecular kinetic simulations. Effects sensitive to molecular interactions are examined by comparing simulation results to solutions of linear fluid models for steady wave activity using parameters associated with Mars’ upper atmosphere. In addition to correctly describing the wave behavior in the exobase region, these simulations directly yield nonlinear effects such as atmospheric heating. They also readily include the transient behavior due to the onset and decay of waves propagating into the rarefied region of a planet’s atmosphere. This is a first step in understanding the effects of variable wave activity in the region where the atmosphere evolves from collisional to collisionless.
Simulation of Electron Density Disturbance in the Lower Ionosphere Caused by Thundercloud Electrostatic Fields
Authors: Yang Xubo , Liu Yi , Lin Youzhi , Zhou Chen , Zhao Zhengyu
Published: February 2023

In this study, we simulated the electron density disturbance at night in the bottom of the ionosphere caused by the electrostatic field in a thundercloud. The simulation was conducted using the charge of the thundercloud as the source, by incorporating a more up-to-date conductivity profile, and using the ion chemistry model for the lower ionosphere. The results revealed that a thundercloud charge of 30–100 C can cause a disturbance in the electron density in the lower ionosphere, decreasing to 40% of the original value or increasing to 160% of the original value. The electron density disturbance occurs mainly below an altitude of 80 km, and its peak is located at an altitude of 70 km, with a regional horizontal radius of about 50–75 km. The simulation results of this study improve the theory of Salem et al and extend the original one-dimensional model to three-dimensional space.
Quantifying the Impact of Canopy Structural Characteristics on Soil Temperature Variations in Different Bamboo Communities
Authors: Ma Tingting , Nan Xinge , Wu Renwu , Yan Hai , Wu Na , She Juan , Bao Zhiyi
Published: February 2023

Soil temperature plays an important role in soil respiration, which is related to the atmospheric carbon cycle. In addition to its own physical and chemical properties, soil temperature is also influenced by external environmental factors, including plants. Therefore, it is relevant to explore the relationship between plant characteristics and soil temperature. This study was conducted in Hangzhou, China. The influence of canopy structural characteristics of bamboo communities on soil temperature was investigated in detail by means of field measurements. In summer, the canopy structure of bamboo communities reduced the soil temperature by up to 3.0–3.8 °C, 2.4–3.4 °C, and 2.3–3.0 °C at 5 cm, 10 cm, and 20 cm, respectively. In winter, the canopy structure of bamboo communities increased soil temperature by up to 0.1–0.4 °C, 0.1–0.6 °C, and 0.2–0.7 °C at 5 cm, 10 cm, and 20 cm, respectively. The leaf area index and canopy cover significantly affected the soil temperature, while the effect of the sky view factor was minimal compared to other factors. We also discovered that soil temperatures at different depths interact and are influenced by the air temperature. These findings provide a more reasonable bamboo canopy plan to improve the urban environment effectively.
Optimal Water Addition in Emulsion Diesel Fuel Using Machine Learning and Sea-Horse Optimizer to Minimize Exhaust Pollutants from Diesel Engine
Authors: Alahmer Hussein , Alahmer Ali , Alamayreh Malik I. , Alrbai Mohammad , Al-Rbaihat Raed , Al-Manea Ahmed , Alkhazaleh Razan
Published: February 2023

Water-in-diesel (W/D) emulsion fuel is a potentially viable diesel fuel that can simultaneously enhance engine performance and reduce exhaust emissions in a current diesel engine without requiring engine modifications or incurring additional costs. In a consistent manner, the current study examines the impact of adding water, in the range of 5–30% wt. (5% increment) and 2% surfactant of polysorbate 20, on the performance in terms of brake torque (BT) and exhaust emissions of a four-cylinder four-stroke diesel engine. The relationship between independent factors, including water addition and engine speed, and dependent factors, including different exhaust released emissions and BT, was initially generated using machine learning support vector regression (SVR). Subsequently, a robust and modern optimization of the sea-horse optimizer (SHO) was run through the SVR model to find the optimal water addition and engine speed for improving the BT and lowering exhaust emissions. Furthermore, the SVR model was compared to the artificial neural network (ANN) model in terms of R-squared and mean square error (MSE). According to the experimental results, the BT was boosted by 3.34% compared to pure diesel at 5% water addition. The highest reduction in carbon monoxide (CO) and unburned hydrocarbon (UHC) was 9.57% and 15.63%, respectively, at 15% of water addition compared to diesel fuel. The nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions from emulsified fuel were significantly lower than those from pure diesel, with a maximum decrease of 67.14% at 30% water addition. The suggested SVR-SHO model demonstrated superior prediction reliability, with a significant R-Squared of more than 0.98 and a low MSE of less than 0.003. The SHO revealed that adding 15% water to the W/D emulsion fuel at an engine speed of 1848 rpm yielded the optimum BT, CO, UHC, and NOx values of 49.5 N.m, 0.5%, 57 ppm, and 369 ppm, respectively. Finally, these outcomes have important implications for the potential of the SVR-SHO approach to minimize engine exhaust emissions while maximizing engine performance.
Response of Total Column Ozone at High Latitudes to Sudden Stratospheric Warmings
Authors: Hocke Klemens , Sauvageat Eric , Bernet Leonie
Published: February 2023

