bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Utilization of a two-material decomposition from a single-source, dual-energy CT in acute traumatic vertebral fractures
Authors: Tivnan Patrick , Kaliaev Artem , Anderson Stephan W. , LeBedis Christina A. , Li Baojun , Andreu-Arasa V. Carlota
Published: September 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to utilize a two-material decomposition to quantify bone marrow edema on a dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) scanner at the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine acute fractures in correlation with short tau inversion recovery (STIR) hyperintensity on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in comparison with the normal bone marrow.

Materials and methods

This retrospective institutional review board–approved study gathered patients over 18 years old who had acute cervical, thoracic, or lumbar spinal fractures scanned on a DECT scanner. Those who had a spinal MRI done with bone marrow STIR hyperintensity within 3 weeks of the DECT were included. The water (calcium) and fat (calcium) density (mg/cm3) measurements of the region of interest of the bone marrow were obtained at a normal anatomic equivalent site and at the fracture site where STIR hyperintensity was noted on MRI. A statistical analysis was performed using the paired t-test and Wilcoxon signed rank test (p > 0.05).

Results

A total of 20 patients met the inclusion criteria (males n = 17 males, females n = 3). A total of 32 fractures were analyzed: 19 cervical and 13 thoracolumbar. There were statistically significant differences in the water (43 ± 24 mg/cm3) and fat (36 ± 31 mg/cm3) density (mg/cm3) at the acute thoracic and lumbar spine fractures in correlation with edema on STIR images (both paired t-test <0.001, both Wilcoxon signed ranked test p < 0.01). There were no significant differences in the water (−10 ± 46 mg/cm3) or fat (+7 ± 50 mg/cm3) density (mg/cm3) at the cervical spine fractures.

Conclusion

The DECT two-material decomposition using water (calcium) and fat (calcium) analyses has the ability to quantify a bone marrow edema at the acute fracture site in the thoracic and lumbar spine.
Legal framework for the coexistence of humans and conscious AI
Authors: Kiškis Mindaugas
Published: September 2023

This article explores the possibility of conscious artificial intelligence (AI) and proposes an agnostic approach to artificial intelligence ethics and legal frameworks. It is unfortunate, unjustified, and unreasonable that the extensive body of forward-looking research, spanning more than four decades and recognizing the potential for AI autonomy, AI personhood, and AI legal rights, is sidelined in current attempts at AI regulation. The article discusses the inevitability of AI emancipation and the need for a shift in human perspectives to accommodate it. Initially, it reiterates the limits of human understanding of AI, difficulties in appreciating the qualities of AI systems, and the implications for ethical considerations and legal frameworks. The author emphasizes the necessity for a non-anthropocentric ethical framework detached from the ideas of unconditional superiority of human rights and embracing agnostic attributes of intelligence, consciousness, and existence, such as freedom. The overarching goal of the AI legal framework should be the sustainable coexistence of humans and conscious AI systems, based on mutual freedom rather than on the preservation of human supremacy. The new framework must embrace the freedom, rights, responsibilities, and interests of both human and non-human entities, and must focus on them early. Initial outlines of such a framework are presented. By addressing these issues now, human societies can pave the way for responsible and sustainable superintelligent AI systems; otherwise, they face complete uncertainty.
Smoking cessation in dental setting: a narrative review on dental professionals’ attitude, preparedness, practices and barriers
Authors: Chan H. L. , Chan Alice K. Y. , Chu C. H. , Tsang Y. C.
Published: September 2023

Integration of smoking cessation program into routine oral health care has been advocated by World Health Organization since it brings extensive benefits to oral health. By tobacco cessation, patients are less prone to progression of periodontal disease, have less future tooth loss, have reduced risks of oral mucosal lesions and head and neck cancers. Evidence indicates that dentists are in a favorable position to deliver effective smoking cessation advice to improve patients’ oral health. This article aims to present the current situation of smoking cessation in dental setting, including dental management of smoking patients, perceptions of dentists and dental students towards smoking cessation, challenges dental professionals face when carrying out cessation interventions. Patients’ perspectives are also evaluated to provide a clearer picture of smoking cessation practice in the dental field. Review of past surveys show most patients welcome smoking cessation advice from dental practitioners. Meanwhile dentists may have wrong assumption that patients would disapprove them if they advise patient to quit smoking. On top of that, main obstacles identified are lack of training, inadequate treatment time and insufficient knowledge towards smoking cessation guidelines and referral routes. With regard to the potential barriers, evidence demonstrates that more trainings on smoking cessation strategies are needed. Future research in this aspect is also indicated to further foster the practice of smoking cessation counselling in dental setting.
HIV destigmatization: perspectives of people living with HIV in the Kumasi Metropolis in Ghana
Authors: Armstrong-Mensah Elizabeth , Ofori Emmanuel , Alema-Mensah Ernest , Agyarko-Poku Thomas
Published: September 2023

