bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Normative performance data on visual attention in neurotypical children: virtual reality assessment of cognitive and psychomotor development
Authors: Goh Crystal , Ma Yu , Rizzo Albert
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Virtual Reality (VR) is revolutionizing healthcare research and practice by offering innovative methodologies across various clinical conditions. Advances in VR technology enable the creation of controllable, multisensory 3D environments, making it an appealing tool for capturing and quantifying behavior in realistic scenarios. This paper details the application of VR as a tool for neurocognitive evaluation, specifically in attention process assessment, an area of relevance for informing the diagnosis of childhood health conditions such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

Methods: The data presented focuses on attention performance results from a large sample (n = 837) of neurotypical male and female children (ages 6–13) tested on a visual continuous performance task, administered within an immersive VR classroom environment. This data was collected to create a normative baseline database for use to inform comparisons with the performances of children with ADHD to support diagnostic decision-making in this area.

Results: Results indicate systematic improvements on most metrics across the age span, and sex differences are noted on key variables thought to reflect differential measures of hyperactivity and inattention in children with ADHD. Results support VR technology as a safe and viable option for testing attention processes in children, under stimulus conditions that closely mimic ecologically relevant challenges found in everyday life.

Discussion: In response to these stimulus conditions, VR can support advanced methods for capturing and quantifying users’ behavioral responses. VR offers a more systematic and objective approach for clinical assessment and intervention and provides conceptual support for its use in a wide variety of healthcare contexts.
Mosquitoes: Buzzing, Biting, and Making People Sick!
Authors: Rodríguez Lina , Quintero Juliana , González-Uribe Catalina
Published: April 2024

Mosquitoes—those small irritating insects that fly around and bite us on warm days—can also carry diseases that can make people very sick. Mosquitoes “bite” to suck blood from people and animals to feed their eggs. When a mosquito bites someone, it can also transmit a virus or parasite to that person. Mosquito-borne diseases are common in many parts of the world. Diseases carried by mosquitoes include malaria, dengue, and Zika. In this article, we will explain how mosquitoes transmit diseases and describe the main symptoms of several important mosquito-borne diseases. We will also tell you how both individuals and communities can protect themselves from mosquitoes and prevent these dangerous diseases.
Climate Change and Human Health: Causes and Solutions
Authors: Sampath Vanitha , Nadeau Kari C.
Published: April 2024

People who suffer from asthma can have difficulty breathing after they are exposed to normally harmless substances in the air, such as pollen, dust, smoke, and pet dander. Some people experience a worsening of their asthma symptoms after a thunderstorm, and data tell us that climate change is making asthma more of a problem. But how do weather and climate events make it hard for some people to breathe? Asthma happens when the body’s immune system mistakes airborne particles for dangerous invaders and tries to fight them. It seems that climate change is increasing the amounts of air pollution, pollen, and mold in the air. The more of these triggers people breathe in, the greater the risk of asthma. In this article, we will explain how asthma happens, how climate change is making it worse, and what we can all do to help.
Diversity Distribution Analysis of Guava (Psidium guajava L.) Populations in Cultivated and Wild Habitats in the Mid-Hills of Uttarakhand, India
Authors: Semwal Dinesh P. , Longkumar Soyimchiten , Chandra Puran , Rathi Ranbir S. , Rai Krishna M. , Arya Mamta , Ahlawat Sudhir P. , Singh Praveen K.
Published: April 2024

Guava is an exotic fruit crop in India, and its occurrence in wild forests in the mid-hills of the Himalayas is a rare and unique phenomenon in its distribution. In the Ramganga valley of Pithoragarh district, Uttarakhand, a naturalized population of guava (in wild habitat) was chanced upon beside cultivated guava, hence a study was conducted to assess the population structure, phytosociology, diversity distribution patterns, and fruit variability of the guavas. Various ecological parameters like frequency, density, abundance, and A/F ratio were used to study the guava and associated species including tree seedlings in five selected sites. The highest Shannon diversity values (H = 0.367) for guava were found at Pipaltar village. Significant variability was recorded for the fruit color (pale yellow, dark yellow, pink, and whitish), fruit shape (long, round to pear-shaped), fruit length, fruit diameter, fruit weight, pulp color (white to pink), fruit maturity, and total soluble solids (TSS) content of fruits sampled from different sites. The population of maximum similarities and divergence was categorized. The present study highlights that guava is regenerating successfully in the mid-hills of Uttarakhand and that the introduction of guava in the region is not affecting the diversity of other indigenous species.
Does Ecotourism in Nature Reserves Have an Impact on Farmers’ Income? Counterfactual Estimates Based on Propensity Score Matching
Authors: Chen Ke , Ping Yujian , Pan Xinning , Ye Mingzhu , Wang Yang
Published: April 2024

