bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design of an Exploratory Experiment in Teaching for Engineering Education Accreditation: Fluoride Geochemical Simulation during Water–Rock Interactions under the Effect of Seawater Intrusion
Authors: Chen Qiao , Wang Xuewenyu , Yin Huiyong , Feng Jianguo
Published: August 2023

Engineering education is critical for the creation of a more sustainable world, and engineering education accreditation has become the current trend for reform in higher education worldwide. Traditional replication experiment-based teaching cannot meet the standards of engineering education accreditation, and integrating the ideas of engineering education accreditation into experimental teaching is an important aspect of practical teaching. Taking fluoride evolution simulation during water–rock interactions under the effect of seawater intrusion as an example, an exploratory experiment was designed with the idea of engineering education accreditation. The experiment concluded that leached fluoride increases with increasing ratios of seawater and brine water, NaCl levels, and NaHCO3 levels, but with decreasing CaCl2 levels, which confirms that seawater intrusion deeply affects fluoride evolution. The saturation index and Fourier Transform Infrared analyses indicate that Ca2+ restriction and exchange of F with O–H and Si–O–Si are responsible for fluoride leaching. The experiment was characterized by deeper theory, logicality, and openness, and was also multi-schematic and exploratory. Therefore, it is an ideal subject matter to develop an exploratory experiment. A reasonable teaching link was designed to integrate the ideas of engineering education accreditation. Students were required to creatively and personally devise an experimental design and an expansion to the experiment based on the given databases and other relevant literature and to cooperate and discuss in groups. The experiment not only integrates basic knowledge of water–rock interactions, but also cultivates the awareness of and ability to analyze and solve problems, innovative thinking, scientific literacy, and teamwork. Meanwhile, the experiment effectively supports the graduate requirements of various subjects, including Design/Development Solutions, Research, Applying Modern Tools, Individual and Teams, and Communication.
A Comprehensive Review on Machine Learning Techniques for Forecasting Wind Flow Pattern
Authors: Sri Preethaa K. R. , Muthuramalingam Akila , Natarajan Yuvaraj , Wadhwa Gitanjali , Ali Ahmed Abdi Yusuf
Published: August 2023

The wind is a crucial factor in various domains such as weather forecasting, the wind power industry, agriculture, structural health monitoring, and so on. The variability and unpredictable nature of the wind is a challenge faced by most wind-energy-based sectors. Several atmospheric and geographical factors influence wind characteristics. Many wind forecasting methods and tools have been introduced since early times. Wind forecasting can be carried out short-, medium-, and long-term. The uncertainty factors of the wind challenge the accuracy of techniques. This article brings the general background of physical, statistical, and intelligent approaches and their methods used to predict wind characteristics and their challenges—this work’s objective is to improve effective data-driven models for forecasting wind-power production. The investigation and listing of the effectiveness of improved machine learning models to estimate univariate wind-energy time-based data is crucially the prominent focus of this work. The performance of various ML predicting models was examined using ensemble learning (ES) models, such as boosted trees and bagged trees, Support Vector Regression (SVR) with distinctive kernels etc. Numerous neural networks have recently been constructed for forecasting wind speed and power due to artificial intelligence (AI) advancement. Based on the model summary, further directions for research and application developments can be planned.
Effective Digital Technology Enabling Automatic Recognition of Special-Type Marking of Expiry Dates
Authors: Abdulraheem Abdulkabir , Jung Im Y.
Published: August 2023

In this study, we present a machine-learning-based approach that focuses on the automatic retrieval of engraved expiry dates. We leverage generative adversarial networks by augmenting the dataset to enhance the classifier performance and propose a suitable convolutional neural network (CNN) model for this dataset referred to herein as the CNN for engraved digit (CNN-ED) model. Our evaluation encompasses a diverse range of supervised classifiers, including classic and deep learning models. Our proposed CNN-ED model remarkably achieves an exceptional accuracy, reaching a 99.88% peak with perfect precision for all digits. Our new model outperforms other CNN-based models in accuracy and precision. This work offers valuable insights into engraved digit recognition and provides potential implications for designing more accurate and efficient recognition models in various applications.
Influencing Factors of Drainage and Production and Quantitative Evaluation in Shale Gas Reservoirs
Authors: Xu Hao , Gu Tuan , Wu Shuangliang , Xu Shucan , Yu Xiang , Guo Xiaochao , Fan Tao , Zhou Desheng
Published: August 2023

As a transitional energy source, natural gas plays a crucial role in the energy transition. In the efficient development of shale gas, the drainage and production process, as an important link between hydraulic fracturing and production, determines the recovery rate of individual wells. To clarify the main controlling factors of shale gas drainage and production, provide strategies for classification, and improve the recovery rates of individual wells, a numerical simulation method was proposed to analyze the factors affecting drainage and production, and the VIKOR method was used for quantitative evaluation of the drainage and production effects. The research results showed that: (1) The study identified nine main controlling factors affecting drainage and production performance, including gas saturation, permeability, stress difference, burial depth, formation pressure, cumulative fracture volume, final fracture loss rate, average final diversion ability, and wellbore liquid loading. (2) A workflow for quantitatively evaluating the drainage and production effectiveness of shallow shale gas wells and selecting wells with potential for optimized drainage and production was proposed. The correlation between the evaluation results and EUR fitting had an R2 value of 0.71, indicating a good level of credibility. (3) The evaluation results for the target gas field indicated that out of the 16 representative wells, 12 wells have optimization potential, with 5 wells showing significant optimization potential. Studying the rules of shale gas drainage and production and evaluating the drainage and production effects can help us to propose refined drainage and production strategies, which are essential for improving the estimated ultimate recovery (EUR).
Improved Hesitant Intuitionistic Fuzzy Linguistic Term Sets and Their Application in Group Decision-Making
Authors: Liu Chuyang , Peng You
Published: August 2023

