bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cycling into Sustainability: Lessons from the Netherlands for Slovenia’s E-Bike Adoption
Authors: Gričar Sergej , Longar Urška , Longar Tanja , Šugar Violeta
Published: November 2024

This study investigates whether Slovenia can learn from the Netherlands to enhance its bicycle commuting culture and how e-bikes can improve cycling performance among its residents. The research utilises secondary data from the Statistical Office of the Republic of Slovenia and Statista, covering variables such as bicycle sales, gross domestic product, and urbanisation rates from 1997 to 2024. The data are analysed using Vector Auto Regression (VAR). The results reveal that urbanisation positively influences both traditional and e-bike demand, highlighting the importance of improved cycling infrastructure. However, GDP negatively impacts bike demand, suggesting affordability issues that could hinder adoption without financial support. These findings indicate that e-bikes play a transformative role, particularly in overcoming Slovenia’s hilly terrain and long-distance commuting barriers, with evidence of substitution effects between traditional bicycles and e-bikes. Lessons from the Netherlands emphasise the integration of cycling with public transport, financial incentives, and cultural promotion of cycling. Slovenia’s growing e-bike market signals a promising shift towards sustainable mobility, but strategic investments in infrastructure and policies are crucial.
Effects of Smart Farming on the Productivity of Korean Dairy Farms: A Case Study of Robotic Milking Systems
Authors: Lee Yong-Geon , Han Kwideok , Chung Chanjin , Ji Inbae
Published: November 2024

The Korean agricultural sector faces increasing challenges such as an aging population, labor shortages, and the liberalization of agricultural markets. To overcome these challenges, the Korean government has striven to enhance the competitiveness of agriculture by introducing AI-based technologies to the agricultural sector, labeling this as smart farming. This study estimates farm-level benefits of adopting smart farming technologies, robotic milking systems, in Korean dairy farms. The benefits are estimated by comparing the productivity (i.e., the savings of labor input, increased calf production, and increased milk production) of adopting and non-adopting farms. Our study uses the propensity score matching method to address potential problems from confounding factors, sample selection bias, and the small number of adopters. Our results show that farms that adopted robotic milking systems produced 0.10 to 0.11 more calves per year than farms that did not adopt the system. The adopters also increased milk production by 2.44 kg to 2.88 kg per head/day, while reducing labor input by 0.15 to 0.30 per head/week. However, the reduced labor input was not statistically significant. When the analysis was extended to regard the farm characteristics, the labor input became significant from small and family-run farms. We also found that the increase in the number of calves produced per head was statically significant from small farms, family-run farms, and farms with successors. The increased milk production per head was statistically significant from large farms, farms employing hired workers, and farms with successors. Our findings suggest that the Korean government continue promoting smart farming technologies such as the robotic milking system to increase the adoption rate. The findings can also provide useful information about target markets of this technology, which can be used to increase the adoption rate and ultimately enhance the sustainability and competitiveness of the Korean dairy industry.
Multiscale Effects of Slash-and-Burn Agriculture Across the Tropics: Implications for the Sustainability of an Ancestral Agroecosystem
Authors: Bezerra Jakelyne S. , Arroyo-Rodríguez Víctor , Arasa-Gisbert Ricard , Meave Jorge A.
Published: November 2024

Slash-and-burn agriculture (SBA) is critical to maintaining rural peoples’ livelihoods. Yet, it causes environmental degradations that challenge its sustainability. Such degradations are often underestimated, as they are usually assessed at the local (stand) scale, overlooking larger-scale impacts. Here, we drew upon existing SBA and landscape ecology knowledge to assess the multiscale abiotic and biotic effects of SBA. This agroecosystem involves four stages (slashing of vegetation, burning of vegetation, farming, and forest recovery) but the SBA research is biased towards biotic impacts, especially during forest recovery. Despite its importance for key abiotic (e.g., soil fertility) and biotic (e.g., species richness) attribute recovery, this stage is typically too short (<10 years) to compensate for the environmental degradation caused by the previous stages. Successional and landscape ecology theory suggests that such compensatory dynamics can promote SBA sustainability in landscapes dominated by old-growth forests. Yet, when old-growth forest loss exceeds certain boundaries, abiotic and biotic SBA impacts may compromise the conservation value and sustainability of this ancient agroecosystem. We highlight that SBA sustainability should be comprehensively assessed by including landscape-scale variables (e.g., percent old-growth forest cover) that may be key for maintaining biodiversity patterns and processes in landscapes where SBA is practiced.
A Systematic Literature Review on Technological Innovation in the Wine Tourism Industry: Insights and Perspectives
Authors: Piras Francesco
Published: November 2024