Farmers’ participation in ecological tourism management in nature reserves is an important way to increase income. Based on 921 pieces of household survey data from 44 villages in six nature reserves in Liaoning Province, this paper uses multiple linear regression (OLS) and propensity score matching (PSM) to explore the impact of ecotourism on rural household income. The research results show that (1) a total of 90 rural households participated in ecotourism management, accounting for 9.78% of the total, and 831 rural households did not participate in ecotourism management, accounting for 90.22% of the total. The participation rate of farmers around the nature reserves was not high; (2) the participation in ecotourism management of farmers around the nature reserve has a positive and significant impact on the per capita annual net income of their households; and (3) multiple linear regression analysis will overestimate the income effect of ecotourism. This article provides inspiration for the government to propose relevant policies to encourage farmers to participate in ecotourism.
First Results on the Presence of Mycotoxins in the Liver of Pregnant Fallow Deer (Dama dama) Hinds and Fetuses
Authors: Lakatos István , Babarczi Bianka , Molnár Zsófia , Tóth Arnold , Skoda Gabriella , Horváth Győző F. , Horváth Adrienn , Tóth Dániel , Sükösd Farkas , Szemethy László , Szőke Zsuzsanna
Published: April 2024

Reproductive abnormalities have been observed in fallow deer populations in Hungary. We supposed mycotoxin contamination to be one of the possible causes because multi-mycotoxin contamination is known to be dangerous even at low toxin levels, especially for young animals. We investigated the spatial pattern of mycotoxin occurrences and the relationship between maternal and fetal mycotoxin levels. A total of 72 fallow deer embryos and their mothers were sampled in seven forested regions in Hungary in the 2020/2021 hunting season. We analyzed Aflatoxin (AF), Zearalenone (ZEA), Fumonizin B1 (FB1), DON, and T2-toxin concentrations in maternal and fetal livers by ELISA. AF was present in 70% and 82%, ZEA in 41% and 96%, DON in 90% and 98%, T2-toxin in 96% and 85%, and FB1 in 84% and 3% of hind and fetus livers, respectively. All mycotoxins passed into the fetus, but only Fumonizin B1 rarely passed. The individual variability of mycotoxin levels was extremely high, but the spatial differences were moderate. We could not prove a relation between the maternal and fetal mycotoxin concentrations, but we found an accumulation of ZEA and DON in the fetuses. These results reflect the possible threats of mycotoxins to the population dynamics and reproduction of wild fallow deer.
The Effect of a Direct Fed Microbial on Liveweight and Milk Production in Dairy Cattle
Authors: Ramirez-Garzon Orlando , Al-Alawneh John I. , Barber David , Liu Huanle , Soust Martin
Published: April 2024

This longitudinal study aimed to quantify the effects of dietary supplementation of a direct-fed microbial (DFM) consisting of three lactobacilli isolates on milk yield, milk fat and protein yields, somatic cell count (SCC), and liveweight in a single dairy herd in Australia. A total of 150 dairy cows were randomly selected based on parity and days in milk and divided into two groups: control (n = 75) and DFM treatment (n = 75). Throughout the study, the two groups of cows were housed separately in a dry lot yard, and each group had their own feeding area. For the DFM treatment group, selected cows in mid-lactation were supplemented with 10 mL/cow/day of the DFM via top dressing of the feed for the remainder of the lactation and through the dry period, extending into subsequent lactation. The control group had no supplementation. The milk yield and liveweight were recorded daily. Milk samples were collected every two months for milk component analysis (fat, protein, and somatic cell count [SCC]). The DFM-treated cows gained more liveweight across the study (19.40 kg, 95% CI 0.44 kg; 38.30 kg, p = 0.05) compared to the control cows. In the second production year, the DFM-treated cows mobilized more liveweight (−6.06 kg, 95% CI −10.49 kg; −1.61 kg, p = 0.01) and produced more milk (0.39 L/d 95% CI 0.10; 0.89, p = 0.05). Over a full lactation, DFM cows yielded at least 258 L (95% CI 252 L; 265 L) more milk than controls. No significant differences were found in fat and protein yield or SCC. This study suggests that consistent and ongoing supplementation with a Lacticaseibacillus- and Lentilactobacillus-based DFM could have a positive effect on milk production, but further research is needed to understand the underlying mechanism.
Effect of Management of Grassland on Prey Availability and Physiological Condition of Nestling of Red-Backed Shrike Lanius collurio
Authors: Knozowski Paweł , Nowakowski Jacek J. , Stawicka Anna Maria , Dulisz Beata , Górski Andrzej
Published: April 2024

The study aimed to determine the influence of grassland management on the potential food base of the red-backed shrike Lanius collurio and the condition of chicks in the population inhabiting semi-natural grasslands in the Narew floodplain. The grassland area was divided into three groups: extensively used meadows, intensively used meadows fertilised with mineral fertilisers, and intensively used meadows fertilised with liquid manure, and selected environmental factors that may influence food availability were determined. Using Barber traps, 1825 samples containing 53,739 arthropods were collected, and the diversity, abundance, and proportion of large arthropods in the samples were analysed depending on the grassland use type. In the bird population, the condition of the chicks was characterised by the BCI (Body Condition Index) and haematological parameters (glucose level, haemoglobin level, haematocrit, and H:L ratio). The diversity of arthropods was highest in extensively used meadows. Still, the mean abundance and proportion of arthropods over 1 cm in length differed significantly for Orthoptera, Hymenoptera, Arachne, and Carabidae between grassland use types, with the highest proportion of large arthropods and the highest abundance recorded in manure-fertilised meadows. The highest Body Condition Indexes and blood glucose levels of nestlings indicating good nestling nutrition were recorded in nests of birds associated with extensive land use. The H:L ratio as an indicator of the physiological condition of nestlings was high on manure-fertilised and extensively managed meadows, indicating stress factors associated with these environments. This suggests that consideration should be given to the effects of chemicals, such as pesticides or drug residues, that may come from slurry poured onto fields on the fitness of red-backed shrike chicks.
A Subovulatory Dose of Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) May Sustain Terminal Follicle Development and Reproductive Efficiency during Anestrus in Sheep
Authors: Cox José Francisco , Carrasco Albert , Navarrete Felipe , Bocic Antonio , Saravia Fernando , Dorado Jesús
Published: April 2024