Linguistic terms have proven to be more effective for DMs when defining complex and imprecise cognition. Consequently, a variety of novel linguistic models such as fuzzy linguistic approach, hesitant fuzzy linguistic term sets (HFLTSs), and hesitant intuitionistic fuzzy linguistic term sets (HIFLTSs) have been successively proposed. As HIFLTSs provide an effective and symmetrical technique for expressing qualitative decisions by decision-makers, they have attracted substantial scholarly interest. This paper proposes a series of new operational laws to address the current limitations and enhance the applicability and methodology of HIFLTSs. Additionally, we introduce a new score function and an accuracy function that both consider the degree of hesitancy, thus addressing the current shortcomings. Furthermore, the correlation measures and correlation coefficients are established to enrich the framework of the HIFLTSs theory. Finally, a MULTIMOORA approach in the HIFLTS environment is presented, which results in more robustness, simplicity, and effectiveness. A practical example is employed to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach, and a comparison with related works highlights the advantages and novelty of the proposed model.
A Proposed DEA Window Analysis for Assessing Efficiency from Asymmetry Dynamic Data
Authors: Al-Refaie Abbas , Lepkova Natalija
Published: August 2023

Nowadays, one of the main challenges facing production management is how to enhance the performance of manufacturing processes by utilizing asymmetry input and output data. This research, therefore, developed a framework for window analysis in data envelopment analysis (DEA) for evaluating the overall technical efficiencies from asymmetry dynamic input and output data. The framework was applied to assess the technical (TE), managerial (PTE), and scale (SE) efficiencies of a blowing machine under three fuzzy input variables (planned production quantity, number of defectives, and idle time) and a fuzzy output variable (actual or target production quantity). The efficiency measures were then evaluated for all DMUs at low (L), middle (M), and high (H) data levels. The obtained optimal fuzzy efficiencies were then transformed into a single crisp optimal efficiency. The results showed that all seven DMUs of the blowing machine were technically inefficient. The input and output slacks were estimated and utilized to determine the necessary improvement actions. Improvement results revealed that the optimal TE, PTE, and SE were significantly improved, which may result in significant savings in production and quality costs. In conclusion, the proposed framework is effective in improving the efficiency of the blowing process and can be utilized for efficiency assessment in a wide range of applications.
Method for Constructing a Commutative Algebra of Hypercomplex Numbers
Authors: Ibrayev Alpamys T.
Published: August 2023

Until now, it was believed that, unlike real and complex numbers, the construction of a commutative algebra of quaternions or octonions with division over the field of real numbers is impossible in principle. No one questioned the existing theoretical assertion that quaternions, octonions, and other hypercomplex numbers cannot have the commutativity property. This article demonstrates the following for the first time: (1) the possibility of constructing a normed commutative algebra of quaternions and octonions with division over the field of real numbers; (2) the possibility of constructing a normed commutative algebra of six-dimensional and ten-dimensional hypercomplex numbers with division over the field of real numbers; (3) a method for constructing a normed commutative algebra of N-dimensional hypercomplex numbers with division over the field of real numbers for even values of N; and (4) the possibility of constructing a normed commutative algebra of other N-dimensional hypercomplex numbers with division over the field of real numbers. The article also shows that when using specific forms of representation of unit vectors, the product of vectors has the property of commutativity. Normed commutative algebras of N-dimensional hypercomplex numbers can be widely used to solve many topical scientific problems in the field of theoretical physics for modeling force fields with various types of symmetry, in cryptography for developing a number of new cryptographic programs using hypercomplex number algebras with different values of dimension, and in many other areas of fundamental and applied sciences.
A Human-like Inverse Kinematics Algorithm of an Upper Limb Rehabilitation Exoskeleton
Authors: Pei Shuo , Wang Jiajia , Guo Junlong , Yin Hesheng , Yao Yufeng
Published: August 2023

