bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microbiota and Metabolite Profiles in the Feces of Juvenile Sika Deer (Cervus nippon) from Birth to Weaning
Authors: Mu Ruina , Li Songze , Zhang Yunxi , Li Yuqian , Zhu Yuhang , Zhao Fei , Si Huazhe , Li Zhipeng
Published: January 2024

The gut microbiota establishment in young ruminants has a profound impact on their adult production performance. However, the critical phase for the succession of the gut microbial composition and metabolic profiles of juvenile sika deer still needs to be further investigated. Here, we analyzed the fecal microbiota and metabolites of juvenile sika deer during the birth (D1), transition (D42), and rumination (D70) periods based on 16S rRNA sequencing and gas chromatography–time–of–flight mass spectrometry (GC–TOF–MS). The results showed that the fecal bacteria and metabolites composition were significantly different in D1 compared to D42 and D70, and the number of OTUs and the Shannon index were significantly higher in D70 than in D1 (p < 0.05). The relative abundances of Lactobacillus, Lactococcus, and Lachnoclostridium showed a significant increase in D1 compared to D42 and D70, whereas the relative abundances of Ruminococcaceae UCG-005, Ruminococcaceae UCG-010, Ruminococcaceae UCG-014, Christensenellaceae R-7, and Eubacterium coprostanoligenes group were significantly decreased in D1 compared to D42 and D70 (p < 0.05). The amounts of serine, phenylalanine, aspartic acid, ornithine, citrulline, creatine, isoleucine, galactose, and ribose in the feces were significantly higher in D1 compared to D42 and D70. In contrast, the concentrations of cortexolone, resveratrol, piceatannol, fumaric acid, alpha-ketoglutarate, glycerol, uracil-5-carboxylic acid, and maleic acid were significantly decreased in D1. The enrichment analysis showed that amino acid metabolism and carbohydrate metabolism were significantly changed in D1 compared to D42 and D70. The glycine, serine and threonine metabolism; alanine, aspartate and glutamate metabolism; arginine biosynthesis; glyoxylate and dicarboxylate metabolism; citrate cycle; and pyruvate metabolism were significantly enriched across the three periods (p < 0.05). In conclusion, our results suggested that the birth–transition period is a critical phase for the gut bacterial community and metabolic function shift in juvenile sika deer.
Whole-Genome Sequencing Analyses Reveal the Whip-like Tail Formation, Innate Immune Evolution, and DNA Repair Mechanisms of Eupleurogrammus muticus
Authors: Han Fang-Yuan , Wu Ren-Xie , Miao Ben-Ben , Niu Su-Fang , Wang Qing-Hua , Liang Zhen-Bang
Published: January 2024

Smallhead hairtail (Eupleurogrammus muticus) is an important marine economic fish distributed along the northern Indian Ocean and the northwest Pacific coast; however, little is known about the mechanism of its genetic evolution. This study generated the first genome assembly of E. muticus at the chromosomal level using a combination of PacBio SMRT, Illumina Nova-Seq, and Hi-C technologies. The final assembled genome size was 709.27 Mb, with a contig N50 of 25.07 Mb, GC content of 40.81%, heterozygosity rate of 1.18%, and repetitive sequence rate of 35.43%. E. muticus genome contained 21,949 protein-coding genes (97.92% of the genes were functionally annotated) and 24 chromosomes. There were 143 expansion gene families, 708 contraction gene families, and 4888 positively selected genes in the genome. Based on the comparative genomic analyses, we screened several candidate genes and pathways related to whip-like tail formation, innate immunity, and DNA repair in E. muticus. These findings preliminarily reveal some molecular evolutionary mechanisms of E. muticus at the genomic level and provide important reference genomic data for the genetic studies of other trichiurids.
Comparison of Nucleosome, Ferritin and LDH Levels in Blood with Clinical Response before and after Electrochemotherapy Combined with IL-12 Gene Electrotransfer for the Treatment of Mast Cell Tumours in Dogs
Authors: Vilfan Maša , Lampreht Tratar Urša , Milevoj Nina , Nemec Svete Alenka , Čemažar Maja , Serša Gregor , Tozon Nataša
Published: January 2024