The total column ozone (TCO) at northern high latitudes is increased over a course of 1–2 months after a major sudden stratospheric warming as a consequence of enhanced ozone eddy transport and diffusive ozone fluxes. We analyzed ground-based measurements of TCO from Oslo, Andøya and Ny Ålesund from 2000 to 2020. During this time interval, 15 major sudden stratospheric warmings (SSWs) occurred. The observed TCO variations are in a good agreement with those of ECMWF Reanalysis v5 (ERA5), showing that TCO from ERA5 is reliable, even during dynamically active periods. ERA5 has the advantage that it has no data gaps during the polar night. We found that TCO was increased by up to 190 DU after the SSW of February 2010, over one month. The composite analysis of the 15 SSWs provided the result that TCO is increased on average by about 50 DU over one month after the central date of the SSW.
Study on Performance and Operation Mechanism of a Separation Equipment for a PWR Steam Generator
Authors: Yang Xuelong , Zhu Chenbing , Zhou Qiwei , Chen Jianchong , Mou Jiegang
Published: February 2023

Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) is adopted to calculate and analyze the performance and separation mechanism of a steam-water separation equipment for a pressurized water reactor (PWR) steam generator. The steam-water two-phase flow is simulated by the Euler two-fluid model, and several representative water droplet diameters are selected among 50 to 400 μm. The influence mechanism of water droplet diameter on the performance is investigated by analyzing the flow parameters such as phase volume fraction, velocity, and turbulent kinetic energy. The results show that the integrated calculation and analysis of the separation equipment can more truly reflect the flow state between the separators, improving the reliability of the performance prediction and mechanism analysis. With the increase in water droplet diameter, the separation efficiency of the separation equipment and each separator gradually increases, the outlet wetness gradually decreases, and the pressure loss first decreases and then stabilizes. When 400 μm is taken as the characteristic value of the actual droplet diameter distribution at the inlet of the separation equipment, the performance prediction is more accurate, the pressure loss of each separator is relatively close, and the pressure loss of the primary separator is less affected by the droplet diameter and smaller than that of the swirl-vane primary separator, which is conducive to achieving a higher circulation ratio (CR). Re-entrainment occurs at the perforations of the primary separator and the outlet of the secondary separator, and the corresponding structure is suggested to be optimized to further improve separation efficiency of the separation equipment.
Intercomparison and Assessment of Stand-Alone and Wavelet-Coupled Machine Learning Models for Simulating Rainfall-Runoff Process in Four Basins of Pothohar Region, Pakistan
Authors: Khan Muhammad Tariq , Shoaib Muhammad , Albano Raffaele , Inam Muhammad Azhar , Salahudin Hamza , Hammad Muhammad , Ahmad Shakil , Ali Muhammad Usman , Hashim Sarfraz , Ullah Muhammad Kaleem
Published: February 2023