The study tested the hypothesis that a single administration of hCG supports the LH-dependent phase of terminal follicular development in synchronized sheep during anestrus, using eCG as a functional reference. Using a clinical approach, four experiments were designed to achieve the following: (1) Identify the inhibitory influence of anestrus on reproduction efficiency; (2) Assess the potential of hCG to keep functional blood concentrations after a single dose; (3) Characterize the effect of different doses of hCG on reproductive functional markers; (4) To compare the ability of hCG to that of eCG to support follicular development and fertility based on the same markers. The results showed that anestrus seems to affect follicular and luteal function under LH dependency as FSH-dependent markers are not compromised; hCG maintains higher blood concentrations than controls for at least 48 h; hCG improves follicular development and ovulatory rates compared to controls and at standards comparable to a breeding season; and ewes treated with hCG exhibit similar performance to those treated with eCG. Our results conclude that hCG can be used to support follicular function during anestrus in sheep, aiming to perfect its regulation in assisted reproduction.
Genomic Prediction of Growth Traits in Yorkshire Pigs of Different Reference Group Sizes Using Different Estimated Breeding Value Models
Authors: Yin Chang , Shi Haoran , Zhou Peng , Wang Yuwei , Tao Xuzhe , Yin Zongjun , Zhang Xiaodong , Liu Yang
Published: April 2024

The need for sufficient reference population data poses a significant challenge in breeding programs aimed at improving pig farming on a small to medium scale. To overcome this hurdle, investigating the advantages of combing reference populations of varying sizes is crucial for enhancing the accuracy of the genomic estimated breeding value (GEBV). Genomic selection (GS) in populations with limited reference data can be optimized by combining populations of the same breed or related breeds. This study focused on understanding the effect of combing different reference group sizes on the accuracy of GS for determining the growth effectiveness and percentage of lean meat in Yorkshire pigs. Specifically, our study investigated two important traits: the age at 100 kg live weight (AGE100) and the backfat thickness at 100 kg live weight (BF100). This research assessed the efficiency of genomic prediction (GP) using different GEBV models across three Yorkshire populations with varying genetic backgrounds. The GeneSeek 50K GGP porcine high-density array was used for genotyping. A total of 2295 Yorkshire pigs were included, representing three Yorkshire pig populations with different genetic backgrounds—295 from Danish (small) lines from Huaibei City, Anhui Province, 500 from Canadian (medium) lines from Lixin County, Anhui Province, and 1500 from American (large) lines from Shanghai. To evaluate the impact of different population combination scenarios on the GS accuracy, three approaches were explored: (1) combining all three populations for prediction, (2) combining two populations to predict the third, and (3) predicting each population independently. Five GEBV models, including three Bayesian models (BayesA, BayesB, and BayesC), the genomic best linear unbiased prediction (GBLUP) model, and single-step GBLUP (ssGBLUP) were implemented through 20 repetitions of five-fold cross-validation (CV). The results indicate that predicting one target population using the other two populations yielded the highest accuracy, providing a novel approach for improving the genomic selection accuracy in Yorkshire pigs. In this study, it was found that using different populations of the same breed to predict small- and medium-sized herds might be effective in improving the GEBV. This investigation highlights the significance of incorporating population combinations in genetic models for predicting the breeding value, particularly for pig farmers confronted with resource limitations.
Feline Facial Spindle Cell Tumors in 29 Cats: Histomorphological and Immunohistochemical Characterization
Authors: Soto Sara , Blatter Sohvi , Hobi Stefan , Steck Marco , Lechmann Julia , Rüfenacht Silvia , Kühn Nicolas , Ruetten Maja , Ignatenko Nataliia , Krudewig Christiane
Published: April 2024

Soft tissue tumors/sarcomas (STSs) in felines, encompassing a variety of mesenchymal tumors with similar histomorphological features, present diagnostic challenges due to their diverse cellular origins and the overlap with other tumor types such as feline sarcoid. This study aimed to delineate the clinical, histomorphological, and immunohistochemical characteristics of 34 feline facial spindle cell tumors affecting 29 cats, including testing for bovine papillomavirus type 14 (BPV14), the virus causing feline sarcoids. Only five out of 12 tumors previously diagnosed as feline sarcoids based on histomorphology were confirmed by PCR for BPV14, underscoring the importance of comprehensive diagnostic approaches to accurately distinguish between STSs and feline sarcoids. This study shows that most facial spindle cell tumors were compatible with peripheral nerve sheath tumors (PNSTs) based on positive immunohistochemical staining for Sox10 and other immunohistochemical markers such as GFAP, NSE, and S100. Some of these tumors displayed as multiple independent masses on the face or as erosive and ulcerative lesions without obvious mass formation, an atypical presentation and an important highlight for general practitioners, dermatologists, and oncologists. This study also describes periadnexal whorling of neoplastic cells as a novel histomorphologic finding in feline facial PNSTs and emphasizes Sox10 as a useful complementary immunohistochemical marker for the diagnosis of facial PNST in cats, providing valuable insights for veterinary pathologists.
A Single-Phase Lightweight Double-Leaf Multi-Stage Acoustic Black Hole Model of Metamaterial
Authors: Li Lixia , Jiang Shanhe , Bai Jin , Su Kun , Hu Haiteng , Zhang Lei
Published: April 2024