This study comprises a systematic literature review of 68 articles published between 2010 and 2024, identifying and coherently grouping the wine tourism sector’s adoption of technological innovation practices. The articles were analyzed using a framework developed from the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). The selection criteria included peer-reviewed, full-length articles in English emphasizing technological innovations in the wine tourism sector. The results highlight several key trends in technological innovation applied to wine tourism. The innovations were categorized into five areas: digital marketing and promotion, sustainability and innovation, immersive technologies (AR/VR), e-commerce and distribution models, and smart technologies for winery management. The review reveals a growing interest in digital marketing and immersive technologies in promoting wine tourism through digital platforms and creating engaging tourist experiences through virtual and augmented reality. The review focuses only on peer-reviewed studies published in English, which may limit its global scope. Books and non-peer-reviewed articles may have introduced further developments in technological innovation that are not captured in this review. This study is a post-COVID-19 review of technological innovation in wine tourism. The findings provide significant implications for researchers and policymakers, suggesting future research areas and offering insights on how public funds can support wine tourism’s digital transformation and sustainability
Olfactory Profile and Stochastic Analysis: An Innovative Approach for Predicting the Physicochemical Characteristics of Recycled Waste Cooking Oils for Sustainable Biodiesel Production
Authors: Carvalho Suelen Conceição de , Silva Maryana Mathias Costa , Siqueira Adriano Francisco , Melo Mariana Pereira de , Giordani Domingos Sávio , Senra Tatiane de Oliveira Souza , Ferreira Ana Lucia Gabas
Published: November 2024

The efficient, economical, and sustainable production of biodiesel from waste cooking oils (WCOs) depends on the availability of simple, rapid, and low-cost methods to test the quality of potential feedstocks. The aim of this study was to establish the applicability of stochastic modeling of e-nose profiles in the evaluation of recycled WCO characteristics. Olfactory profiles of 10 WCOs were determined using a Sensigent Cyranose® 320 chemical vapor-sensing device with a 32 sensor-array, and a stepwise multiple linear regression (MLR) analysis was performed to select stochastic parameters (explanatory variables) for inclusion in the final predictive models of the physicochemical properties of the WCOs. The most important model parameters for the characterization of WCOs were those relating to the time of inception of the e-nose signal “plateau” and to the concentration of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the sensor region. A comparison of acid values, peroxide values, water contents, and kinematic viscosities predicted by the MLR models with those determined by conventional laboratory methods revealed that goodness of fit and predictor accuracy varied from good to excellent, with all metric values >90%. Combining e-nose profiling with stochastic modeling was successful in predicting the physicochemical characteristics of WCOs and could be used to select suitable raw materials for efficient and sustainable biodiesel production.
Highly Reproducible Automated Tip Coater for In Situ and Operando EC-STM Measurements
Authors: Kurczak Robert , Wira Paulina , Futyma Anna , Wasielewski Radosław , Kosmala Tomasz
Published: November 2024

High-quality, reproducible tip coatings are essential for minimizing faradaic currents in electrochemical scanning tunneling microscopy (EC-STM), especially during in situ and operando measurements. The variability inherent in manual coating methods, influenced by the operator’s skill and a lack of standardization, can lead to inconsistent results, increased research costs, and a greater workload. This study introduces an Automated Tip Coater (ATC) designed to automate and standardize the tip coating process. The ATC features a tip movement system using stepper motors, a rotation module with a DC motor, and a heating block based on a soldering iron. It is controlled by an Arduino development board, supported by motor drivers, and has a user-friendly interface with an OLED display and encoder. The ATC coating mechanism includes a redesigned plate with a reduced gap size and a milled tray to precisely control the amount of insulating material applied to the tip. A fast cyclic voltammetry test in a 0.1 M HClO4 electrolyte demonstrated that over 75% of ATC-coated tips achieved excellent insulation with leakage currents below ±50 pA—and 30% below ±10 pA—suitable for highly sensitive experiments. Further measurements with EC-STM using the newly coated tips investigated the electrochemical behavior of highly oriented pyrolytic graphite (HOPG), revealing detailed atomic structures under dynamic electrochemical conditions. The ATC significantly enhances reproducibility, reduces dependency on operator skills, and lowers research costs while improving the accuracy and reliability of EC-STM measurements.
Timing of Surgery and Safety Strategies in Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: Results from a 2-Year Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Liepa Linda , Milani Marika Sharmayne , Fabbi Manrica , Bardelli Laura , Coriele Silvia , Pappalardo Vincenzo , Pavesi Franco , Rocchi Paolo Angelo , Reggiori Alberto , Rausei Stefano
Published: November 2024

Background: The gold standard treatment of acute cholecystitis is early laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC), as indicated in the Tokyo Guidelines (TG). However, the definition of “early” is still unclear. In 2013, TG suggested surgical intervention within 72 h from the onset of the symptoms; however, according to the 2018 revision, LC must be performed as soon as possible, regardless of symptom onset. Therefore, the optimal timing for surgery is still debated. In order to avoid any complications, surgeons need to know all the surgical strategies for safety in case of a difficult cholecystectomy. Methods and Materials: Starting from January 2023 at Cittiglio Hospital (Italy), the following strategies were implemented: LC within 72 h from the onset of symptoms, systematic intraoperative use of indocyanine green fluorescence cholangiography, systematic identification of the Critical View of Safety (CVS), and subtotal cholecystectomy when the CVS was impossible to identify. We retrospectively analyzed a cohort of patients who underwent LC in our surgical department, subdividing them into two groups: Group 1 (G1) included patients operated on in 2022, and Group 2 (G2) included patients operated on in 2023. End points were length of stay and in-hospital postoperative complications, with particular interest in biliary duct injury. Results: Overall, 210 LC have been performed (97 in G1 and 113 in G2). After the introduction of the new safety strategy, the median length of stay (3 days in G1 vs. 2 in G2), BDI rate (2 in G1 vs. 0 in G2), and conversion rate to open procedure (5 in G1 vs. 1 in G2) were decreased. Conclusions: Our data are promising, highlighting that LC with the standardization of new safety strategies, especially in case of acute cholecystitis, immediately improves surgical outcomes in terms of length of stay and complications.
Generalized Galilean Rotations
Authors: Çolakoğlu Harun Barış , Öztürk İskender , Çelik Oğuzhan , Özdemir Mustafa
Published: November 2024