Electrochemotherapy (ECT) in combination with the gene electrotransfer of interleukin 12 (IL-12 GET) has been successfully used in veterinary medicine for the treatment of mast cell tumours (MCT), but the biomarkers that could predict response to this treatment have not yet been investigated. The aim of this study was to determine the plasma nucleosome and serum ferritin concentrations, as well as the lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity, in the serum of treated patients before and one and six months after treatment to evaluate their utility as potential biomarkers that could predict response to the combined treatment. The study was conducted in 48 patients with a total of 86 MCTs that we treated with the combined treatment. The blood samples used for analysing the potential predictive biomarkers were taken before treatment and one and six months after treatment, when the response to treatment was also assessed. The Nu. Q® Vet Cancer Test, the Canine Ferritin ELISA Kit, and the RX Daytona+ automated biochemical analyser were used to analyse the blood samples. The results showed that the plasma nucleosome concentration (before treatment (BT): 32.84 ng/mL (median); one month after treatment (1 M AT): 58.89 ng/mL (median); p = 0.010) and serum LDH activity (BT: 59.75 U/L (median); 1 M AT: 107.5 U/L (median); p = 0.012) increased significantly one month after treatment and that the increase correlated significantly with the presence of a more pronounced local reaction (necrosis, swelling, etc.) at that time point for both markers (nucleosome: BT (necrosis): 21.61 ng/mL (median); 1 M AT (necrosis): 69.92 ng/mL (median), p = 0.030; LDH: BT (necrosis): 54.75 U/L (median); 1 M AT (necrosis): 100.3 U/L (median), p = 0.048). Therefore, both the plasma nucleosome concentration and serum LDH activity could serve as early indicators of the effect of the treatment. In this context, the serum ferritin concentration showed no significant predictive potential for treatment response (p > 0.999 for all comparisons). In conclusion, this study provides some new and important observations on the use of predictive biomarkers in veterinary oncology. Furthermore, it emphasises the need for the continued identification and validation of potential predictive biomarkers in dogs with MCT and other malignancies undergoing ECT treatment in combination with IL-12 GET to ultimately improve treatment outcomes.
Selenium Content in the Gonads of Healthy Cats (Felis catus) and Cats with Impaired Homeostasis from the Warsaw Area (Poland)
Authors: Skibniewska Ewa M. , Skibniewski Michał
Published: January 2024

The aim of the present study was to evaluate selenium content in the gonads of healthy cats and those with impaired homeostasis with the use of fluorescence spectroscopy. Higher concentrations of selenium were found in the gonads of the male domestic cats studied. The average content of this element in the testes of healthy males was: 0.59 mg·kg−1 while 0.47 mg·kg−1 wet weight was recorded in the ovaries of females. In the case of individuals with impaired homeostasis, higher values of selenium were found in the ovaries of obese females (0.40 mg·kg−1), while in the case of females with diagnosed malignancy of the mammary gland, the average values were lower and amounted to 0.31 mg·kg−1 wet weight of tissue. On the basis of statistical analysis, significant differences were found according to sex, age, and disturbed homeostasis of the individuals studied. An association was found between low Se in the gonads and obesity, as well as the presence of mammary gland neoplastic lesions. In addition, Se content was found to decrease with age in females, which can reduce resistance to oxidative stress.
Farm Animal Welfare during Transport and at the Slaughterhouse: Perceptions of Slaughterhouse Employees, Livestock Drivers, and Veterinarians
Authors: Lipovšek Maja , Kirbiš Andrej , Tomažič Iztok , Dovč Alenka , Križman Manja
Published: January 2024

Animal welfare is a multidimensional concept that includes several physical and psychological parameters of the animal. The aim of this study was to assess animal welfare during transportation and in Slovenian beef, pork, and poultry slaughterhouses. A questionnaire was used for this study. Several parameters of animal welfare were rated on a 5-point scale, such as health status, animal behavior, lairage or transport vehicle conditions, and driver regulation compliance. The scale was also used for the second part of the study. This consisted of two studies: (1) self-assessment by slaughterhouse employees and livestock transport drivers and (2) animal welfare observational assessment performed by two veterinarians. The results were compared with each other. Ten large slaughterhouses and nine livestock drivers took part in the survey. The results showed that slaughterhouse employees knew more about animal welfare than livestock truck drivers, but both groups were not sufficiently familiar with animal welfare laws and regulations. This study found that the experts’ assessments were generally lower than the self-assessments of employees and livestock drivers. Based on the research findings, it can be concluded that there is a need to improve the awareness and knowledge of slaughterhouse employees and livestock drivers regarding animal handling and animal welfare regulations.
Whole-Genome Resequencing Reveals Genetic Diversity and Wool Trait-Related Genes in Liangshan Semi-Fine-Wool Sheep
Authors: Sun Xueliang , Guo Jiazhong , Li Ran , Zhang Huanhuan , Zhang Yifei , Liu George E. , Emu Quzhe , Zhang Hongping
Published: January 2024

Understanding the genetic makeup of local sheep breeds is essential for their scientific conservation and sustainable utilization. The Liangshan semi-fine-wool sheep (LSS), a Chinese semi-fine-wool breed renowned for its soft wool, was analyzed using whole-genome sequencing data including 35 LSS, 84 sheep from other domestic breeds, and 20 Asiatic mouflons. We investigated the genetic composition of LSS by conducting analyses of the population structure, runs of homozygosity, genomic inbreeding coefficients, and selection signature. Our findings indicated that LSS shares greater genetic similarity with Border Leicester and Romney sheep than with Tibetan (TIB), Yunnan (YNS), and Chinese Merino sheep. Genomic analysis indicated low to moderate inbreeding coefficients, ranging from 0.014 to 0.154. In identifying selection signals across the LSS genome, we pinpointed 195 candidate regions housing 74 annotated genes (e.g., IRF2BP2, BVES, and ALOX5). We also found the overlaps between the candidate regions and several known quantitative trait loci related to wool traits, such as the wool staple length and wool fiber diameter. A selective sweep region, marked by the highest value of cross-population extended haplotype homozygosity, encompassed IRF2BP2—an influential candidate gene affecting fleece fiber traits. Furthermore, notable differences in genotype frequency at a mutation site (c.1051 + 46T > C, Chr25: 6,784,190 bp) within IRF2BP2 were observed between LSS and TIB and YNS sheep (Fisher’s exact test, p < 2.2 × 10−16). Taken together, these findings offer insights crucial for the conservation and breeding enhancement of LSS.
The Availability of Essential Antimicrobials in Public and Private Sector Facilities: A Cross-Sectional Survey in a District of North India
Authors: Mittal Niti , Mittal Rakesh , Singh Sukhbir , Godara Sushila
Published: January 2024