The science of hydrological modeling has continuously evolved under the influence of rapid advancements in software and hardware technologies. Starting from simple rational formulae for estimating peak discharge and developing into sophisticated univariate predictive models, accurate conversion of rainfall into runoff and the assessment of inherent uncertainty has been a prime focus for researchers. Therefore, alternative data-driven methods have gained widespread attention in hydrology. Moreover, scientists often couple conventional machine learning models with data pre-processing techniques, i.e., wavelet transformation (WT), to enhance modelling accuracy. In this context, this research work attempts to explore the latent linkage between rainfall and runoff in Pothohar region of Pakistan by developing a novel linkage of five streamline techniques of machine learning, including single decision tree (SDT), decision tree forest (DTF), tree boost (TB), multilayer perceptron (MLP), and gene expression modeling (GEP), with a more sophisticated variant of WT, i.e., maximal overlap discrete wavelet transformation (MODWT), for boundary correction of the transformed components of timeseries data. This study also implements these machine learning models in a stand-alone mode for a more comprehensive comparative analysis of performances. Furthermore, the study uses a combined-basin approach that divides Pothohar region into two basins to compensate for the complex topographic division of the study area. The results indicate that MODWT-based DTF outperformed other stand-alone and hybrid models in terms of modeling accuracy. In the first scenario, considering the Bunha-Kahan River basin, MODWT-DTF yielded the highest NSE (0.86) and the lowest RMSE (220.45 mm) and R2 (0.92 at lag order 3 (Lo3)) when transformed with daubechies4 (db4) at level three. While in the Soan-Haro River basin, MODWT-DTF produced the highest accuracy modeling at lag order 4 (Lo4) (NSE = 0.88, RMSE = 21.72 m3/s, and R2 = 0.91). The highly accurate performance of 3- and 4-days lagged models reflects the temporal consistency in hydrological response of the study area. The comparison of simple and hybrid model performance indicates up to a 55% increase in modeling accuracy due to data pre-processing with wavelet transformation.
Evaluation of GPM and TRMM and Their Capabilities for Capturing Solid and Light Precipitations in the Headwater Basin of the Heihe River
Authors: Liu Jie , Huang Bensheng , Chen Liangxiong , Yang Jingxue , Chen Xiaohong
Published: February 2023

Obtaining accurate precipitation data in mountainous regions is important but challenging. In ungauged areas, remotely sensed precipitation products are useful supplements and alternatives to measured precipitation products. However, their ability to detect solid precipitation and light precipitation in mountain areas is still unclear. The primary objective of this study is to evaluate two satellite precipitation products, Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) and Tropical Precipitation Measuring Mission (TRMM), in the headwaters of an inland river on the northeastern Tibetan Plateau (the Heihe river basin), with a specific focus on their performance regarding light precipitation and solid precipitation. The achieved results reveal that both GPM and TRMM perform poorly over the Heihe river basin, with low Correlation Coefficient value and Critical Success Index value, particularly in winter. Based on the coupled Time-Variant Gain Model-Degree Day Factor Model (TVGM-DDF) initiated in this paper, the GPM is more applicable in terms of running hydrological models. With the aim of detecting solid precipitation, the GPM is more capable of detecting solid precipitation but still unsatisfactory at two stations. In the case of light precipitation, both products underestimate light precipitation. In general, the performance of the two products in the Heihe river basin is not satisfactory and should be enhanced in upcoming explorations. This study provides a strong foundation for choosing alternate precipitation data for related research in the mountain basin.
Adoption Case of IIoT and Machine Learning to Improve Energy Consumption at a Process Manufacturing Firm, under Industry 5.0 Model
Authors: Redchuk Andrés , Walas Mateo Federico , Pascal Guadalupe , Tornillo Julian Eloy
Published: February 2023

Considering the novel concept of Industry 5.0 model, where sustainability is aimed together with integration in the value chain and centrality of people in the production environment, this article focuses on a case where energy efficiency is achieved. The work presents a food industry case where a low-code AI platform was adopted to improve the efficiency and lower environmental footprint impact of its operations. The paper describes the adoption process of the solution integrated with an IIoT architecture that generates data to achieve process optimization. The case shows how a low-code AI platform can ease energy efficiency, considering people in the process, empowering them, and giving a central role in the improvement opportunity. The paper includes a conceptual framework on issues related to Industry 5.0 model, the food industry, IIoT, and machine learning. The adoption case’s relevancy is marked by how the business model looks to democratize artificial intelligence in industrial firms. The proposed model delivers value to ease traditional industries to obtain better operational results and contribute to a better use of resources. Finally, the work intends to go through opportunities that arise around artificial intelligence as a driver for new business and operating models considering the role of people in the process. By empowering industrial engineers with data driven solutions, organizations can ensure that their domain expertise can be applied to data insights to achieve better outcomes.
The Cause and Effect Relationship of Diabetes after Acute Pancreatitis
Authors: Śliwińska-Mossoń Mariola , Bil-Lula Iwona , Marek Grzegorz
Published: February 2023