In this article, we give rotational motions on any straight line or any parabola in a scalar product space. To achieve this goal, we first define the generalized Galilean scalar product and determine the generalized Galilean skew symmetric and orthogonal matrices. Then, using the well-known Rodrigues, Cayley, and Householder maps, we produce the generalized Galilean rotation matrices. Finally, we show that these rotation matrices can also be used to determine parabolic rotational motion.
Structural Evaluation of Interleukin-19 Cytokine and Interleukin-19-Bound Receptor Complex Using Computational Immuno-Engineering Approach
Authors: Roy Urmi
Published: November 2024

Interleukin 19 (IL-19) is an anti-inflammatory cytokine that belongs to the IL-10 family, where IL-20 and IL-24 also exist. While IL-19 and IL-20 share some comparable structural folds, there are certain structural divergences in their N-terminal ends. To date, there are no reported IL-19 receptors; although, it has been suggested in the literature that IL-19 would bind to lL-20 receptor (IL-20R) and trigger the JAK-STAT signaling pathways. The present report examines the structure of the IL-19 cytokine and its receptor complex using a computational approach. Specifically, the postulated modes of interactions for IL-20R as an IL-19 receptor are examined on the basis of a set of computational findings. The author has used molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation to generate a 3D model for the IL-19 complex with IL-20R. When a protein’s crystal structure is not available in the literature, predictive modeling is often employed to determine the protein’s 3D structure. The model assessment can be based on various factors, which include stability analysis using RMSD calculations, tracking changes in time-based secondary structures and the associated Gibbs energies, ΔG. Since one model complex (referred to as model A throughout this paper) can be used as a working hypothesis for future experiments, this structure has been explored here in detail to check its stability, subunit interfaces, and binding residues. The information gathered in this approach can potentially help to design specific experiments to test the validity of the model protein structure. Additionally, the results of this research should be relevant for understanding anti-inflammatory mechanisms and, eventually, could contribute to the efforts for therapeutic developments and targeted therapy.
Unveiling the Role of New Molecules in Acute Myeloid Leukemia: Insights into Disease Pathogenesis and Therapeutic Potential
Authors: Martinez Diana , Santoro Nicole , Paviglianiti Annalisa
Published: November 2024

This review article explores the current landscape of acute myeloid leukemia treatment, including novel target molecules and recent advancements in cell therapy and immunotherapy focused on T cell activity. Advances in treatment have been promising in recent years, driven by the development of therapies targeting new molecular and genetic therapeutic targets. These findings allowed for the approval of several target therapies by the European and American drug agencies in the last 5 years. However, mortality remains very high, particularly in relapsed or refractory (R/R) patients. In recent years, the development of immunotherapy has expanded this field, leading to the introduction of new drugs and treatments.
Renal Collecting System Calcified Hematoma Following Parenchymal Perforation by Ureteral Stent in Kidney Transplantation: A Case Report
Authors: Herrera Octavio , Garza Alexis , Rodriguez Maria Veronica , De Jesus-Escano Manuel , Serna Samuel , Almeda Jose , Olgin Gaudencio
Published: November 2024

Introduction: Renal parenchymal perforation by ureteral stent placement is a rare but serious complication. There is also a paucity of data regarding collecting system hematomas and potential calcification in renal allografts. Case presentation: We report a unique case of a 51-year-old male who underwent unrelated living-donor kidney transplantation with stent incorporation during ureteroneocystostomy. Post-operatively he was found to have renal parenchymal perforation by the ureteral stent resulting in a pelvicalyceal hematoma with subsequent calcification and obstruction. At the time of guidewire introduction for percutaneous nephrolithotomy one year later, a nephrostogram and passage of a hydrophilic guidewire resulted in improved contrast drainage into the bladder, so the invasive surgery was no longer needed. Discussion: There are few reported cases of renal parenchymal perforation by a ureteral stent, none of which resulted in a collecting system hematoma. The calcification of urinary tract hematomas is also rare and attributed to metabolic abnormalities, prolonged stagnation of blood, and infection. Conclusions: We suspect the nephrostogram and guidewire introduction created enough antegrade pressure and mechanical disruption to force the calcified hematoma into the bladder.
Unlocking Blended Emotions and Underlying Drivers: A Deep Dive into COVID-19 Vaccination Insights on Twitter Across Digital and Physical Realms in New York, Using ChatGPT
Authors: Yin Li , Han Mo , Nie Xuanyi
Published: November 2024