(1) Background: There is a need to assess the availability of essential antimicrobials, as the availability of an antimicrobial is a critical element of its rational use. We aimed to assess the availability of antimicrobials listed in the National List of Essential Medicines 2015, India (primary list), and a selected (secondary) list comprised of agents indicated for commonly encountered infectious illnesses in various healthcare settings and to identify the reasons for their non-availability. (2) Methods: A cross-sectional survey of 25 public, private, and other sector pharmacies was carried out in Rohtak, a district of the North Indian state of Haryana, from April to June 2022. (3) Results: Most of the antimicrobials surveyed were optimally available in various sector pharmacies with the exception of benzathine benzylpenicillin, benzylpenicillin, cloxacillin, cefazolin, cefuroxime, cefadroxil, amphotericin B, and antimalarials. The most frequent reasons for limited availability were low demand, no prescriptions, and the non-listing of drugs in the state’s essential medicine list. (4) Conclusions: Enough evidence needs to be generated with respect to the status of availability of essential antimicrobials from different regions of India as well as other lower-middle-income countries to devise measures for ascertaining better availability of these agents, especially antibiotics at regional, national, and global scales.
The Utilization of an Aloe Vera Rind By-Product: Deep Eutectic Solvents as Eco-Friendly and Recyclable Extraction Media of Polyphenolic Compounds
Authors: Ioannou Georgia D. , Ioannou Katerina A. , Christou Atalanti , Stavrou Ioannis J. , Kapnissi-Christodoulou Constantina P.
Published: January 2024

In this study, an optimized environmentally friendly procedure was employed to enhance the sustainable utilization of phenolic antioxidants derived from aloe vera rind by-products. The procedure involved the application of ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) in combination with deep eutectic solvents (DESs). Eleven different DESs and three conventional solvents were employed as extraction media for polyphenolic compounds. Choline chloride–citric acid (ChCl-CA) was selected as the most suitable extractant, considering its extraction efficiency in relation to the total phenolic content. The operating conditions of UAE were optimized and modeled by the use of response surface methodology in order to maximize the yield of total phenolics and antioxidant capacity. The optimal operational parameters for the UAE procedure were determined to be 16.5 min, 74% (v/v) DES in water, and a solvent-to-solid ratio equal to 192. HPLC analysis, which was performed on the optimum extract, revealed significant levels of phenolics present in the aloe rind. Efficient recovery of the extracted antioxidants was obtained by the use of solid-phase extraction (SPE) and polyamide cartridges. The ChCl-CA DES exhibited excellent recycling capability with a yield of over 90% through SPE. Finally, the greenness of the method was evaluated using the green AGREE and AGREEprep metrics. The results highlighted the sustainability and the greenness of the proposed extraction procedure for the aloe by-product.
A High-Performance Food Package Material Prepared by the Synergistic Crosslinking of Gelatin with Polyphenol–Titanium Complexes
Authors: Zhang Wanqin , Liu Jiaman , Zhang Tao , Teng Bo
Published: January 2024

This study aims to enhance gelatin film performance in the food industry by incorporating polyphenol–titanium complexes (PTCs) as crosslinkers. PTCs introduce multiple linkages with gelatin, including coordination and hydrogen bonds, resulting in synergistic crosslinking effects. This leads to an increased hydrodynamic volume, particle size, and thermal stability of the gelatin films. Compared to films crosslinked solely by polyphenols or titanium, PTC-crosslinked gelatin films exhibit significant improvements. They show enhanced mechanical properties with a tensile strength that is 1.7 to 2.6 times higher than neat gelatin films. Moreover, these films effectively shield UV light (from 82% to 99%), providing better protection for light-sensitive food ingredients and preserving lutein content (from 74.2% to 78.1%) under light exposure. The incorporation of PTCs also improves film hydrophobicity, as indicated by water contact angles ranging from 115.3° to 131.9° and a water solubility ranging from 31.5% to 33.6%. Additionally, PTC-enhanced films demonstrate a superior antioxidant ability, with a prolonged polyphenol release (up to 18 days in immersed water) and a higher free radical scavenging ability (from 22% to 25.2%). Overall, the improved characteristics of gelatin films enabled by PTCs enhance their performance, making them suitable for various food packaging applications.
Poly(ε-caprolactone)–Ionic Liquid Composite as Piezoionic Mechanical Sensor
Authors: Di Pasquale Giovanna , Graziani Salvatore , Latteri Alberta , Pollicino Antonino , Trigona Carlo
Published: January 2024