Powered exoskeleton rehabilitation is an effective way to help stroke patients recover their motor abilities. Bionic structures and human-like control strategies can be used to enhance both the safety and efficacy of exoskeletons. However, the motion characteristics of the shoulder complex are not sufficiently considered. In this paper, we designed a 7-degrees-of-freedom (DOF) upper limb rehabilitation exoskeleton, FREE (functional rehabilitation exoskeleton). The mechanical structures of the shoulder and forearm of FREE are in accordance with human anatomy, and can be used to perform a wide range of synergistic motion of multiple joints while keeping a safe distance from the patient’s head. A multiple-input-multiple-output (MIMO) shoulder girdle motion prediction model was developed to satisfy the synergy between humans and exoskeletons. Moreover, a constrained task priority and projected gradient-based inverse kinematics algorithm (CTPPG-IK) was proposed to achieve assistance with scapulohumeral rhythm. A motion capture system was used to collect different activities of daily life (ADL) motion data to validate the proposed algorithm. The experimental results show that the accuracy of the prediction model is higher than that of existing models, and the inverse kinematics algorithm can handle the end-effector task and joint space with a maximum angle error of 3.04×10−3 rad.
Mefenamic Acid-Upregulated Nrf2/SQSTM1 Protects Hepatocytes against Oxidative Stress-Induced Cell Damage
Authors: Lee Wonseok , Mun Yewon , Lee Kang-Yo , Park Jung-Min , Chang Tong-Shin , Choi You-Jin , Lee Byung-Hoon
Published: August 2023

Mefenamic acid (MFA) is a commonly prescribed non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) with anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. MFA is known to have potent antioxidant properties and a neuroprotective effect against oxidative stress. However, its impact on the liver is unclear. This study aimed to elucidate the antioxidative effects of MFA and their underlying mechanisms. We observed that MFA treatment upregulated the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway. Treatment with various anthranilic acid derivative-class NSAIDs, including MFA, increased the expression of sequestosome 1 (SQSTM1) in HepG2 cells. MFA disrupted the interaction between Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1) and Nrf2, activating the Nrf2 signaling pathway. SQTM1 knockdown experiments revealed that the effect of MFA on the Nrf2 pathway was masked in the absence of SQSTM1. To assess the cytoprotective effect of MFA, we employed tert-Butyl hydroperoxide (tBHP) as a ROS inducer. Notably, MFA exhibited a protective effect against tBHP-induced cytotoxicity in HepG2 cells. This cytoprotective effect was abolished when SQSTM1 was knocked down, suggesting the involvement of SQSTM1 in mediating the protective effect of MFA against tBHP-induced toxicity. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that MFA exhibits cytoprotective effects by upregulating SQSTM1 and activating the Nrf2 pathway. These findings improve our understanding of the pharmacological actions of MFA and highlight its potential as a therapeutic agent for oxidative stress-related conditions.
Evaluating Silymarin Extract as a Potent Antioxidant Supplement in Diazinon-Exposed Rainbow Trout: Oxidative Stress and Biochemical Parameter Analysis
Authors: Banaee Mahdi , Impellitteri Federica , Multisanti Cristiana Roberta , Sureda Antoni , Arfuso Francesca , Piccione Giuseppe , Faggio Caterina
Published: August 2023

This study aimed to investigate the effects of diazinon on fish, focusing on hepatotoxic biomarkers and the potential protective effects of silymarin supplementation. One hundred eighty rainbow trout were randomly assigned to four groups: control, diazinon exposed (0.1 mg L−1), silymarin supplemented (400 mg kg−1), and diazinon + silymarin. Blood samples and liver tissue were collected after 7, 14, and 21 days of exposure to analyze biochemical parameters and oxidative biomarkers. Diazinon exposure in fish resulted in liver damage, as indicated by increased antioxidant enzyme activities in the hepatocytes. Silymarin showed the potential to mitigate this damage by reducing oxidative stress and restoring enzyme activities. Nevertheless, diazinon increased creatine phosphokinase activity, which may not be normalized by silymarin. Exposure to diazinon increased glucose, triglyceride, and cholesterol levels, whereas total protein, albumin, and globulin levels were significantly decreased in fish. However, silymarin controlled and maintained these levels within the normal range. Diazinon increased creatinine, urea, uric acid, and ammonia contents. Silymarin could regulate creatinine, urea, and uric acid levels while having limited effectiveness on ammonia excretion. Furthermore, diazinon increased malondialdehyde in hepatocytes, whereas administration of silymarin could restore normal malondialdehyde levels. Overall, silymarin showed potential as a therapeutic treatment for mitigating oxidative damage induced by diazinon in fish, but its effectiveness on creatine phosphokinase, glutathione reductase, and ammonia may be limited.
Effects of a Single Session of OnabotulinumtoxinA Therapy on Sleep Quality and Psychological Measures: Preliminary Findings in a Population of Chronic Migraineurs
Authors: Torrente Angelo , Alonge Paolo , Pilati Laura , Gagliardo Andrea , Vassallo Lavinia , Di Stefano Vincenzo , Lupica Antonino , Quartana Irene , Viticchi Giovanna , Silvestrini Mauro , Bartolini Marco , Camarda Cecilia , Brighina Filippo
Published: August 2023