The conclusions drawn from commonly used topic modeling and sentiment analysis of COVID-19 vaccination discussions on social media often hinge on researchers’ interpretation. These methods inadequately capture the nuanced real-world human emotions and struggle with identifying sarcasm and handling mixed sentiments. This study uses OpenAI API and its Large Language Models (LLM) to analyze tweets to further the discussion on improving vaccination literacy and fostering public trust. We employed LLM to uncover underlying topics associated with non-polarized sentiments to understand public concerns and factors eroding public confidence in vaccination. In addition, the city and regional level analysis provides a more detailed breakdown of spatial differences in the physical realm. Our results showed a blend of positive sentiments toward COVID-19 vaccination in New York State, with an underlying sense of concern. Our topic analysis reveals that social media platforms, which facilitate personal experience sharing, can influence both vaccination acceptance and hesitancy in positive and negative ways. Our method was able to better capture the nuanced emotions of real-world individuals. This approach is less subjective and more consistent than traditional models as it employs ChatGPT’s extensive pre-trained databases instead of relying on individual researchers’ judgments.
Assessment of Bacteriophage Pharmacokinetic Parameters After Intra-Articular Delivery in a Rat Prosthetic Joint Infection Model
Authors: Young Jason , Shariyate Mohammad Javad , Misra Prateek , Laiwala Shubham , Nazarian Ara , Rodriguez Edward Kenneth
Published: November 2024

Prosthetic joint infections (PJIs) are a serious complication of orthopedic surgery. Bacteriophage (phage) therapy shows promise as an adjunctive treatment but requires further study, particularly in its pharmacokinetics. Consequently, we performed a pharmacokinetic assessment of phage therapy for PJIs using a Staphylococcus epidermidis Kirschner wire-based prosthesis rat model. We used 52 male Sprague–Dawley rats in four groups: negative controls (no phage, sterile implant), PJI controls (bacteria, no phage), sterile phage (phages given, sterile implant), and PJI (bacteria, phages given). The PJI groups were inoculated with ~106 CFU of S. epidermidis. The groups receiving phage were intra-articularly injected with ~108 PFU of vB_SepM_Alex five days post-implantation. The rats were euthanized between 30 min and 48 h post-injection. The measured phage concentrations between the PJI rats and the sterile controls in periarticular tissues were not significantly different. In a noncompartmental pharmacokinetic analysis, the estimated phage half-lives were under 6 h (combined: 3.73 [IQR, 1.45, 10.07]). The maximum phage concentrations were reached within 2 h after administration (combined: 0.75 [0.50, 1.75]). The estimated phage mean residence time was approximately three hours (combined: 3.04 [1.44, 4.19]). Our study provides a preliminary set of pharmacokinetic parameters that can inform future phage dosing studies and animal models of phage therapy for PJIs.
Chimeric Virus-like Particles of Physalis Mottle Virus as Carriers of M2e Peptides of Influenza a Virus
Authors: Blokhina Elena A. , Mardanova Eugenia S. , Zykova Anna A. , Shuklina Marina A. , Stepanova Liudmila A. , Tsybalova Liudmila M. , Ravin Nikolai V.
Published: November 2024

Plant viruses and virus-like particles (VLPs) are safe for mammals and can be used as a carrier/platform for the presentation of foreign antigens in vaccine development. The aim of this study was to use the coat protein (CP) of Physalis mottle virus (PhMV) as a carrier to display the extracellular domain of the transmembrane protein M2 of influenza A virus (M2e). M2e is a highly conserved antigen, but to induce an effective immune response it must be linked to an adjuvant or carrier VLP. Four tandem copies of M2e were either fused to the N-terminus of the full-length PhMV CP or replaced the 43 N-terminal amino acids of the PhMV CP. Only the first fusion protein was successfully expressed in Escherichia coli, where it self-assembled into spherical VLPs of about 30 nm in size. The particles were efficiently recognized by anti-M2e antibodies, indicating that the M2e peptides were exposed on the surface. Subcutaneous immunization of mice with VLPs carrying four copies of M2e induced high levels of M2e-specific IgG antibodies in serum and protected animals from a lethal influenza A virus challenge. Therefore, PhMV particles carrying M2e peptides may become useful research tools for the development of recombinant influenza vaccines.
Phylogenomic Signatures of a Lineage of Vesicular Stomatitis Indiana Virus Circulating During the 2019–2020 Epidemic in the United States
Authors: Zarate Selene , Bertram Miranda R. , Rodgers Case , Reed Kirsten , Pelzel-McCluskey Angela , Gomez-Romero Ninnet , Rodriguez Luis L. , Mayo Christie , Mire Chad , Pond Sergei L. Kosakovsky , Velazquez-Salinas Lauro
Published: November 2024