In recent years, the issue related to electronic waste production has been gaining prominence. One of the approaches considered to limit the impact of e-waste on the environment involves the development of biodegradable electronic devices or devices that dissolve in the environment at the end of their life cycle. In this study, we present the preliminary results related to the creation of a sensor that could meet both criteria. The device was constructed using a composite material obtained by impregnating a membrane of polycaprolactone (a biodegradable polymer) with 1-Ethyl-3-Methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate (a water-soluble ionic liquid), which was coated with a conductive silver-based varnish. Leveraging the piezoionic effect, the device has been proven to function as a vibration sensor with a sensitivity of approximately 1.9 × 10−5 V/mm and a resolution of about 0.15 mm.
A Forward−Backward Splitting Equivalent Source Method Based on S−Difference
Authors: Mao Jin , Wang Zeyu , Liu Jiang , Song Danlong
Published: January 2024

The regularization method has a direct impact on the accuracy of the reconstructed sound field in the process of inverse calculation of near−field acoustic holography using the equivalent source method. To expand the frequency range of sound field reconstruction and improve computational accuracy, a forward-backward splitting equivalent source method based on s−difference was proposed, which uses the ratio of the output results of the broadband acoustic holography algorithm as the regularization parameter. Numerical simulations of single source and coherent source sound fields were conducted under different frequency conditions to analyze the performance of the forward-backward splitting regularization algorithm based on s−difference, and experimental verification was performed. The simulation results show that the proposed method can accurately reconstruct the sound field in a wider frequency range, and has high accuracy in reconstructing the sound field of low−frequency coherent sources. The experimental results demonstrate the accuracy and effectiveness of this method in reconstructing mid−to−low−frequency sound fields.
Estimation of the Wind Load Required to Cause the Overturning of a Gantry Crane, Comparing Different Structures of the Main Horizontal Girder
Authors: Augustyn Marcin , Barski Marek
Published: January 2024

The present paper concerns the problem of estimating the loading induced by the wind on a gantry crane standing in the open air. Sufficiently strong wind may cause the device to move or even tip over. Two different structures were studied, namely the box girder and truss girder. At the very beginning, the two sectional scaled parts of the main horizontal beam (box and truss girder) of the gantry were prepared. Next, experimental analysis using these models was carried out in an aerodynamic tunnel to estimate the horizontal forces induced by the airflow acting on them. The experimental values of the aerodynamic forces were exploited to verify the 3D computational model of the studied structure. Numerical computations were carried out using the ANSYS Fluent 2022R2 system for both sectional models of the gantry crane mentioned above. The standard k-epsilon model of the turbulent flow of the air is employed. Satisfactory agreement of the values between the experimental and numerical results was achieved. As a result of the performed computations, the magnitude of the critical wind velocity that can be dangerous for the studied gantry cranes was estimated. Finally, a model of the gantry crane with box girder at full scale was analyzed using CFD simulations for different Davenport wind profiles. The results obtained from the experimental and numerical analysis of the sectional models were compared with the appropriate standards. In the current work, attention is drawn to the importance of changing wind direction in the vertical plane since, as shown in the results of this work, even a small change in vertical angle, up to 6°, causes significant changes in the value of the force required to overturn the gantry crane.
Comparison of the Saccadic Eye Movement Ability of Female Professional Basketball Players and Non-Athletes
Authors: Tatara Shunya , Toda Haruo , Maeda Fumiatsu , Ito Atsushi , Handa Tomoya
Published: January 2024

Athletes, particularly ball game players, benefit from focusing on fast-moving visual targets. In this study, we hypothesized that athletes, specifically professional basketball players, exhibit more accurate saccadic eye movements compared to non-athletes. To test this hypothesis, we assessed the eye movements of eight female professional basketball players from the Niigata Albirex BB (basketball player group) and compared them to eight sex-matched healthy volunteers from a previous study. Eye movements were measured using the Eye Score device. The visual target moved continuously for 20 s at a speed of 100 degrees/s in regular triangular wave-like movements horizontally. The subjects tracked the visual targets with maximum accuracy. The total amplitudes of evoked eye movements during tracking were 37.96 ± 0.82 for the basketball player group and 27.74 ± 2.55 deg (mean ± SEM) for the non-athlete group, indicating a significant difference. These findings suggest that basketball players may achieve accurate saccades by employing predictive saccades. The saccades of the basketball players were concentrated at the fifth frame (0.17 s after the onset of target motion), exhibiting a more peaked distribution than the normal curve. The results imply that athletes may execute predictive saccades when tracking targets with predictable movements, even outside of actual competition.
Evaluation of the Influence of Vestibular Surface Morphology Variability of Maxillary Incisors on Torque: Examination Using 3D Intraoral Scans
Authors: Wajda Michał , Lis Joanna , Minch Liwia , Kawala Beata
Published: January 2024