In this paper, a novel single-phase double-leaf multi-stage acoustic black hole (SDM-ABH) is proposed. Compared with the traditional double-leaf ABH metamaterials, the unit cell consists of multiple sub-ABH structures arranged in a gradient periodically along the length direction. The energy band structure of the SDM-ABH metamaterial is calculated by the finite element method, and it is found that its weight decreases with the increase in the number of stages, but the bandgap ratio and attenuation both increase. By analysing the vibration modes at special points and the vibration displacement response of finite construction, it is revealed that strong attenuation at a low-frequency broadband is caused by the increase in the number of sub-ABHs that appear to have ABH effects due to the increase in the number of stages. In addition, the effect of structural parameters on the bandgap is investigated, and it is found that SDM-ABH metamaterials can be modulated at low frequencies by changing the truncation thickness and the power exponent of the sub-acoustic black hole, in which the increase in the truncation thickness t leads to the gradual weakening of the ABH effect of the sub-ABH until it disappears. The strong low-frequency attenuation properties of SDM-ABH metamaterials provide a method for a lightweight vibration damping design of metamaterials.
Metal and Pesticide Assessments of Imported and Locally Cultivated Rice (Oryza sativa) in Senegal
Authors: Ndiaye Anna , Traore Alassane , Gueye Papa Sam , Senwo Zachary , Ndiaye Momar , Diop Abdoulaye
Published: April 2024

Identifying heavy metal and pesticide contaminants is an essential step in assessing the health indicators of rice cultivation and consumption in Africa. Information on the contaminant levels of the imported and cultivated rice consumed in Senegal seems lacking. In this study, we assessed heavy metals, pesticides, ash, and protein in rice using rice samples from India, Thailand, South America, Vietnam, and China. Arsenic, Pb, Cd, Ni, Cu, Mo, Co, Cr, and Al are usually found in the soils used for rice cultivation in northern Senegal. While the heavy metal levels measured in soils were above the threshold limit, only Pb, Cd, and Al were found in cultivated rice. In all the analyzed rice samples from each country, there were certain amounts of Pb, As Al, and Cd. The concentration ranges in the six countries were as follows: 0.635–1.165 mg kg−1 for Pb, 0.047–0.438 mg kg−1 for As, 2.22–95.54 mg kg−1 for Al, and 0.002–0.082 mg kg−1 for Cd. The protein content in cultivated rice in Senegal was 7.31 mg kg−1, while the average from the imported rice ranged between 6.42% and 7.32%. The humidity levels in imported rice ranged between 11.12% and 12.95%. The fat content for the rice from six countries ranged between 0.22% and 0.67%, and the ash content ranged between 0.23% and 0.48%. These results allowed for the determination of the carbohydrate concentration, which varied between 79.18% and 80.82%. Indeed, freshly harvested rice grains typically contain around 80% carbohydrates. We noticed the presence of pesticides in all rice samples. The levels of three pesticides (total Pyrethrin, Bensulfuron-methyl, Propanyl, and 2,4D) were found to be beyond their maximum residue limits (MRLs) from the Codex Alimentarius, whereas deltamethrin was found to be below its MRL. This study indicates the presence of heavy metals carcinogenic to humans (Al, As, Cd, and Pb). Additionally, this study reveals the presence of deltamethrin, which is classified as probably carcinogenic to humans (Group 1), and 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid, which is classified as possibly carcinogenic to humans (Group 2B).
How Hydrogen (H2) Can Support Food Security: From Farm to Fork
Authors: Russell Grace , Nenov Alexander , Hancock John T.
Published: April 2024

Molecular hydrogen (H2) is a low-molecular-weight, non-polar and electrochemically neutral substance that acts as an effective antioxidant and cytoprotective agent, with research into the effects of H2 incorporation into the food chain, at various stages, rapidly gaining momentum. H2 can be delivered throughout the food growth, production, delivery and storage systems in numerous ways, including as a gas, as hydrogen-rich water (HRW), or with hydrogen-donating food supplements such as calcium (Ca) or magnesium (Mg). In plants, H2 can be exploited as a seed-priming agent, during seed germination and planting, during the latter stages of plant development and reproduction, as a post-harvest treatment and as a food additive. Adding H2 during plant growth and developmental stages is noted to improve the yield and quality of plant produce, through modulating antioxidant pathways and stimulating tolerance to such environmental stress factors as drought stress, enhanced tolerance to herbicides (paraquat), and increased salinity and metal toxicity. The benefits of pre- and post-harvest application of H2 include reductions in natural senescence and microbial spoilage, which contribute to extending the shelf-life of animal products, fruits, grains and vegetables. This review collates empirical findings pertaining to the use of H2 in the agri-food industry and evaluates the potential impact of this emerging technology.
Dynamic Job and Conveyor-Based Transport Joint Scheduling in Flexible Manufacturing Systems
Authors: Gaiardelli Sebastiano , Carra Damiano , Spellini Stefano , Fummi Franco
Published: April 2024