Chronic migraine is a burdensome condition, and onabotulinumtoxinA is revealed to be an effective therapy. Migraine shows a bidirectional relationship with sleep, but the effects of preventive therapies on sleep quality are poorly studied. This study aims to evaluate the effects of a single session of onabotulinumtoxinA on patients’ sleep quality and correlates the results with measures of comorbid anxiety/depression. Patients completed self-administrable questionnaires about sleep quality (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index—PSQI) and psychological symptoms (Beck Depression Inventory, 2nd edition—BDI-II—and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale—HADS—subscales “a” and “d” for anxiety and depression, respectively), and reported migraine frequency at baseline and after 12 weeks. The 42 included patients showed a significant reduction in migraine days (from 20.6 ± 6.0 to 13.6 ± 6.2, p < 0.001), while no changes were observed in sleep quality (PSQI score from 11.0 ± 5.0 to 9.8 ± 4.6, p = 0.277) or psychological measures (BDI-II from 16.7 ± 10.2 to 15.7 ± 10.3, p = 0.678; HADS-a from 10.3 ± 4.8 to 9.3 ± 5.5, p = 0.492; and HADS-d from 7.2 ± 3.9 to 7.1 ± 5.0, p = 0.901). On the other hand, a strong correlation among PSQI, BDI-II, HADS-a, and HADS-d scores (p < 0.001, rho > 0.7) was found. Despite its efficacy in migraine prevention, a single session of onabotulinumtoxinA was not able to affect patients’ sleep quality or their psychological symptoms.
Effects of Algicidal Macrophyte Metabolites on Cyanobacteria, Microcystins, Other Plankton, and Fish in Microcosms
Authors: Kurbatova Svetlana , Berezina Nadezhda , Sharov Andrey , Chernova Ekaterina , Kurashov Evgeny , Krylova Yulia , Yershov Igor , Mavrin Alexander , Otyukova Natalia , Borisovskaya Elena , Fedorov Roman
Published: August 2023

To control harmful algae blooms (HABs), methods based on natural mechanisms are now required. We investigated the effects of an algicide derived from macrophyte metabolites, namely mixtures of gallic, tetradecanoic, heptanoic, and octanoic acids (1:1:1:1 mass ratio, a total concentration of 14 mg/L), on the biomass of cyanobacteria and other plankton and the production of microcystins under experimental conditions. Two types of microcosms have been created: simple (microalgae, cyanobacteria, and zooplankton) and complex (microalgae, cyanobacteria, zooplankton, and planktivorous fish). We observed the dynamics of the phytoplankton structure, the concentrations of microcystins and chlorophyll-a, hydrochemistry, and the status of zooplankton and fish in both types of microcosms with and without algicide for one month (from 19 July to 19 August 2021). The introduction of algicide caused changes in phytoplankton structure, a drop in cyanobacterial biomass, and a decrease in the total concentration of microcystins. Surprisingly, the contributions of the most toxic microcystins (LR form) were higher in both types of microcosms exposed to algicide than in microcosms without algicide. The inhibitory effect on the cyanobacterial biomass was most significant in complex ecosystems (containing fish), while it was only observed at the end of the exposure in simple ecosystems. Not only algicide but also phytoplankton consumed by fish and zooplankton, as well as nutrient excretory activity by both consumers, seem to have impact on cyanobacterial biomass. This study found that the using chemical substances similar to macrophyte metabolites can help regulate HABs and cyanotoxins. However, the results differ depending on ecosystem type.
Monitoring SARS-CoV-2 Seroprevalence in Domestics and Exotic Animals in Southern France
Authors: Tinto Bachirou , Revel Justine , Virolle Laurie , Chenet Baptiste , Reboul Salze Florence , Ortega Alix , Beltrame Marielle , Simonin Yannick
Published: August 2023

Since late 2019, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has emerged as a significant global threat to public health. Responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic, this new coronavirus has prompted extensive scientific research to comprehend its transmission dynamics, especially among humans. However, as our understanding deepens, it becomes increasingly clear that SARS-CoV-2’s impact goes beyond human populations. Recent investigations have illuminated the transmission of the virus between humans and various animal species, raising important questions about zoonotic spillover events and their potential implications for both human and animal health. Our study set out to investigate the prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 in domestic animals (dogs and cats) and zoo animals in the south of France in 2021 and 2022, covering pre-Omicron and Omicron waves. We identified evidence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies not only in domestic dogs and cats but also in several mammals in zoos. This study shows the importance of implementing surveillance measures, including serological studies, to identify and monitor cases of SARS-CoV-2 infection in animals.
Linear Stability Analysis of Relativistic Magnetized Jets: Methodology
Authors: Vlahakis Nektarios
Published: August 2023

The stability of astrophysical jets in the linear regime is investigated by presenting a methodology to find the growth rates of the various instabilities. We perturb a cylindrical axisymmetric steady jet, linearize the relativistic ideal magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) equations, and analyze the evolution of the eigenmodes of the perturbation by deriving the differential equations that need to be integrated, subject to the appropriate boundary conditions, in order to find the dispersion relation. We also apply the WKBJ approximation and, additionally, give analytical solutions in some subcases corresponding to unperturbed jets with constant bulk velocity along the symmetry axis.
Targeting FOXP3 Tumor-Intrinsic Effects Using Adenoviral Vectors in Experimental Breast Cancer
Authors: Nicola Candia Alejandro J. , Garcia Fallit Matías , Peña Agudelo Jorge A. , Pérez Küper Melanie , Gonzalez Nazareno , Moreno Ayala Mariela A. , De Simone Emilio , Giampaoli Carla , Casares Noelia , Seilicovich Adriana , Lasarte Juan José , Zanetti Flavia A. , Candolfi Marianela
Published: August 2023