Proper torque is an important element of orthodontic treatment. There are many factors affecting effective torque expression, e.g., the interplay between an archwire and a bracket, the precision during bracket positioning, and the morphology of the crown vestibular surface (CrVS) of the tooth. Our study focused on the impact of the maxillary incisor CrVS morphology on the torque exerted by the archwire–bracket interplay. Three-dimensional models of 50 patients acquired through the use of an intraoral scanner were used to examine the four maxillary incisors. A total of 200 teeth were examined. The influence of the tooth crown shape on the bracket position and the related torque change was analyzed with Ortho Analyzer software 2015 (3Shape, Copenhagen, Denmark). All calculations were made for full size archwires. Central incisors showed less variability in their vestibular surfaces than lateral incisors. For the central incisors, the mean values of the additional palatal root torque ranged from 0.6° to 1.6°. For the laterals, the mean values ranged from 1.4° of additional vestibular root torque to 3.5° of additional palatal root torque. The results showed essential morphological differentiation of the CrVS of the maxillary incisors. Therefore, when the bracket is positioned, the individual variation in the tooth surface should be considered and evaluated.
An Initial Case Study of the Computational Modeling of Cord–Rubber Segments
Authors: Láštic Daniel , Řehák Kamil , Prokop Aleš , Krpalek David , Šplíchal Jan , Žlábek Pavel
Published: January 2024

This paper presents an initial study of the computational modeling for determining the stress–strain behavior of the cord–rubber segment, tailored to be used as a flexible member in the construction of torque transfer coupling in railway vehicles. The presented computational models use the multibody simulation approach for the assessment of segment deformation under diverse loading characteristics. The results are then used in the finite element computational models of the cord–rubber segment. The computational model is validated through tension tests of cord–rubber segments. The homogenized and microstructural models show their ability to simulate the overall stiffness of the segment relatively accurately in tension, but they are limited in not being able to include the influence of the segment’s manufacturing technology. The micro-scale computational model then incorporates realistic representations of cord bundles, considering various cross-sectional shapes, whereas a very important factor significantly influencing the correlation of the results of the technical experiment and simulation is the consideration of the manufacturing technology in the process of building the computational model. The results show that the computational modeling approach in this work can be used for the determination of the optimal manufacturing technology conditions with regard to the stress–strain behavior of the given segment.
Special Issue on “Heavy Metal Toxicity: Environmental and Human Health Risk Assessment”
Authors: Sinicropi Maria Stefania
Published: January 2024

Exposure to toxic metals is a well-known problem in industrialized countries [...]
The Use of a Double Bottom Trawl Set to Assess the Selectivity of Innovative Codends in Baltic Cod (Gadus morhua) Fishing
Authors: Zalewski Paweł , Nowakowski Piotr , Berest Krzysztof , Krzemień Grzegorz , Artyszuk Jarosław , Żuliński Artur , Kasprowicz Marta
Published: January 2024

The overall objective of the study presented in this paper was to evaluate the selectivity properties of three innovative codends in Baltic cod fishing: (1) an ultracross codend of 120 mm square mesh, (2) an ultracross codend with additional devices reducing the speed of water flow—one tarpaulin diffuser and one net confusor of 120 mm mesh, and (3) an ultracross codend with two tarpaulin diffusers and two net confusors of 120 mm mesh. These codends were firstly tested at sea by single trawls and compared to T90 and herring codend trawls, allowing assessment of caught fish mass and dimensions. Additionally, a special divided small-mesh coat for the innovative codends enabled determination of the amount as well as the length and mass of cod escaping from the codend both while the trawling gear was towed and while it was hauled. Further validation of codend selectivity was carried out by a double (twin) bottom trawl set deployed from one cutter in various variants of innovative codends compared to standard ones. The results of the study indicate that the use of an innovative ultracross codend and innovative devices reducing the water flow speed (tarpaulin diffusers and 120 mm net confusors) significantly reduces the number of undersized cod (<35 cm), even down to 1.3%, in the haul and contributes to a reduction in invisible mortal discard.
Fermentative Liberation and Transformation of Bioactive Compounds: Ellagic Acid from Nut Press Cake Ellagitannins
Authors: Brück Wolfram Manuel , Erismann Yannick , Andlauer Wilfried
Published: January 2024

Oil extracted from walnuts leaves behind large amounts of defatted press cake that still retains valuable nutrients. Solid state fermentation (SSF) is a promising method to liberate bioactive compounds from food by-products. Aspergillus oryzae, Rhizopus oligosporus, and Streptococcus thermophilus possess the necessary enzymes to utilize these nutrients from the walnut press cake (WPC) and convert walnut ellagitannins into ellagic acid and urolithins. This study conducted SSF with WPC to release ellagic acid from ellagitannins and form urolithins. The growth of the two filamentous fungi could be observed visually and the growth of Streptococcus thermophilus was confirmed by plate count technique. Extracts from fermented products were subjected to analysis using HPLC–DAD to measure the release of ellagic acid from ellagitannins. Additionally, a more sensitive UHPLC–MS method was employed to screen fermented samples for urolithin A. The ellagic acid content exhibited no perceptible change but was already present in the press cake before and after all fermentations. Urolithin A was undetectable, even with the more sensitive MS method. All studies showing urolithin A formation were conducted under anaerobic conditions. This might be a basic prerequisite for the transformation of ellagic acid to urolithins.
Attribution of Runoff Variation in Reservoir Construction Area: Based on a Merged Deep Learning Model and the Budyko Framework
Authors: Zhang Lilan , Chen Xiaohong , Huang Bensheng , Chen Liangxiong , Liu Jie
Published: January 2024