Efficiently managing resource utilization is critical in manufacturing systems to optimize production efficiency, especially in dynamic environments where jobs continually enter the system and machine breakdowns are potential occurrences. In fully automated environments, co-ordinating the transport system with other resources is paramount for smooth operations. Despite extensive research exploring the impact of job characteristics, such as fixed or variable task-processing times and job arrival rates, the role of the transport system has been relatively underexplored. This paper specifically addresses the utilization of a conveyor belt as the primary mode of transportation among a set of production machines. In this configuration, no input or output buffers exist at the machines, and the transport times are contingent on machine availability. In order to tackle this challenge, we introduce a randomized heuristic approach designed to swiftly identify a near-optimal joint schedule for job processing and transfer. Our solution has undergone testing on both state-of-the-art benchmarks and real-world instances, showcasing its ability to accurately predict the overall processing time of a production line. With respect to our previous work, we specifically consider the case of the arrival of a dynamic job, which requires a different design approach since there is a need to keep track of partially processed jobs, jobs that are waiting, and newly arrived jobs. We adopt a total rescheduling strategy and, in order to show its performance, we consider a clairvoyant scheduling approach, in which job arrivals are known in advance. We show that the total rescheduling strategy yields a scheduling solution that is close to optimal.
Experimental Study on Flexural Resistance of UHPC Wet Joint Precast Reinforced Concrete Bridge Deck Slabs with Variable Cross-Section
Authors: Hu Jiaqi , Gu Yin , Yan Jinhuang , Sun Ying , Huang Xinyi
Published: April 2024

With the convenient and fast requirements for construction in bridge engineering, prefabricated assembly technology is widely applied in engineering construction. Typically, prefabricated bridge decks are connected through cast-in-place wet joints. Wet joints, as the primary load-bearing parts of bridge decks, undergo complex stress and are prone to cracking and damage. Particularly in the negative bending moment region of bridges, the influence of tensile stress on wet joints is more severe, thus enhancing the mechanical performance and crack resistance of joints becomes crucial. This paper investigates the mechanical behavior of prefabricated reinforced concrete bridge deck panels with variable cross-sections under negative bending moments, focusing on the performance of Ultra High-Performance Concrete (UHPC) wet joints. Full-scale experimental tests were conducted on a 176 m steel truss composite continuous rigid bridge, employing C50 concrete panels with UHPC wet joints. Results show three distinct stages: elastic, crack initiation and propagation, and failure. The maximum failure load reached 822 kN, with a maximum displacement of 21.64 mm. Concrete strains indicate compressive stress near the wet joint and tensile stress near the loading positions. Cracks primarily develop at the wet joint interface and propagate under increasing load, ultimately leading to flexural–shear failure near the variable cross-section of the wet joint. Numerical simulations using ABAQUS/CAE (2020) corroborate experimental findings, closely matching load-displacement curves and identifying damage locations. The study demonstrates that UHPC wet joints significantly enhance crack resistance, meeting design requirements for improved mechanical performance in bridge structures subjected to negative bending moments.
An EV SRM Drive and Its Interconnected Operations Integrated into Grid, Microgrid, and Vehicle
Authors: Gu Wei-Kai , Yang Chen-Wei , Liaw Chang-Ming
Published: April 2024

This paper presents an electric vehicle (EV) switched reluctance motor (SRM) drive with incorporated operation capabilities integrated into the utility grid, the microgrid, and another EV. The motor drive DC-link voltage is established from the battery through an interleaved boost/buck converter with fault tolerance. The varied DC-link voltage can improve driving performance and reduce battery energy consumption over a wide speed range. Through a well-designed current control scheme, speed control scheme, and dynamic commutation tuning scheme, the established SRM drive possesses good performance in the motor driving mode. During deceleration, the regenerative braking energy can be effectively recovered to the battery. When the EV is in idle mode, the grid-to-vehicle (G2V) charging operation can be conducted through the bidirectional switch mode rectifier (SMR) and CLLC resonant converter. Satisfactory charging performance with good line drawn power quality and galvanic isolation is preserved. Conversely, the vehicle-to-grid (V2G) discharging operation can be performed. The EV can make movable energy storage device applications. Finally, the interconnected operations of the developed EV SRM drive to vehicle and microgrid are presented. Through vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) operation, it can supply energy to the nearby EV when the battery is exhausted and needs roadside assistance. In addition, microgrid-to-vehicle (M2V) and vehicle-to-microgrid (V2M) operations can also be conductible. The EV battery can be charged from the microgrid. Conversely, it can also provide energy support to the microgrid.
Enhancing the Photocatalytic Activity of Immobilized TiO2 Using Laser-Micropatterned Surfaces
Authors: Giannakis Theodoros , Zervou Sevasti-Kiriaki , Triantis Theodoros M. , Christophoridis Christophoros , Bizani Erasmia , Starinskiy Sergey V. , Koralli Panagiota , Mousdis Georgios , Hiskia Anastasia , Kandyla Maria
Published: April 2024