For the first time, we describe phylogenomic signatures of an epidemic lineage of vesicular stomatitis Indiana virus (VSIV). We applied multiple evolutionary analyses to a dataset of 87 full-length genome sequences representing the circulation of an epidemic VSIV lineage in the US between 2019 and 2020. Based on phylogenetic analyses, we predicted the ancestral relationship of this lineage with a specific group of isolates circulating in the endemic zone of Chiapas, Mexico. Subsequently, our findings indicate that the lineage diversified into at least four different subpopulations during its circulation in the US. We identified single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that differentiate viral subpopulations and assessed their potential relevance using comparative phylogenetic methods, highlighting the preponderance of synonymous mutations during the differentiation of these populations. Purifying selection was the main evolutionary force favoring the conservation of this epidemic phenotype, with P and G genes as the main drivers of the evolution of this lineage. Our analyses identified multiple codon sites under positive selection and the association of these sites with specific functional domains at P, M, G, and L proteins. Based on ancestral reconstruction analyses, we showed the potential relevance of some of the sites identified under positive selection to the adaptation of the epidemic lineage at the population level. Finally, using a representative group of viruses from Colorado, we established a positive correlation between genetic and geographical distances, suggesting that positive selection on specific codon positions might have favored the adaptation of different subpopulations to circulation in specific geographical settings. Collectively, our study reveals the complex dynamics that accompany the evolution of an epidemic lineage of VSIV in nature. Our analytical framework provides a model for conducting future evolutionary analyses. The ultimate goal is to support the implementation of an early warning system for vesicular stomatitis virus in the US, enabling early detection of epidemic precursors from Mexico.
Preliminary Study on Type I Interferon as a Mucosal Adjuvant for Human Respiratory Syncytial Virus F Protein
Authors: Hu Hongqiao , Zhang Li , Cao Lei , Jiang Jie , Shi Yuqing , Guo Hong , Wang Yang , Li Hai , Zhang Yan
Published: November 2024

Background: Human respiratory syncytial virus (HRSV) imposes a significant disease burden on infants and the elderly. Intranasal immunization using attenuated live vaccines and certain vector vaccines against HRSV has completed phase II clinical trials with good safety and efficacy.Recombinant protein vaccines for mucosal immunization require potent mucosal adjuvants. Type I interferon (IFN), as a natural mucosal adjuvant, significantly enhances antigen-presenting cell processing and antigen presentation, promoting the production of T and B cells. Methods: This study utilized human α2b interferon (IFN-human) and mouse α2 interferon (IFN-mouse) as nasal mucosal adjuvants in combination with fusion protein (F). Intranasal immunization was performed on BALB/c mice to evaluate the immunogenicity of the formulation in vivo. Results: Compared to the F protein immunization group, mice in the F + IFN-Human and F + IFN-Mouse experimental groups exhibited significantly increased neutralizing antibody titers and augmented secretion of IFN-γ and IL-4 by lymphocytes,  and both of them could induce the production of high-titer specific IgA antibodies in mice (p < 0.001).The F + IFN-Human immunization induced the highest IgG and IgG1 antibody titers in mice; however, the F + IFN-Mouse immunization group elicited the highest neutralizing antibody titers (598), lowest viral loads in the lungs (Ct value of 31), and fastest weight recovery in mice. Moreover, mice in the F + IFN-Mouse immunization group displayed the mildest lung pathological damage (Total score of pathological injury was 2). Conclusions: In conclusion, IFN-Mouse, as a mucosal adjuvant for HRSV recombinant protein vaccines, demonstrated superior protective effects in mice compared to IFN-Human adjuvants.
Association Between Influenza Vaccine and Immune Thrombocytopenia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Liu Zhicai , Wang Jing , Lu Zhaojun , Xu Yuyang , Du Jian , Han Jiayin , Zhang Xuechao , Liu Yan
Published: November 2024

Background: Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is an uncommon but serious adverse reaction after vaccination. However, its association with vaccines other than the measles–mumps–rubella vaccine remains debatable. This study aimed to analyze ITP cases following influenza vaccination and assess any potential association. Methods: We performed a systematic search of the Web of Science, Embase, and PubMed databases from their inception to 15 April 2024. Cases were characterized qualitatively, and relative risk was assessed using either fixed or random models. Results: A total of 24 studies were analyzed, including 16 patients from 14 case reports. Patients averaged 56.7 years old, half were female, and ten patients had a history of prior illness. The mean time between vaccination and diagnosis was 13.3 days. Treatment primarily involved corticosteroids or intravenous immunoglobulin, with most recovering within a month. The pooled odds ratio for ITP post-influenza vaccination was 0.94 (95%CI: 0.85–1.03). Subgroup analyses conducted according to the study design and vaccine type did not reveal any significant results. Conclusion: No evidence of an association between influenza vaccination and ITP was found. Further observational studies are required to verify this relationship.
Helminthofauna Diversity in Synanthropic Rodents of the Emilia-Romagna Region (Italy): Implications for Public Health and Rodent Control
Authors: Dini Filippo Maria , Mazzoni Tondi Carlotta , Galuppi Roberta
Published: November 2024