This study presents a framework to attribute river runoff variations to the combined effects of reservoir operations, land surface changes, and climate variability. We delineated the data into natural and impacted periods. For the natural period, an integrated Long Short-Term Memory and Random Forest model was developed to accurately simulate both mean and extreme runoff values, outperforming existing models. This model was then used to estimate runoff unaffected by human activities in the impacted period. Our findings indicate stable annual and wet season mean runoff, with a decrease in wet season maximums and an increase in dry season means, while extreme values remained largely unchanged. A Budyko framework incorporating reconstructed runoff revealed that rainfall and land surface changes are the predominant factors influencing runoff variations in wet and dry seasons, respectively, and land surface impacts become more pronounced during the impacted period for both seasons. Human activities dominate dry season runoff variation (93.9%), with climate change at 6.1%, while in the wet season, the split is 64.5% to 35.5%. Climate change and human activities have spontaneously led to reduced runoff during the wet season and increased runoff during the dry season. Only reservoir regulation is found to be linked to human-induced runoff changes, while the effects of land surface changes remain ambiguous. These insights underscore the growing influence of anthropogenic factors on hydrological extremes and quantify the role of reservoirs within the impacts of human activities on runoff.
Evaluation and Error Analysis of Multi-Source Precipitation Datasets during Summer over the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Zhao Keyue , Zhong Shanshan
Published: January 2024

Due to the scarcity of meteorological stations on the Tibetan Plateau (TP), owing to the high altitude and harsh climate, studies often resort to satellite, reanalysis, and merged multi-source precipitation data. This necessitates an evaluation of TP precipitation data applicability. Here, we assess the following three high-resolution gridded precipitation datasets: the China Meteorological Forcing Dataset (CMFD), the European Center for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts Reanalysis V5-Land (ERA5-Land), and Integrated Multi-satellitE Retrievals for Global Precipitation Measurement (IMERG) during TP summers. Using observations from the original 133 China Meteorological Administration stations on the TP as a reference, the evaluation yielded the following conclusions: (1) In summer, from 2000 to 2018, discrepancies among the datasets were largest in the western TP. The CMFD showed the smallest deviation from the observations, and the annual summer precipitation was only overestimated by 12.3 mm. ERA5-Land had the closest trend (0.41 mm/y) to the annual mean summer precipitation, whereas it overestimated the highest precipitation (>150 mm). (2) The reliability of the three datasets at annual and monthly scales was in the following order: CMFD, ERA5-Land, and IMERG. The daily scales exhibited a lower accuracy than the monthly scales (correlation coefficient CC of 0.51, 0.38, and 0.26, respectively). (3) The CMFD assessments, referencing the 114 new stations post-2016, had a notably lower accuracy and precipitation capture capability at the daily scale (CC and critical success index (CSI) decreased by 0.18 and 0.1, respectively). These results can aid in selecting appropriate datasets for refined climate predictions on the TP.
Investigation on Condensation Characteristics and Removal Performance of SO3 in Low-Low-Temperature Electrostatic Precipitator
Authors: Sun Zongkang , Chen Heng , Yang Linjun
Published: January 2024

The low-low-temperature electrostatic precipitator (LLT-ESP) is considered one of the mainstream technological approaches for achieving ultra-low ash emissions and has already been applied in many coal-fired power plants. Particulate matter and SO3 can both be removed by LLT-ESP. However, the removal performance of SO3 is relatively lower than that of particulate matter, which is caused by the condensation characteristics of SO3. In this paper, the condensation characteristics of SO3 were investigated on a simulated experimental system, and several measurement and characteristic methods were used to investigate mechanisms. After reducing the flue gas temperature with a heat exchanger, the size distribution of particulate matter, the mass concentration of SO3 on different sizes of particulate matter, as well as the microscopic morphology and elemental composition of particulate matter, were all experimentally studied. The results indicate that gaseous SO3 transformed into a liquid phase by heterogeneous or homogeneous condensation and then adhered to the surface of particulate matter through nucleation–condensation, collision–coalescence, and adsorption reactions. Furthermore, the removal efficiency of SO3 in LLT-ESP was also investigated under various conditions, such as ash concentration and flue gas temperature drop, suggesting that a higher ash concentration and a more significant temperature drop were beneficial for improving SO3 removal efficiency. Nevertheless, it is worth noting that the impact was limited by a further increase in ash concentration and a drop in flue gas temperature.
Effects of Wind Shields on Pedestrian-Level Wind Environment around Outdoor Platforms of a Megatall Building
Authors: Liu Zhao , Zheng Chaorong , Lu Dagang , Wang Yijing , Chen Yong , Jin Zhao , Zhang Zhiming
Published: January 2024