In the past, the application of TiO2 slurry reactors has faced difficulties concerning the recovery and reusability of the catalyst. In response to these challenges, immobilized photocatalyst systems have been investigated, wherein the catalyst is fixed onto a solid support, frequently with reduced photocatalytic performance. In the present study, thin TiO2 films were developed in the anatase phase by the sol-gel process and spin-cast on laser-microstructured silicon substrates, to form photocatalytic surfaces of increased activity. The TiO2 films were thoroughly characterized using SEM-EDX, XRD, UV–Vis spectroscopy, and Raman spectroscopy. The photocatalytic activity of these surfaces was evaluated by the degradation of atrazine in aqueous solution under UV irradiation. Their photocatalytic activity was found to be significantly enhanced (mean kobs 24.1 × 10−3 min−1) when they are deposited on laser-microstructured silicon compared with flat silicon (mean kobs 4.9 × 10−3 min−1), approaching the photocatalytic activity of sol-gel TiO2 fortified with Degussa P25, used as a reference material (mean kobs 32.7 × 10−3 min−1). During the photocatalytic process, several transformation products (TPs) of atrazine, namely 2-chloro-4-(isopropylamino)-6-amino-s-triazine (CIAT), 2-chloro-4-amino-6-(ethylamino)-s-triazine (CAET), and 2-chloro-4.6-diamino-s-triazine (CAAT), were identified with LC–MS/MS. The stability of the photocatalytic surfaces was also investigated and remained unchanged through multiple cycles of usage. The surfaces were further tested with two other pollutants, i.e., 2,4,6-trichlorophenol and bisphenol-a, showing similar photocatalytic activity as with atrazine.
Influence of Different Starter Cultures on Physical–Chemical, Microbiological, and Sensory Characteristics of Typical Italian Dry-Cured “Salame Napoli”
Authors: Polizzi Giulia , Casalino Loriana , Di Paolo Marika , Sardo Alma , Vuoso Valeria , Franco Carlos Manuel , Marrone Raffaele
Published: April 2024

The selection of starter cultures with different technological profiles and suitable microclimatic conditions is among the main tools used to improve the technological quality and safety of dry-cured salami. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of two different starter cultures [fast (SR) and medium (SM) acidification] during the process and on the quality of typical Italian dry-cured “Salame Napoli”. The ripening process was evaluated in dry-cured salami made with different cultures: Euroferment Medium (Staphylococcus xylosus, Lactobacillus plantarum) in SM and Euroferment Rapid (Staphylococcus carnosus, Staphylococcus xylosus, Lactobacillus sakei) in SR. The salami was stuffed in artificial casings, dried for 5 days and then ripened for 28 days at a controlled temperature of 12–14 °C and 80–90% RH. During the ripening process, an evaluation of the appearance, the pH, and the weight loss of the salami were conducted. For each finished product, the physical–chemical, microbiological, rheological, and sensory characteristics were evaluated. The results showed that the different starter cultures influenced the pH descent, which was faster in SR, reaching a pH value of 4.80 in three days. This influenced the consistency profile of the SR salami, which showed higher hardness (46.04 ± 6.53 in SR vs. 35.60 ± 2.62 in SM; p < 0.05) and gumminess (19.21 ± 3.44 in SR vs. 11.89 ± 0.71 in SM; p < 0.05) values. SR salami revealed a higher count of yeasts and a lower malondialdehyde concentration than SM. The presence of the starter in SM has positively affected the intensity of the aroma. The outcomes indicated the importance of selecting starter cultures to not only ensure food safety but also to obtain the desired sensorial characteristics of the product.
Energy-Efficient Mixtures Suitable for 3D Technologies
Authors: Dvorkin Leonid , Marchuk Vitaliy , Mróz Katarzyna , Maroszek Marcin , Hager Izabela
Published: April 2024

Compositions of fine-grained concrete mixtures that provide the minimum required strength values in 1 day (7.5 MPa) have been developed. A comparison was made of the test results of the properties of samples printed on a 3D printer with samples made according to the same recipes on a vibrating platform. A laboratory printer was designed and constructed to study the properties of extruded mixtures. The method was also proposed for measuring concrete mixes’ structural strength. Analysis of experimental data allowed the establishment of the features of the influence of the mineral additives and slag–alkaline binders for a comparison of basic physical and mechanical properties of concretes for 3D printing. It has been experimentally shown that possible undercompaction of the fine-grained mixtures formed on a 3D printer and decrease of properties are compensated by the introduction of hardening activator and superplasticizer additives. The novelty of this work lies in determining the comparative effect of various products of technogenic origin on the properties of mixtures for 3D printing.
Virulence Bioassay of Entomopathogenic Fungi against Adults of Atta mexicana under Controlled Conditions
Authors: Leal Luis J. Amaro , Huerta de la Peña Arturo , Ocampo Fletes Ignacio , Antonio López Pedro , Villa-Ruano Nemesio , Romero-Arenas Omar
Published: April 2024