Synanthropic rodents are species well adapted to coexisting in anthropogenically influenced environments. This coexistence raises concerns about the potential risks of pathogen’s transmission due to their close proximity to human habitats. This study presents an epidemiological survey of the gastrointestinal helminth fauna in synanthropic rodents (Mus musculus, Rattus rattus, and Rattus norvegicus) from the Emilia-Romagna Region (Italy), aiming to provide updated data on the endoparasitic populations in these species. A total of 111 rodents, sampled from 2019 to 2021 during pest control programs, were examined for parasitic infections. Helminths were extracted through necropsy and microscopic analysis of gastrointestinal tracts and sediment, with species identification based on morphological characteristics. Overall, 72.1% of the rodents were found to be parasitized, with nematodes being the most prevalent. Syphacia muris, Aspiculuris tetraptera, Nippostrongylus brasiliensis, and Heterakis spumosa were the most frequently identified nematodes. Tapeworms, including Rodentolepis nana and Hymenolepis diminuta, were also detected, albeit in lower frequencies. The trematode Brachylaima recurva was recovered only in one R. rattus. Co-infection was common, particularly among rats, with 51.8% of black rats and 22% of brown rats harboring multiple parasitic species. Mice exhibited lower levels of polyparasitism, with only two individuals showing mixed infections. Interestingly, disparities between the detection of adult helminths and parasitic eggs were noted, especially in cases where no adults were observed, but eggs were found through sediment analysis. These findings suggest that traditional necropsy, especially with poorly preserved carcasses, may underestimate parasite prevalence. This highlights the importance of combining necropsy with microscopic techniques, such as flotation and sedimentation, for a more thorough assessment. Using these methods, nematodes with direct life cycles, such as Syphacia spp., Nippostrongylus brasiliensis, and Heterakis spumosa, have been confirmed as widespread and cosmopolitan among rodent populations. The detection of zoonotic parasites raises concerns about potential transmission to humans, particularly in areas with poor sanitation and high rodent densities. These findings underscore the need for integrated rodent control and environmental sanitation to reduce zoonotic risks.
Action of Low-Density Polyethylene Microspheres in the Transport of Metformin Hydrochloride in Aqueous Medium Through Adsorption and Desorption
Authors: Guimarães Luanna Gláucia , Cuba Renata Medici Frayne , Teran Francisco Javier Cuba
Published: November 2024

The present study addresses the issue of transporting pharmaceuticals via microplastics in aquatic environments. For this purpose, the adsorption and desorption of metformin hydrochloride (MET), a hydrophilic compound, on polyethylene microspheres (PMEs) were studied via batch adsorption and desorption capacity and kinetics tests. The adsorption test results indicated minimal influence of pH values above 5, alongside a decrease in adsorption capacity with an increasing mass of PMEs. The Freundlich model best represented the adsorption capacity data; however, values of n < 1 (0.6) and low K suggest a decrease in the sorption affinity of MET with increasing initial MET concentration and a low affinity of MET for PM beads. The rate and equilibrium of adsorption were fast, and the results adequately fit the pseudo-first- and pseudo-second-order models, suggesting that physical and chemical mechanisms contributed to the adsorption of MET onto the PEMs under the conditions of this study. The desorption equilibrium result was 1.3 mg g−1 ± 0.04 mg g−1, without significant change, regardless of the initial amount of adsorbed MET. However, the desorption percentage varied between 26.14% and 7.01% as a function of the amount. of MET adsorbed onto the PMEs. These results suggest that PMEs could be potential vectors of MET transport in aquatic environments.
Morphometric Characterization and Dual Analysis for Flash Flood Hazard Assessment of Wadi Al-Lith Watershed, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Bashir Bashar , Alsalman Abdullah
Published: November 2024

Flash floods are one of the most hazardous natural events globally, characterized by their rapid onset and unpredictability, often overwhelming emergency preparedness and response systems. In the arid environment of Saudi Arabia, Wadi Al-Lith watershed is particularly prone to flash floods, exacerbated by sudden storms and the region’s distinct topographical features. This study focuses on the morphometric characterization and comparative analysis of flash flood risk within the Wadi Al-Lith basin. To assess flood susceptibility, two widely adopted methodologies were employed: the morphometric ranking approach and El-Shamy’s method. A 12.5-m resolution ALOS PALSAR digital elevation model (DEM) was used to delineate the watershed and generate a detailed drainage network via Arc-Hydro tools in the ArcGIS 10.4 software. Fifteen morphometric parameters were analyzed to determine their influence on flood potential and hazard prioritization. The findings of this study provide crucial insights for regional flood risk management, offering an improved understanding of flash flood dynamics and assisting in developing effective mitigation strategies for Wadi Al-Lith and similar environments. The findings reveal that Wadi Al-Lith comprises multiple sub-catchments with varying degrees of vulnerability to flash flooding. According to the morphometric hazard analysis (MHA), certain sub-catchments, including sc-2, sc-4, sc-5, sc-6, sc-10, sc-12, sc-13, and sc-15, emerge as highly susceptible to flood hazards, while others (sc-1 and sc-9) fall into moderate risk categories. In contrast, the application of El-Shamy’s method provides a different ranking of flood risks across the watershed’s sub-catchments, offering a comparative view of flood susceptibility. The insights gained from this dual-analysis approach are expected to support the development of targeted flood prevention and mitigation strategies, which are essential for minimizing the future impacts of flash flooding in the Wadi Al-Lith watershed and ensuring better preparedness for local communities.
Impacts of Drought Severity and Frequency on Natural Vegetation Across Iran
Authors: Torkaman Pary Atefeh , Rastgoo Pejvak , Opp Christian , Zeuss Dirk , Abera Temesgen Alemayehu
Published: November 2024