The regulatory T cell master transcription factor, Forkhead box P3 (Foxp3), has been detected in cancer cells; however, its role in breast tumor pathogenesis remains controversial. Here we assessed Foxp3 tumor intrinsic effects in experimental breast cancer using a Foxp3 binder peptide (P60) that impairs Foxp3 nuclear translocation. Cisplatin upregulated Foxp3 expression in HER2+ and triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells. Foxp3 inhibition with P60 enhanced chemosensitivity and reduced cell survival and migration in human and murine breast tumor cells. We also developed an adenoviral vector encoding P60 (Ad.P60) that efficiently transduced breast tumor cells, reduced cell viability and migration, and improved the cytotoxic response to cisplatin. Conditioned medium from transduced breast tumor cells contained lower levels of IL-10 and improved the activation of splenic lymphocytes. Intratumoral administration of Ad.P60 in breast-tumor-bearing mice significantly reduced tumor infiltration of Tregs, delayed tumor growth, and inhibited the development of spontaneous lung metastases. Our results suggest that Foxp3 exerts protumoral intrinsic effects in breast cancer cells and that gene-therapy-mediated blockade of Foxp3 could constitute a therapeutic strategy to improve the response of these tumors to standard treatment.
Nuclease Activity of the Junín Virus Nucleoprotein C-Terminal Domain
Authors: Sierra Alicia Armella , Loureiro María Eugenia , Esperante Sebastián , Borkosky Silvia Susana , Gallo Giovanna L. , de Prat Gay Gonzalo , Lopez Nora
Published: August 2023

The mammarenavirus Junín (JUNV) is the causative agent of Argentine hemorrhagic fever, a severe disease of public health concern. The most abundant viral protein is the nucleoprotein (NP), a multifunctional, two-domain protein with the primary role as structural component of the viral nucleocapsids, used as template for viral polymerase RNA synthesis activities. Here, we report that the C-terminal domain (CTD) of the attenuated Candid#1 strain of the JUNV NP can be purified as a stable soluble form with a secondary structure in line with known NP structures from other mammarenaviruses. We show that the JUNV NP CTD interacts with the viral matrix protein Z in vitro, and that the full-length NP and Z interact with each other in cellulo, suggesting that the NP CTD is responsible for this interaction. This domain comprises an arrangement of four acidic residues and a histidine residue conserved in the active site of exoribonucleases belonging to the DEDDh family. We show that the JUNV NP CTD displays metal-ion-dependent nuclease activity against DNA and single- and double-stranded RNA, and that this activity is impaired by the mutation of a catalytic residue within the DEDDh motif. These results further support this activity, not previously observed in the JUNV NP, which could impact the mechanism of the cellular immune response modulation of this important pathogen.
Characterization of Diverse Anelloviruses, Cressdnaviruses, and Bacteriophages in the Human Oral DNA Virome from North Carolina (USA)
Authors: Paietta Elise N. , Kraberger Simona , Custer Joy M. , Vargas Karla L. , Espy Claudia , Ehmke Erin , Yoder Anne D. , Varsani Arvind
Published: August 2023

The diversity of viruses identified from the various niches of the human oral cavity—from saliva to dental plaques to the surface of the tongue—has accelerated in the age of metagenomics. This rapid expansion demonstrates that our understanding of oral viral diversity is incomplete, with only a few studies utilizing passive drool collection in conjunction with metagenomic sequencing methods. For this pilot study, we obtained 14 samples from healthy staff members working at the Duke Lemur Center (Durham, NC, USA) to determine the viral diversity that can be identified in passive drool samples from humans. The complete genomes of 3 anelloviruses, 9 cressdnaviruses, 4 Caudoviricetes large bacteriophages, 29 microviruses, and 19 inoviruses were identified in this study using high-throughput sequencing and viral metagenomic workflows. The results presented here expand our understanding of the vertebrate-infecting and microbe-infecting viral diversity of the human oral virome in North Carolina (USA).
COVID-19 Bivalent Booster in Pregnancy: Maternal and Neonatal Antibody Response to Omicron BA.5, BQ.1, BF.7 and XBB.1.5 SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Chen Wei-Chun , Hu Shu-Yu , Shen Ching-Fen , Chuang Hui-Yu , Ker Chin-Ru , Shen Ching-Ju , Cheng Chao-Min
Published: August 2023

Our study was to investigate the effects of bivalent COVID-19 booster vaccination during pregnancy on neutralizing antibody (Nab) levels in maternal blood (MB), transplacental transmission in umbilical cord blood (CB), and efficacy against Omicron SARS-CoV-2 subvariants including BA.5, BF.7, BQ.1, and XBB.1.5. We collected MB and CB from 11 pregnant participants during baby delivery and detected Nab inhibition by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). Nab inhibition was 89–94% in MB and 82–89% in CB for Omicron subvariants. Those receiving AZD1222 vaccines in previous monovalent vaccination demonstrated poorer maternal Nab inhibition of BA.5, BQ.1, and XBB.1.5 than others. Poorer maternal Nab inhibition of BA.5, BF.7, and BQ.1 was found in those receiving two-dose AZD1222 vaccinations than with either one or no AZD1222 vaccination. MB from those with infants weighing < 3100 g demonstrated better Nab inhibition of BF.7 than those > 3100 g (97.99 vs. 95.20%, p = 0.048), and there were also similar trends for Nab inhibition of BA.5 and BQ.1. No significant differences were seen in CB samples. Although diminished maternal Nab inhibition was seen in those with previous monovalent AZD1222 vaccination and heavier newborns, neonatal Nab inhibition was still strong after bivalent COVID-19 booster vaccination.
Endoscopic Anatomy of the Equine Guttural Pouch: An Anatomic Observational Study
Authors: Piat Perrine , Cadoré Jean-Luc
Published: August 2023