Leafcutter ants (Atta spp.) are one of the mos t economically harmful pests in agriculture, considered dominant in the Neotropics and South America. Mature colonies of A. mexicana have a great economic impact on Mexico’s agriculture. Microbial agents in the form of biopesticides are an effective component of integrated pest management (IPM) strategies and may present a better alternative to synthetic insecticides. Among the fungi most used as biological insecticides there are Beauveria bassiana and Metarhizium anisopliae. The objective of this research was to evaluate the effect of the entomopathogenic fungi B. bassiana and M. anisopliae of commercial origin and a native strain of B. bassiana from México (MA-Bb1) on adults of Atta mexicana under controlled conditions. In the bioassay, five formulations and a control group were tested (B. bassiana MA-Bb1, B. bassiana MA-Bb1+ Diatomin®, B. bassiana®, M. anisopliae®, Diatomin®, and Tween 80 (0.01%). The MA-Bb1+ Diatomin® biopreparation induced the highest mortality (100%) in four-week-old A. mexicana, followed by the MA-Bb1, M. anisopliae®, and B. bassiana® biopreparations, which caused mortality of 83.33%, 73.98%, and 68.70%, respectively. Treatments containing B. bassiana and M. anisopliae were efficient in controlling A. mexicana under controlled conditions. The most efficient biological control was achieved with the B. bassiana fungus and Diatomin®, which presented the highest total death rate in A. mexicana 96 h post infection, in contrast to the control group (Tween 80), which attained the lowest speed of death in the present investigation.
Evaluation of Rockfill Stabilized-Geosynthetics Reinforced Road Base with Repeated Plate Loading Tests
Authors: Demir Ahmet , Ok Bahadir , Sarici Talha
Published: April 2024

In this study, the performance of unpaved road sections over soft clay soil geosynthetic-reinforced and stabilized with rock fill layer was evaluated using repeated plate loading tests. A total of 10 field tests were carried out using a circular model rigid plate with a diameter of 0.30 m. The parameters investigated included the location and type of geosynthetics and loading conditions (number of loading cycle and traffic loading condition). Based on the test results, the least deformation was observed in the rockfill section. The geocell placed at a depth of one-third thickness of the granular fill layer from the top showed improved performance and was more effective as compared with other geosynthetic reinforcements. However, for granular fill geosynthetic-reinforced or stabilized with rock fill layer, the results demonstrate an improvement in the rutting performance of the pavement and the definite trend of increasing reloading elastic modulus, depending on the traffic loading situation. It has been also observed that the use of geocell or geogrid reinforcement in granular fill layer or more rigid rockfill layer provides an important increase in the modulus improvement ratio (MIR) by at least 36%, 45% and 60% compared to the granular fill section, respectively.
Modulation of the Cellular Microenvironment by Mechanical Fluid Shear Stress and Hypoxia Alters the Differentiation Capacity of Skeletal Muscle-Derived Stem Cells
Authors: Hawlitschek Paula , Klymiuk Michele C. , Eldaey Asmaa , Wenisch Sabine , Arnhold Stefan , Elashry Mohamed I.
Published: April 2024

Skeletal muscle-derived stem cells (MDSCs) are the key modulators of muscle regeneration. An inappropriate cellular microenvironment can reduce the regenerative capacity of MDSCs. This study evaluates the effect of microenvironmental alterations on the cell differentiation capacity using either mechanical fluid shear stress (FSS) or hypoxic conditions. C2C12 mouse myoblasts were differentiated under cyclic FSS (CFSS), periodic FSS (PFSS) for one hour, and hypoxia (3% O2) for up to seven days. Cell proliferation and myogenic differentiation capacities were evaluated using cell viability assays, immunohistochemical staining, and morphometric analysis. The expression of MyoD, myogenin, myosin heavy chain, nitric oxide, hypoxia-inducible factor 1 alpha (HIF1α), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) was quantified by means of RT-qPCR. The data showed that FSS conditions altered cell morphology and increased cell viability and cell distribution compared to static conditions. MyoD and myogenin expression was upregulated under both FSS conditions. CFSS induction improved myogenic differentiation parameters including myotube number, size and fusion capacity. Although hypoxia enhanced cell viability compared to normoxia, it reduced differentiation capacity, as indicated by the downregulation of myogenin and mTOR expression, as well as reducing myotube formation. Under hypoxic conditions, increased nitric oxide production and upregulation of VEGF expression were detected for up to 72 h. The data suggest an improved myogenic differentiation capacity under mechanical FSS; in contrast, the cell differentiation capacity was impaired under hypoxic conditions. The data point out that optimizing the biomechanical and oxidative stressors in the cellular microenvironment could improve stem cell transplantation and enhance their regenerative potential in the context of cell-based therapies.
Yarrowia lipolytica CMGB32 Biosurfactants Produced Using n-Hexadecane: Developing Strategies for Environmental Remediation
Authors: Csutak Ortansa Elisabeta , Nicula Nicoleta-Oana , Lungulescu Eduard-Marius , Marinescu Virgil , Corbu Viorica Maria
Published: April 2024