Drought recurrence is increasing in arid and semi-arid regions, and its effects are becoming more complicated due to climate change. Despite the increasing frequency of drought events, the sensitivity of natural vegetation to different levels of drought frequency and severity is not fully understood. Here, we aim to characterize the regional spatio-temporal patterns of drought frequency and severity and the response of vegetation across Iran at a high spatial resolution (5 km × 5 km). We examined the responses of three natural vegetation types (forest, grassland, and shrubland) to drought conditions across Iran using the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and the Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI) at different time scales and temporal lags from 2001 to 2022. Our results showed that drought severity increased in 15%, decreased in 1%, and remained stable in 84% of the study area. The severity and frequency of drought showed spatial patterns across Iran (i.e., increased from northwest to southeast and central Iran). The correlation between the monthly NDVI anomaly and SPEI varied across vegetation types, SPEI accumulation period (SPEI-1-3-6-9-12), and temporal lags, revealing different sensitivities of vegetation to drought in Iran. All natural vegetation types showed the strongest responses two months after drought events. Forests, mostly located in northern Iran, showed lower sensitivity to drought onset and responded slower to drought severity than other vegetation classes (i.e., grasslands and shrublands). These findings highlight the importance of analyzing the sensitivity of natural vegetation at different levels of drought severity and frequency for land use planning and mitigation efforts.
Adaptive Second-Order Sliding Mode Wheel Slip Control for Electric Vehicles with In-Wheel Motors
Authors: Bi Jinghao , Han Yaozhen , Hou Mingdong , Wang Changshun
Published: November 2024

The influence of the external environment can reduce the braking performance of the electric vehicle (EV) with in-wheel motors (IWM). In this paper, an adaptive sliding mode wheel slip control method with a vehicle speed observer consideration is proposed, which enables the EV to accurately track the optimal slip ratio in various environments and improve braking performance. First, the braking system dynamics model is established by taking the EV with IWM as the study object. Second, a super-twisting sliding mode observer is used to estimate the vehicle speed, and a new adaptive second-order sliding mode controller is constructed to control the braking torque. Finally, co-simulation experiments are performed under different conditions based on Carsim and MATLAB/Simulink, and the proposed scheme is validated by comparison with three control methods. The experimental results show that the proposed scheme has better control performance, and both the safety and control quality of the EV is improved.
Transnationalism and Hegemonic Masculinity: Experiences of Gender-Based Violence Among African Women Immigrants in Canada
Authors: Onyango Elizabeth , Olukotun Mary , Olanrewaju Faith , Kapfunde Dayirai , Chinedu-Asogwa Nkechinyere , Salami Bukola
Published: November 2024

Gender-based violence (GBV) is an age-long issue plaguing societies all over the globe. Over the years, GBV perpetrated against women has been justified and legitimized by patriarchal and hegemonic masculine structures. This study explored the role of hegemonic masculinities and transnational cultural conflicts in creating a suitable environment for GBV against women newcomers from the continent of Africa. The study gathered perspectives of African immigrants and of the service providers working in immigrant-serving organizations. The paper adopts a qualitative approach and hinges on the transnationalism framework. This framework argues that immigrants maintain connections while transitioning to their destination countries. In such processes, immigrants carry with them their beliefs about cultural norms and hegemonic masculinity, of their country of origin. A total of 13 women immigrants and 20 service providers were purposively recruited to participate in the semi-structured interview. The interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. The data were analyzed thematically and organized using Nvivo version 12. Findings show that African immigrant women in Canada disproportionately bear the burden of GBV due to hegemonic masculinities. The construction of masculinity in immigrant populations is heavily reliant on the communities of origin. As such, the prevailing systems during and post migration such as—unstable residency status, fear of deportation, fear of social and family sanctions and stigmatization, economic dependence on their spouses, and fear of retaliation from their spouses creates an environment that supports toxic masculinity. The study recommends comprehensive and culturally sensitive programmes and services to support African immigrants affected by hegemonic masculinity and GBV.
Clinical decision making and risk appraisal using electronic risk assessment tools (eRATs) for cancer diagnosis: A qualitative study of GP experiences
Authors: Burns Alex , Fletcher Emily , Shephard Elizabeth , Calitri Raff , Tarrant Mark , Mercer Adrian , Hamilton William , Dean Sarah
Published: November 2024

Background

Electronic Risk Assessment Tools (eRATs) are intended to improve early primary care cancer diagnosis. eRATs which interrupt a consultation to suggest a possibility of a cancer diagnosis, could impact clinical appraisal and the experience of the consultation. This study explores this issue using data collected within the context of the ERICA trial.

Aim

To explore experiences of General Practitioners (GPs) who used the ERICA eRATs, and how the tool impacted their perception of risk and diagnostic thinking, and communication of this to patients.

Design & setting

Qualitative interviews with GPs from English General Practices undertaking the ERICA trial.

Method

Participants were purposefully sampled from practices participating in the intervention arm of the ERICA trial. 18 GPs undertook semi-structured interviews via MS Teams. Thematic Analysis was used to explore their perspectives the impact of eRATs on consultations, diagnostic thinking related to cancer and other conditions, and how this information is communicated to patients.

Results

Three themes were developed: 1) eRATs were perceived as “Additional Armour”, offering a layer of protection against missing a cancer diagnosis, the defence coming at a cost of anxiety and complexity of consultation; 2) eRATs were seen as another actor in the consultation, separate from clinician and patient, and challenging GP autonomy; and 3) GPs were conflicted about whether the numerical eRAT outputs were helpful when communicating with patients.