A thousand-meter-high megatall building, which consists of three tear-drop-shaped towers arranged in an equilateral triangle and a central circular tower, has ten outdoor platforms along the height at an interval of 100 m to connect the four towers. As the pedestrian-level wind environment around the outdoor platforms of high-rise buildings has been less studied for higher incoming wind speeds than those of the ground wind, it is necessary to conduct the related research and evaluations of the pedestrian-level wind environment around outdoor platforms to ensure pedestrian comfort and safety. First, based on the flow field analysis of the megatall building model, potential aerodynamic measures are proposed to improve the pedestrian-level wind environment of outdoor platforms. Then, the wind tunnel test and CFD simulation of outdoor platforms are conducted with five aerodynamic measures, and an averaged adjustment coefficient is put forward to establish the link between the full model and the sub-configuration model for the wind speed amplification factor, Ri, greater than 1.0, so the data obtained from the wind tunnel test can be transformed for further assessment of the pedestrian-level wind environment. Finally, the Lawson criterion was used to quantitatively analyze and compare the effects of five aerodynamic measures to improve the wind environment, thus providing a design that satisfies the requirements of “wind comfort” and “wind safety” for the thousand-meter-high megatall pedestrian platform. This study contributes to the further understanding of pedestrian-level wind environment characteristics of outdoor platforms and the potential aerodynamic measures to improve wind comfort and wind danger.
Recent Progress of Urea-Based Deep Eutectic Solvents as Electrolytes in Battery Technology: A Critical Review
Authors: Ammar Mohamed , Ashraf Sherif , Gonzalez-casamachin Diego Alexander , Awotoye Damilola Tomi , Baltrusaitis Jonas
Published: January 2024

Urea, a basic chemical compound, holds diverse applications across numerous domains, ranging from agriculture to energy storage. Of particular interest is its role as a hydrogen bond donor (HBD). This specific characteristic has propelled its utilization as an essential component in crafting deep eutectic solvents (DESs) for battery electrolytes. Incorporating urea into DESs presents a promising avenue to address environmental concerns associated with traditional electrolytes, thereby advancing battery technology. Conventional electrolytes, often composed of hazardous and combustible solvents, pose significant environmental risks upon improper disposal potentially contaminating soil and water and threatening both human health and ecosystems. Consequently, there is a pressing need for eco-friendly alternatives capable of upholding high performance and safety standards. DESs, categorized as organic salts resulting from the blending of two or more compounds, have emerged as promising contenders for the next generation of electrolytes. Urea stands out among DES electrolytes by enhancing ion transport, widening the electrochemical window stability (ESW), and prolonging battery cycle life. Further, its non-toxic nature, limited flammability, and elevated thermal stability play pivotal roles in mitigating environmental concerns and safety issues associated with traditional electrolytes. Laboratory testing of urea-based DES electrolytes across various battery systems, including Al-ion, Na-ion, and Zn-ion batteries, has already been demonstrated. This review examines the evolution of urea-based DES electrolytes by elucidating their structure, molecular interaction mechanisms, performance attributes, and preparation methodologies.
Impact of Mixing Shear on Polymer Binder Molecular Weight and Battery Electrode Reproducibility
Authors: Morelly Samantha L. , Saraka Renee M. , Alvarez Nicolas J. , Tang Maureen
Published: January 2024

The viscosity and microstructure of Li-ion battery slurries and the performance of the resulting electrodes have been shown to depend on the mixing protocol. This work applies rheology to understand the impact of shear during mixing and polymer molecular weight on slurry microstructure and electrode performance. Mixing protocols of different shear intensity are applied to slurries of LiNi0.33Mn0.33Co0.33O2 (NMC), carbon black (CB), and polyvinyldiene difluoride (PVDF) in N-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone (NMP), using both high-molecular-weight (HMW) and low-molecular-weight (LMW) PVDF. Slurries of both polymers are observed to form colloidal gels under high-shear mixing, even though unfavorable interactions between high molecular weight PVDF and CB should prevent this microstructure from forming. Theoretical analysis and experimental results show that increasing shear rate during the polymer and particle mixing steps causes polymer scission to decrease the polymer molecular weight and allow colloidal gelation. In general, electrodes made from high molecular weight PVDF generally show increased rate capability. However, high shear rates lead to increased cell variability, possibly due to the heterogeneities introduced by polymer scission.
N-Doped Graphene (N-G)/MOF(ZIF-8)-Based/Derived Materials for Electrochemical Energy Applications: Synthesis, Characteristics, and Functionality
Authors: Talukder Niladri , Wang Yudong , Nunna Bharath Babu , Lee Eon Soo
Published: January 2024