Guttural pouch endoscopy allows for both the visualization and treatment of many clinical problems in the equine retropharyngeal region. This area is extremely complex, and its description remains a real challenge for veterinary anatomists and practitioners. Six clinically normal equine cadavers were employed. Conventional dissections of guttural pouches without penetrating the guttural pouch membrane were first performed, and each adjacent structure was identified. Then, a guttural pouch endoscopic exam of the dissected heads was performed in order to correctly map each visible underlying anatomic structure identified in the previous dissection. This allowed us to: 1—identify each structure visible on endoscopic examination of the guttural pouch; 2—create a representative map of all the structures accurately identified via endoscopy; and 3—describe a systematic guttural pouch endoscopic examination with practical keys to help identification of the underlying vital structures. Our investigation provides new practical information on guttural pouch endoscopic anatomy and has allowed us to identify structures that were not previously described. We believe that this information may help with an accurate diagnosis in some cases and also potentially reduce iatrogenic trauma to important structures.
Simulating the Hydrological Processes under Multiple Land Use/Land Cover and Climate Change Scenarios in the Mahanadi Reservoir Complex, Chhattisgarh, India
Authors: Verma Shashikant , Verma Mani Kant , Prasad A. D. , Mehta Darshan , Azamathulla Hazi Md , Muttil Nitin , Rathnayake Upaka
Published: August 2023

Land use/land cover (LULC) and climate are two crucial environmental factors that impact watershed hydrology worldwide. The current study seeks to comprehend how the evolving climate and LULC patterns are impacting the hydrology of the Mahanadi Reservoir catchment. A semi-distributed Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model was utilized to simulate various water balance elements. Twelve distinct scenarios were developed by combining three different climatic data periods (1985–1996, 1997–2008, and 2009–2020) with four sets of land use maps (1985, 1995, 2005, and 2014). The SWAT model demonstrated strong performance in simulating monthly stream flows throughout the calibration and validation phases. The study reveals that changes in LULC have a distinct effect on the environment. Specifically, the changes in LULC lead to heightened streamflow and reduced evapotranspiration (ET). These changes are mainly attributed to amplified urbanization and the diminished presence of water bodies, forest cover, and barren land within the Mahanadi Reservoir catchment. The combined impact of climate change and LULC shifts reveals complex interactions. Therefore, the present study offers an understanding of how changes in climate and land use over the past few decades have influenced the hydrological behavior of the Mahanadi Reservoir catchment in Chhattisgarh. The findings of this study have the potential to offer advantages to governmental bodies, policymakers, water resource engineers, and planners seeking effective strategies for water resource management. These strategies would be particularly relevant in the context of climate change and land use/land cover changes in ecological regions similar to those of the Mahanadi Reservoir catchment. In addition, a rational regulatory framework for land use patterns is essential for assisting stakeholders in managing water resources and appropriately developing the entire catchment.
Vermicompost Combined with Soil Conditioner Improves the Ecosystem Multifunctionality in Saline-Alkali Land
Authors: Ai Feng , He Linwei , Li Qiang , Li Binbin , Zhang Kaiyu , Yang Hang , Zhang Chenchen
Published: August 2023

Addressing the challenges posed by Saline-Alkali land holds significant promise for optimizing agricultural resources and fostering sustainable agricultural development in affected areas. This study explores the efficacy of coal-based solid waste soil conditioner and vermicompost as mixed-component soil amendments in varying proportions. Through comprehensive field experiments, we investigate the impact of these amendments on soil physicochemical properties, microbial diversity, and the growth of L. chinensis, a grass species native to saline areas. Our findings reveal that the application of vermicompost-based soil amendments effectively reduced soil conductivity and led to noteworthy improvements in the pH of Saline-Alkali soil. Moreover, these amendments demonstrated a marked capacity to enhance soil organic matter and available nutrients, most notably available phosphorus. Concurrently, the introduced soil amendments exhibited a positive influence on soil microbial diversity. A correlation analysis underscores the pivotal roles of soil pH and organic matter in shifting soil microbial communities. In response to amendments, L. chinensis exhibited varying degrees of growth enhancement, with biomass increments ranging from 6.37% to 19.91%. In summary, vermicompost and soil conditioner can improve Saline-Alkali land by supplementing organic matter and effective nutrients, improving pH and conductivity, and regulating microbial community, so as to realize the restoration and improvement of Saline-Alkali land; the greatest improvement was achieved with soil conditioner and vermicompost application rates of 30,000 kg·ha−1 and 15,000 kg·ha−1, respectively. Our results provide robust support for advocating for the integration of vermicompost-based soil amendments in Saline-Alkali land management strategies.
Assessment of Spatial and Temporal Variation in Water Quality for the Godavari River
Authors: Navasakthi Shibani , Pandey Anuvesh , Dandautiya Rahul , Hasan Murtaza , Khan Mohammad Amir , Perveen Kahkashan , Alam Shamshad , Garg Rajni , Qamar Obaid
Published: August 2023