Conclusion

eRATs are appreciated as a defence against missing a cancer diagnosis. This defence comes at a cost and challenges GP’s freedom in communication and decision making.
Ceramic bricks using pistachio shells as controlled porosity former
Authors: Quaranta Nancy , Caligaris Marta , Unsen Miguel , López Hugo , Pelozo Gisela , Cristóbal Adrián
Published: November 2024

The present work studies the use of pistachio shells as a porosity-forming raw material in the manufacture of ceramic bricks. It focuses on the characteristics of the ceramic pieces obtained with different residual biomass contents (from 5 to 20% by volume). The specimens were shaped by uniaxial pressure of 25 MPa, and then were treated at 950°C for 3h. Based on the results obtained it is possible to conclude that the use of this residual biomass, as a pore former in the ceramic industry is feasible. The proportion of added biomass that generates the best characteristics and properties in the final product is 10%. Up to this percentage of aggregate, ceramic pieces with very good macroscopic and microscopic characteristics are obtained, with porosity and flexural strength values that meet market requirements for this type of product. Optical microscopy technique has been used to carry out a detailed analysis of the shape and size of the formed pores, which is a specific objective of this work. It has been observed that for contents of 5 and 10% biomass, the shape of pores is similar to the shape of the particles of added pistachio shells, while for higher contents (15 and 20%) it is different with elongated characteristics. In relation with the size of the pores, at lower contents is around 60% of the original particles size, and for the higher percentages of biomass, they are larger, indicating that agglomerates of particles are formed and when combusted, produce that porosity characteristics.
Evaluating the reinforcements efficiency of sawdust and corncob wastes in structural concrete: A comprehensive review
Authors: Kilani Abiodun , Olubambi Ademilade , Ikotun Bolanle , Oladejo Oladipupo , Famodu Babatunde
Published: November 2024

Sawdust (SD) and Corncob (CC) wastes possess up to 89.4% and 83.03% pozzolanic properties with a high impact on the mechanical properties required for high concrete strength reinforcement respectively. Applications of SD and CC wastes in concrete increased the concrete workability by 8.75% and 27.9% respectively. In addition, the use of SD in concrete eased its aggregates’ compatibility rate by 4.4%. The consistency of cement paste with corncob ash (CCA) decreased with an increase in the percentage of CCA included. In addition, the final and initial setting times of paste with sawdust ash (SDA) decreased by 28.2% and 20% with increasing use in the percentage of SDA included, while that of CC increased with an increase in the percentage of CC. The densities of SDA-concrete and CCA – concrete observed were from 300 to 1800kg/m3 and 1998 kg/m3 to 2302kg/m3, and these were classified as lightweight concrete. The review showed that CCA had a high potential for increasing the concrete compressive strength by 34.5%. The blending of CC waste with other admixtures was observed to have increased concrete’s tensile properties by 3.9%. CC waste possessed high potential for composite tensile property enhancement up to 68%. The CCA-concrete’s flexural strength observed was low; the blending of CC with other admixtures has increased the concrete’s flexural strength. SDW-Concrete suggested to high temperature showed an increase in compressive strength until 6000C is reached, after 6000C, there was a reduction in strength. The CCA reduced concrete’s modulus of elasticity by 27%. From the X–ray result, quartz (SiO2) shows an essential and main mineralogical content of CCA. The concrete’s rate of water absorption increased by 74% with the inclusion of SD. The ANN model is efficient and possesses good features for CCA and SD – concrete models. In conclusion, SD and CC wastes possess a good potential for the enhancement of structural concrete, which can be processed into types of cement and concrete composites.
Performance of High Volume Fly Ash Concrete in Structural Applications
Authors: Kaura Puneet , Ojha P N , Singh Brijesh
Published: November 2024

Application of high volume fly ash concrete is still not advocated by construction fraternity due to lack of standardisation. In India, fly ash as a pozzolanic material can be used in manufacturing of Portland Pozzolana cement and composite cement with a maximum limit of 35%. Present study had been carried out at various percentages of fly ash and a detailed mechanical and durability study was conducted. In this paper, concrete mixes were designed at two water binder ratio with 30%, 35%, 40% and 50% fly ash content. Mechanical behaviour of concrete was studied through tests like compressive strength (at age of 1, 3, 7, 28, 56 and 90 days) and flexure strength (at an age of 7, 28 and 90 days). Durability aspect of high volume fly ash concrete mixes were determined through various test like RCPT, non-steady state chloride migration, bulk conductivity, accelerated carbonation etc. and comparison is made with control mixes (i.e. concrete made with OPC). Alkali silica reactivity (ASR) study was also carried out at 30%, 35%, 40% and 50% fly ash content using reactive aggregates. It was quite evident from test results that strength characteristics of high volume flyash concrete mix made with 50% flyash content was remarkably lower than that of all other concrete mixtures. High volume flyash concrete mix designed at 40% flyash content had shown exemplarily performance in comparison to other high volume flyash concrete mixes as well as control mixes. Flyash content was found to most significant parameter influencing rate of carbonation.