In recent years, graphene-type materials originating from metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) or integrated with MOFs have exhibited notable performances across various applications. However, a comprehensive understanding of these complex materials and their functionalities remains obscure. While some studies have reviewed graphene/MOF composites from different perspectives, due to their structural–functional intricacies, it is crucial to conduct more in-depth reviews focusing on specific sets of graphene/MOF composites designed for particular applications. In this review, we thoroughly investigate the syntheses, characteristics, and performances of N-G/MOF(ZIF-8)-based/derived materials employed in electrochemical energy conversion and storage systems. Special attention is given to realizing their fundamental functionalities. The discussions are divided into three segments based on the application of N-G/ZIF-8-based/derived materials as electrode materials for batteries, electrodes for electrochemical capacitors, and electrocatalysts. As electrodes for batteries, N-G/MOF(ZIF-8) materials can mitigate issues like an electrode volume expansion for Li-ion batteries and the ‘shuttle effect’ for Li-S batteries. As electrodes for electrochemical capacitors, these materials can considerably improve the ion transfer rate and electronic conductivity, thereby enhancing the specific capacitance while maintaining the structural stability. Also, it was observed that these materials could occasionally outperform standard platinum-based catalysts for the electrochemical oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). The reported electrochemical performances and structural parameters of these materials were carefully tabulated in uniform units and scales. Through a critical analysis of the present synthesis trends, characteristics, and functionalities of these materials, specific aspects were identified that required further exploration to fully utilize their inherent capabilities.
Graphite Felt as an Innovative Electrode Material for Alkaline Water Electrolysis and Zinc–Air Batteries
Authors: Lee Yejin , Park Seung-hee , Ahn Sung Hoon
Published: January 2024

Recent advancements in energy conversion and storage systems have placed a spotlight on the role of multi-functional electrodes employing conductive substrates. These substrates, however, often face obstacles due to intricate and expensive production methods, as well as limitations in thickness. This research introduces a novel, economical approach using graphite felt as a versatile electrode. A method to enhance the typically low conductivity of graphite felt was devised, incorporating interfacial chemical tuning and the electrodeposition of a highly conductive nickel layer. This technique facilitates the integration of diverse transition metal-based active sites, aiming to refine the catalytic activity for specific electrochemical reactions. A key finding is that a combination of a nickel-rich cathode and an iron-rich anode can effectively optimize alkaline water electrolysis for hydrogen production at the ampere scale. Furthermore, the addition of sulfur improves the bi-functional oxygen-related redox reactions, rendering it ideal for air cathodes in solid-state zinc–air batteries. The assembled battery exhibits impressive performance, including a peak power density of 62.9 mW cm−2, a minimal voltage gap in discharge–charge polarization, and a lifecycle surpassing 70 h. This advancement in electrode technology signifies a significant leap in energy storage and conversion, offering a sustainable and efficient solution for future energy systems.
Self-Guided Algorithm for Fast Image Reconstruction in Photo-Magnetic Imaging: Artificial Intelligence-Assisted Approach
Authors: Algarawi Maha , Saraswatula Janaki S. , Pathare Rajas R. , Zhang Yang , Shah Gyanesh A. , Eresen Aydin , Gulsen Gultekin , Nouizi Farouk
Published: January 2024

Previously, we introduced photomagnetic imaging (PMI) that synergistically utilizes laser light to slightly elevate the tissue temperature and magnetic resonance thermometry (MRT) to measure the induced temperature. The MRT temperature maps are then converted into absorption maps using a dedicated PMI image reconstruction algorithm. In the MRT maps, the presence of abnormalities such as tumors would create a notable high contrast due to their higher hemoglobin levels. In this study, we present a new artificial intelligence-based image reconstruction algorithm that improves the accuracy and spatial resolution of the recovered absorption maps while reducing the recovery time. Technically, a supervised machine learning approach was used to detect and delineate the boundary of tumors directly from the MRT maps based on their temperature contrast to the background. This information was further utilized as a soft functional a priori in the standard PMI algorithm to enhance the absorption recovery. Our new method was evaluated on a tissue-like phantom with two inclusions representing tumors. The reconstructed absorption map showed that the well-trained neural network not only increased the PMI spatial resolution but also improved the accuracy of the recovered absorption to as low as a 2% percentage error, reduced the artifacts by 15%, and accelerated the image reconstruction process approximately 9-fold.
Efficient 2D Neck Model for Simulation of the Whiplash Injury Mechanism
Authors: Henriques Diamantino , Martins Ana P. , Carvalho Marta S.
Published: January 2024

Whiplash injuries, mainly located in the neck, are one of the most common injuries resulting from road collisions. These injuries can be particularly challenging to detect, compromising the ability to monitor patients adequately. This work presents the development and validation of a computationally efficient model, called Efficient Neck Model—2D (ENM-2D), capable of simulating the whiplash injury mechanism. ENM-2D is a planar multibody model consisting of several bodies that model the head and neck with the same mass and inertia properties of a male occupant model in the 50th percentile. The damping and non-linear spring parameters of the kinematic joints were identified through a multiobjective optimization process, solved sequentially. The TNO-Human Body Model (TNO-HBM), a validated occupant model for rear impact, was simulated, and its responses were used as a reference for validation purposes. The root mean square (RMS) of the deviations of angular positions of the bodies were used as objective functions, starting from the bottom vertebra to the top, and ending in the head. The sequence was repeated until it converged, ending the optimization process. The identified ENM-2D model could simulate the whiplash injury mechanism kinematics and accurately determine the injury criteria associated with head and neck injuries. It had a relative deviation of 8.3% for the head injury criteria and was 12.5 times faster than the reference model.