With increasing population and industrialization, the water quality of freshwater sources like rivers, lakes, and ponds is becoming increasingly degraded. Most of the rivers in India are becoming polluted, including the Godavari. With the construction of dams, new industries and unsustainable agricultural practices in the Godavari basin, the water characteristics are degrading spatially and temporally. The present study emphasizes the analysis of water quality parameters like temperature, pH, Dissolved Oxygen (DO), conductivity, Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD), nitrate, and faecal coliform concentration in the Godavari basin. This was achieved by analysis of data taken from the Central Pollution Control Board, India (CPCB) for 21 stations around the Godavari basin over a span of five years from 2015 to 2019. The Pearson Correlation coefficient for the water quality parameters was assessed to study the relationship among the parameters. Variation in the water quality parameter is observed from the graphs for each station for respective years. It was found that conductivity and DO, temperature and pH and DO and faecal coliform are negatively correlated. It was also observed that DO has a negative correlation with pH, BOD and faecal coliform, indicating the utilization of dissolved oxygen at higher rates due to increasing degradation of organic matter by aerobic microorganisms in the river. One-way ANOVA was applied to find out significant temporal variations and it was observed that temperature, pH, and faecal coliform level had significantly changed the overdue course of time (F(4, 115) = 2.451, p < 0.05). The obtained results from the analysis indicate that the selected water quality parameters have varied significantly spatially, whereas temporally, according to the ANOVA coefficient, only temperature, pH and faecal coliform had shown significant differences during the selected timeframe. Hence, the present study highlighted the deteriorating water quality of the Godavari River over time.
September 11 — All-Russian Day of Sobriety
Authors:   Kremenskaya Central District Hospital, Frolova Elena Vladimirovna
Published: August 2023

In 1913 in Russia, at the insistence of the ministers of the Russian Orthodox Church, it was decided to celebrate the All-Russian Day of Sobriety for the first time, and this was done in St. Petersburg with the participation of a group of public people. This date coincided with the day of strict fasting, when the Orthodox world celebrates a great church holiday — the Beheading of St. John the Baptist: according to the new calendar, this day falls on September 11th. Legend has it that being in a drunken stupor, Herod Antipas cut off the head of the holy Prophet during a feast. In all the Orthodox churches of the country, a procession is held on this date, and prayers are read to John the Baptist with a request to free all those who suffer from the disease of insobriety and send them healing. On this day, it is customary to pray to the Icon of the Inexhaustible Chalice, which, as legend has it, is able to save from alcoholism, and priests call on relatives to come and light a candle for the healing of all the unfortunate heavy drinkers. On September 11, not a single tavern traditionally worked, wine shops were closed, and the most severe punishment was envisioned for the sale of alcoholic beverages.
İbn Meymûn'a Göre Yaratılış
Authors: ARSLAN Hatice
Published: August 2023

Bu makalede, Orta Çağ’ın önde gelen Yahudi düşünürlerinden olan Musa b. Meymûn’un âlemin yaratılışı hakkındaki görüşleri incelenmiştir. İbn Meymûn’un konu ile ilgili görüşleri kendi yaşadığı dönemden itibaren en çok tartışılan meselelerden biri olmuştur. Bunun temel nedeni yaratılış hakkındaki görüşlerini açıkladığı Delâletü’l-Hâirîn adlı eserinde bir yandan yoktan yaratılışa inandığını ifade ederken diğer yandan Yahudi şeriatının akla uygunluğunu göstermek için kullandığı felsefenin yoktan yaratılışı kabul etmeyişidir. Dolayısıyla bu durum, onun yaratılışla ilgili görüşlerinde egzoterik olarak yoktan yaratılışı kabul ederek Yahudi geleneğini sürdürüyor görünse de aslında ezoterik olarak Aristocu ezelî âlem inancını ya da Platoncu ezelî bir ilk maddeden yaratılışı kabul ettiği yönünde yorumların yapılmasına zemin hazırlamıştır. Çalışmada İbn Meymûn’un adı geçen eserdeki âlemin yaratılışı hakkındaki ifadeleri değerlendirilmiş ve konu ile ilgili ezoterik bir tavır içinde olmadığı, yoktan yaratılışa inandığı sonucuna varılmıştır. Bu araştırma ile ülkemizde müstakil olarak çalışılmayan İbn Meymûn’un yaratılış hakkındaki görüşlerinin ortaya konularak dinler tarihi alanına katkı sağlanması hedeflenmektedir.
Le projet de flottage des bois d'Évreux en 1725
Authors: Belhoste Jean-François
Published: August 2023

Le projet d'un canal au long de l'Iton pour le flottage des bois d'Evreux vers Paris et Rouen, formulé dès 1725, procède de l'accroissement des besoins de Paris en bois pour le chauffage et l'artisanat. L'extension de la zone d'approvisionnement de Paris fait en général reculer les forges, d'où de graves conflits, qu'il est nécessaire de neutraliser. En outre, comme le bois est taxé en ville, son transport doit être bon marché ; c'est pourquoi le flottage s'impose.