The yeast Yarrowia lipolytica degrades petroleum compounds, including alkanes, via the monoterminal oxidation pathway, the hydrophobic carbon substrate assimilation is mediated by biosurfactants, and extracellular amphiphilic molecules are produced by the yeast cell. This study focuses on the ability of the strain Y. lipolytica CMGB32 to degrade n-hexadecane by producing biosurfactants with high potential for bioremediation. The hydrocarbon-degrading potential of the yeast strain was observed via a 2,6-dichlorophenolindophenol (DCPIP) test in Bushnell–Hass medium with 1% n-hexadecane, and cell hydrophobicity was expressed as microbial adhesion to hydrocarbons (MATH). Biosurfactant production on yeast peptone (YP) with 1% n-hexadecane was estimated after 72 h using the emulsification index (E24%) against toluene. Crude biosurfactant (cell-free broth) stability tests were performed at different temperatures (4 °C, 70 °C) and NaCl concentrations (2–10%). The effects of a biosurfactant on synthetic wastewater remediation comprised the growth curves (OD measurements) of natural heavy metal degrader Rhodotorula mucilaginosa, determination of nutrients (spectrophotometrically), physico-chemical parameters, and removal capacity of lead and cadmium ions (via inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry—ICP-MS). The antimicrobial and anti-adherence activities of 20 mg/mL and 40 mg/mL of the biosurfactant against pathogenic Candida krusei strains involved growth observations and the crystal violet microtiter method. The DCPIP decolorization occurred after six days, corresponding to the maximum growth phase of the Y. lipolytica culture. After 72 h, the cells presented high hydrophobicity (82.61% MATH) and stable biosurfactant production (E24% 47%). The crude biosurfactant (5%) increased the growth of R. mucilaginosa strains cultivated on synthetic wastewater cultures contaminated with Pb2+ and Cd2+, increased the conductivity and COD (86%) of the samples, and determined Pb2+ (66%) and Cd2+ (42%) ions reduction. The concentrated biosurfactant inhibited C. krusei growth (70%) and biofilm adherence. In conclusion, Y. lipolytica CMGB32 shows important potential for development of biosurfactant-based technologies for the remediation of heavy-metal- and emerging pathogen-contaminated wastewaters.
Characteristics of Vehicle Tire and Road Wear Particles’ Size Distribution and Influencing Factors Examined via Laboratory Test
Authors: Zhong Chongzhi , Sun Jiaxing , Zhang Jing , Liu Zishu , Fang Tiange , Liang Xiaoyu , Yin Jiawei , Peng Jianfei , Wu Lin , Zhang Qijun , Mao Hongjun
Published: April 2024

With the implementation of strict emission regulations and the use of cleaner fuels, there has been a considerable reduction in exhaust emissions. However, the relative contribution of tire wear particles (TWPs) to particulate matters is expected to gradually increase. This study conducted laboratory wear experiments on tires equipped on domestically popular vehicle models, testing the factors and particle size distribution of TWPs. The results showed that the content of tire wear particle emission was mainly ultrafine particles, accounting for 94.80% of particles ranging from 6 nm to 10 μm. There were at least two concentration peaks for each test condition and sample, at 10~13 nm and 23~41 nm, respectively. The mass of TWP emission was mainly composed of fine particles and coarse particles, with concentration peaks at 0.5 μm and 1.3–2.5 μm, respectively. Both the number and mass of TWPs exhibited a bimodal distribution, with significant differences in emission intensity among different tire samples. However, there was a good exponential relationship between PM10 mass emissions from tire wear and tire camber angle. The orthogonal experimental results showed that the slip angle showed the greatest impact on TWP emission, followed by speed and load, with the smallest impact from inclination angle.
Smartphone-Based Color Evaluation of Passive Samplers for Gases: A Review
Authors: Kiwfo Kanokwan , Grudpan Kate , Held Andreas , Frenzel Wolfgang
Published: April 2024

The application of smartphone-based color evaluation of passive sampling devices for gases has only been sparsely reported. The present review aims to compile available publications with respect to the configuration of the passive samplers, conditions of smartphone photographing, analytical procedures for color detection and quantification (including calibration processes), and their application to different target gases. The performance of the methods—whenever available—is presented regarding the analytical specifications selectivity, sensitivity, and limit of detection in comparison with other color evaluation methods of passive samplers. Practical aspects like requirements of instrumentation and ease of use will be outlined in view of the potential employment in education and citizen science projects. In one section of the review, the inconsistent terminology of passive and diffusive sampling is discussed in order to clarify the distinction of information obtained from the uptake of the passive samplers between gas-phase concentration and the accumulated deposition flux of gaseous analytes. Colorimetric gas sensors are included in the review when applied in passive sampling configurations and evaluation is performed with smartphone-based color evaluation. Differences in the analytical procedures employed after the passive sampling step and prior to the detection of the colored compounds are also presented.
Boundary Value Problems for the Perturbed Dirac Equation
Authors: Yuan Hongfen , Shi Guohong , Hu Xiushen
Published: April 2024

The perturbed Dirac operators yield a factorization for the well-known Helmholtz equation. In this paper, using the fundamental solution for the perturbed Dirac operator, we define Cauchy-type integral operators (singular integral operators with a Cauchy kernel). With the help of these operators, we investigate generalized Riemann and Dirichlet problems for the perturbed Dirac equation which is a higher-dimensional generalization of a Vekua-type equation. Furthermore, applying the generalized Cauchy-type integral operator F˜λ, we construct the Mann iterative sequence and prove that the iterative sequence strongly converges to the fixed point of operator F˜λ.