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is an acute inflammation of the pancreas associated with high morbidity and mortality. Endocrine pancreatic insufficiency secondary to AP has drawn increasing attention in recent years. The aim of this paper is to analyze the available clinical and experimental literature to determine the cause and effect relationship of diabetes type 3c (T3cDM; pancreatogenic diabetes) after acute pancreatitis. The clinico-pathological features and management challenges of pancreatogenic diabetes overlap with other secondary causes of diabetes. A complex pathogenesis involving pancreatic exocrine insufficiency, dysfunction of insulin secretion, and insulin resistance is likely the cause of T3cDM after AP. To obtain an improved understanding of the pathophysiology of diabetes after AP, more research is now needed to understand the risk of complications related to the pancreas and diabetes in these patients.
Lactobacillus plantarum Generate Electricity through Flavin Mononucleotide-Mediated Extracellular Electron Transfer to Upregulate Epithelial Type I Collagen Expression and Thereby Promote Microbial Adhesion to Intestine
Authors: Ganzorig Binderiya , Zayabaatar Enkhbat , Pham Minh Tan , Marito Shinta , Huang Chun-Ming , Lee Yu-Hsiang
Published: February 2023

The mechanism behind how flavin mononucleotide (FMN)-producing bacteria attach to a host intestine remains unclear. In order to address this issue, this study isolated the Gram-positive bacteria Lactobacillus plantarum from Mongolian fermented Airag, named L. plantarum MA. These bacteria were further employed as the model microbes, and their electrogenic properties were first identified by their significant expression of type II NADH-quinone oxidoreductase. This study also demonstrated that the electrical activity of L. plantarum MA can be conducted through flavin mononucleotide (FMN)-based extracellular electron transfer, which is highly dependent on the presence of a carbon source in the medium. Our data show that approximately 15 µM of FMN, one of the key electron donors for the generation of electricity, can be produced from L. plantarum MA, as they were cultured in the presence of lactulose for 24 h. We further demonstrated that the electrical activity of L. plantarum MA can promote microbial adhesion and can thus enhance the colonization effectiveness of Caco-2 cells and mouse cecum. Such enhanced adhesiveness was attributed to the increased expression of type I collagens in the intestinal epithelium after treatment with L. plantarum MA. This study reveals the mechanism behind the electrogenic activity of L. plantarum MA and shows how the bacteria utilize electricity to modulate the protein expression of gut tissue for an enhanced adhesion process.
Facial Skin Microbiome: Aging-Related Changes and Exploratory Functional Associations with Host Genetic Factors, a Pilot Study
Authors: Russo Edda , Di Gloria Leandro , Cerboneschi Matteo , Smeazzetto Serena , Baruzzi Gian Paolo , Romano Francesca , Ramazzotti Matteo , Amedei Amedeo
Published: February 2023

In this exploratory study, we investigate the variation in the facial skin microbiome architecture through aging and their functional association with host genetic factors in a cohort of healthy women, living in the same area and without cutaneous diseases. Notably, facial skin microbiota (SM) samples were collected from a cohort of 15 healthy Caucasian females, firstly divided into three age groups (younger women aged 20–35 years old; middle aged women of 36–52 years old; and older women aged 53–68 years old). Then, the recruited cohort was divided into two groups based on their facial hydration level (dry and normal skin). The facial SM revealed a different composition in the three analyzed aging groups and between normal and dry skins. The middle-aged women also revealed functional variations associated with collagen biosynthesis and oxidative stress damage repair. Otherwise, the association between selected host SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphisms) and the facial SM profile showed significant associations, suggesting a negative correlation with collagen metabolism and ROS damage protection. Finally, the composition and functionality of the facial SM seemed to affect the aging process through the two aging-correlated pathways of host ROS damage repair and collagen metabolism. Our exploratory data could be useful for future studies characterizing the structure, function, and dynamics of the SM in the aging process to design personalized therapeutic agents focusing on potential genomic targets, microbes, and their metabolites.
Estrogens in Adipose Tissue Physiology and Obesity-Related Dysfunction
Authors: Kuryłowicz Alina
Published: February 2023