Le duc de Bouillon, propriétaire du Comté d'Evreux, possède de très grandes forêts. Il en fait abattre les futaies, qui se reconstituent en taillis, ce qui le place dans la dépendance des maîtres de forges du Pays d'Ouche. Pour échapper à leurs ententes, il souhaite vendre ses bois à Paris et fait étudier le projet du canal de l'Iton en 1725.

Des experts calculent prix de revient et bénéfices. L'essentiel du coût de transport (80%) est lié à la remontée de la Seine. Un dossier technique précis est établi pour le flottage et l'emprise du canal, dont le coût total doit dépasser 81 .000 livres.

Le projet suscite l'opposition de tous les riverains : seigneurs, meuniers et marchands. L'intérêt de la sidérurgie locale, menacée de ruine, prévaut. L'Intendant bloque le projet et les bois restent aux mains des maîtres de forges. Le canal, finalement construit vers 1750, sert seulement au transport des bois de marine et non à l'approvisionnement de Paris
L'approvisionnement en bois de chauffage d'une capitale provinciale au XVIIIe siècle : le cas de Besançon
Authors: Vion-Delphin François
Published: August 2023

During the 18th century, heating in Besançon was one of the city Magistrate's greatest concerns, a concern as well for the province's Intendant. In order to satisfy ever-increasing demand linked to the city population's doubling in size during the century (from 17,000 inhabitants in 1709 to 32,000 in 1791), municipal forestry property was highly insufficient and timber had to be brought in from the outside. Routes were not designed for regular transportation of heavy timber convoys, and therefore the Doubs river was used to float cut timber upstream.

From 1701 to 1726, numerous conflicts opposed the «Grand-Maitre des Eaux et Forets» and the Intendant ; the «Grand Maitre» feared that the communities of upper Besançon would damage their forest land in order to send larger quantities of wood for heating purposes, while the Intendant, supported by the urban Magistrate, was concerned with insuring a regular supply, and thus avoiding public complaint. This serious problem was resolved between 1726 and 1735 by the decision to use timber from communities of the Val de la Barbeche for urban heating, as well as timber from communities of the entire Baume area. This wood was auctioned by the Grand-Maitre for the communities' profit, with the buyers responsible for floating the logs on the Doubs toward the timber port of Rivotte, at Besançon. River currents were studied in order to facilitate passage and each year, more than 1000 hectares were thus destined for Besançon heating. Difficulties were not totally resolved, however, and at the end of the century, the city still did not benefit from adequate reserves, in the event of an extremely rude winter ; this question of supply remained a major concern up through the 19th century.
Les salons verts : parcours de la ville à la forêt
Authors: Kalaora Bernard
Published: August 2023

An attraction to the forest and forest outings will be seen only as of the July Monarchy and the Second Empire. Seen with fear and even considered ugly, the 19th century forest changes its image to become a source of enjoyment, esthetic delight, recreational activity. The idea of protecting nature and landscape comes from the discovery of the forest landscape which becomes a cult, or a cultural monument. As of 1849, «pleasure trains» will link the Fontainebleau forest to Paris, allowing thousands of city-dwellers to discover it. What is the origin of this infatuation ? How did this new past-time, this recreational function of the suburban forest, the object of much controversy, come about ?
Immanuel Kant Sur les volcans lunaires. Berlinische Monatsschrift (1785) [AK VIII, pp. 67-76]
Authors: Kant Emmanuel
Published: August 2023

Dans l'article qu'il fit paraître dans une revue berlinoise en 1785 (et dont nous donnons la traduction inédite en Français). Kant profite de l'occasion que constitue une découverte observationnelle de William Herschel à propos des «volcans lunaires» pour se livrer de nouveau à des réflexions d'ordre cosmologique. Reprenant certains acquis de sa Théorie du ciel (qu'il ne cite jamais ici). Kant se propose de remonter plus loin que Buffon dans les «époques de la nature» en s'appuyant sur les travaux d'Adair Crawford pour rendre compte de l'origine de la chaleur des corps célestes et de leur formation alors qu’ils étaient encore en fusion. Dans la brève étude que nous consacrons à ce texte, nous tentons de dégager le sens de ce retour de la pensée cosmologique à l'époque décisive où Kant rédige ses Premiers principes métaphysiques de la science de la nature tout en préparant une nouvelle édition de sa première Critique.
Method of movement control of unmanned vehicles according to specified trajectory of movement and safety considetations
Authors:   University of Business in Prague, Pila Jan , Martinec Frantisek ,   University of Business in Prague
Published: August 2023

Abstract: The article is aimed to the possible trajectory of unmanned aerial vehicles in built- up agglomerations. It points out problems relating to safety, selection of flight corridors and description of the method of movement control of unmanned aerial vehicle according to specified trajectory of its movement. Design proposal of UAV reference trajectory memory block and methods of solving safety and reliability in built-up agglomerations are presented in the article Keywords: Aviation unmanned system; Built-up agglomerations; Safety; Pilot operator; Flight route; Control method; Established trajectory