Menopause-related decline in estrogen levels is accompanied by a change in adipose tissue distribution from a gynoid to an android and an increased prevalence of obesity in women. These unfavorable phenomena can be partially restored by hormone replacement therapy, suggesting a significant role for estrogen in the regulation of adipocytes’ function. Indeed, preclinical studies proved the involvement of these hormones in adipose tissue development, metabolism, and inflammatory activity. However, the relationship between estrogen and obesity is bidirectional. On the one hand-their deficiency leads to excessive fat accumulation and impairs adipocyte function, on the other-adipose tissue of obese individuals is characterized by altered expression of estrogen receptors and key enzymes involved in their synthesis. This narrative review aims to summarize the role of estrogen in adipose tissue development, physiology, and in obesity-related dysfunction. Firstly, the estrogen classification, synthesis, and modes of action are presented. Next, their role in regulating adipogenesis and adipose tissue activity in health and the course of obesity is described. Finally, the potential therapeutic applications of estrogen and its derivates in obesity treatment are discussed.
Recent Advances in Silicon Quantum Dot-Based Fluorescent Biosensors
Authors: Zhang Yanan , Cai Ning , Chan Vincent
Published: February 2023

With the development of nanotechnology, fluorescent silicon nanomaterials have been synthesized and applied in various areas. Among them, silicon quantum dots (SiQDs) are a new class of zero-dimensional nanomaterials with outstanding optical properties, benign biocompatibility, and ultra-small size. In recent years, SiQDs have been gradually utilized for constructing high-performance fluorescent sensors for chemical or biological analytes. Herein, we focus on reviewing recent advances in SiQD-based fluorescent biosensors from a broad perspective and discussing possible future trends. First, the representative progress for synthesizing water-soluble SiQDs in the past decade is systematically summarized. Then, the latest achievement of the design and fabrication of SiQD-based fluorescent biosensors is introduced, with a particular focus on analyte-induced photoluminescence (fluorescence) changes, hybrids of SiQDs with other materials or molecules, and biological ligand-modification methods. Finally, the current challenges and prospects of this field are highlighted.
Protective Effects of Sodium Para-Aminosalicylic Acid on Lead and Cadmium Co-Exposure in SH-SY5Y Cells
Authors: Peng Jian-Chao , Deng Yue , Song Han-Xiao , Fang Yuan-Yuan , Gan Cui-Liu , Lin Jun-Jie , Luo Jing-Jing , Zheng Xiao-Wei , Aschner Michael , Jiang Yue-Ming
Published: February 2023

Background: Combined exposure to lead and cadmium is common in occupational environments. However, the effects of co-exposure to Pb-Cd on neurotoxicity have not been fully clarified. Sodium para-aminosalicylic acid (PAS-Na) has previously been shown to protect neurons from Pb-induced toxicity. This study aimed to investigate the beneficial effect of PAS-Na against co-exposure to Pb-Cd-induced neurodegeneration in SH-SY5Y cells. Methods: The MTT assay was used to detect the effects of Pb and Cd alone, or in combination, on SH-SY5Y cell survival. The effects of Pb and Cd alone or in combination on oxidative stress were assessed by reactive oxygen species (ROS) level. Nrf2, the master switch for antioxidant responses, was detected by immunofluorescence. Protein expression levels of PI3K, Akt, p-Akt, Nrf2 and HO-1 were determined by Western blot analysis. Results: MTT assay results established that the survival rate of SH-SY5Y cells was not significantly affected by exposure to 1 μmol/L lead, 0.25 μmol/L cadmium, and 1-fold Pb-Cd mixture (1 μmol/L Pb + 0.25 μmol/L Cd), while 10-fold Pb-Cd combined exposure (10 μmol/L Pb + 2.5 μmol/L Cd) significantly reduced the survival rate of SH-SY5Y cells. Combined Pb-Cd exposure significantly increased intracellular ROS levels, and N-Acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) treatment in the 10 μmol/L Pb + 2.5 μmol/L Cd group significantly decreased ROS expression levels, attenuating the levels of oxidative stress. Protein expression of PI3K and p-Akt significantly decreased in the 10 μmol/L Pb + 2.5 μmol/L Cd group, while the expression of PI3K and p-Akt protein increased after PAS-Na intervention. Immunofluorescence analysis showed that levels of Nrf2 in the nucleus increased in the 10 μmol/L Pb + 2.5 μmol/L Cd group, along with Nrf2 protein levels, suggesting that Nrf2 was translocated from the cytoplasm into the nucleus upon combined Pb-Cd exposure. In addition, HO-1 protein expression level, a downstream gene product of Nrf2, was increased. In response to NAC intervention, HO-1 protein expression levels significantly decreased. PAS-Na had the same intervention effect as NAC. Conclusion: Combined exposure to Pb-Cd induced oxidative stress and cytotoxicity in SH-SY5Y cells. PAS-Na displayed antagonistic effects on neurodegenerative changes induced by combined Pb-Cd exposure; hence, it may afford a novel treatment modality for exposure to these metals.