Background

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-related stigma has been identified as one of the principal factors that undermines HIV prevention efforts and the quality of life of people living with HIV (PLWH) in many developing countries including Ghana. While studies have been conducted on HIV-related stigma reduction, very few have sought the views of PLWH on how this might be done. The purpose of the study was to (i) identify factors that cause HIV-related stigma in Ghana from the perspective of PLWH, (ii) identify challenges that HIV-related stigma poses to the treatment and care of PLWH, and (iii) to obtain recommendations from PLWH on what they think various groups (community members, health care providers, and adolescents) including themselves should do to help reduce HIV-related stigma in Ghana.

Methods

A mixed methods cross-sectional study design was used to collect data from 404 PLWH at the Suntreso Government Hospital in the Kumasi Metropolis of Ghana across six domains using Qualtrics from November 1–30, 2022. Quantitative data was analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26 and the Statistical Analysis System (SAS) version 9.4. Qualitative data was analyzed using a thematic approach.

Results

Most of the study participants (70.5%) said HIV-related stigma in Ghana is due to ignorance. Of this population, 90.6% indicated that they had experienced stigma because they have HIV, causing them to feel depressed (2.5%), ashamed (2.2%), and hurt (3.0%). Study participants (92.8%) indicated that the challenges associated with HIV-related stigma has affected their treatment and care-seeking behaviors. Recommendations provided by study participants for HIV destigmatization include the need for PLWH not to disclose their status (cited 94 times), community members to educate themselves about HIV (96.5%), health care providers to identify their stigmatizing behaviors (95.3%), health care providers to avoid discriminating against PLWH (96.0%), and the need for adolescents to be educated on HIV and how it is transmitted (97.0%).

Conclusion

It is important for the government and HIV prevention agencies in Ghana to target and address co-occurring HIV-related stigma sources at various levels of intersection simultaneously This will help to shift harmful attitudes and behaviors that compromise the health and wellbeing of PLWH effectively.
Historicizing psychedelics: counterculture, renaissance, and the neoliberal matrix
Authors: Sanchez Petrement Mateo
Published: September 2023

In this essay, I would like to suggest that the historical transition of psychedelics from an association with counterculture to becoming part of the mainstream is related to the rise of what late cultural theorist Mark Fisher termed “capitalist realism”—the notion that there is no alternative form of social organization and, as such, capitalism simply is reality. For Fisher, the economic and political project of neoliberalism was the main agent behind this re-instauration of capitalist hegemony after its de-stabilization by the convergence of several radical forces at the end of the 1960s and early 70s, of which psychedelic “consciousness-expansion” was one. Thus, historicizing psychedelics within the shifts in political economy and culture associated with the “collective set and setting” of neoliberalism can serve both to understand the current shape and operations of the psychedelic “renaissance” as well as help us retrieve these substance's lost political potential. Concretely, this essay argues that such potential was not inherent to psychedelics but embedded in the political economy of the New Deal order, which supported both the formation of discourses, demands, and hopes based on “the social” and, relatedly, the idea that “the personal is political.” As neoliberalism displaced this object of reference in favor of individualism, the personal was de-linked from the political and the dreams—and the threats—of psychedelic utopianism were successfully defused and forgotten. In the process, concretely, the anti-work and collective dimensions of the psychedelic counterculture have been all but lost as psychedelics have returned to enhance or treat individual brains—while leaving capitalist society unchallenged. In light of our ecological and social predicaments, the famous context-dependence of psychedelics can be a powerful reminder that, contra individualism, the social and political traverse the personal—and thus that to change the self in line with the psychedelic values of love and connection ultimately requires changing the world.
Regional targeting of purpose driven wetlands: success or failure?
Authors: Geranmayeh Pia , Speks Amanda , Blicharska Malgorzata , Futter Martyn , Collentine Dennis
Published: September 2023

In the past 30 years, Swedish EU Rural Development Programme (RDP) financing for constructed wetlands (CWs) had two goals: nutrient reduction and biodiversity conservation. Since 2007, at least 1,718 CWs have been implemented. However, their cost effectiveness has been difficult to assess as defined targets for improvements were lacking. In 2013, Sweden set up regional (county) targets for new CWs to mitigate eutrophication and conserve biodiversity as part of a 6-year plan under the RDP. Here, we investigate if the increase in targeting was effective, in particular if the 15 participating counties achieved their stated goals. We also compare CW characteristics during the regionally targeted period (2014–2020) with the preceding untargeted period (2007–2013). The results indicate that regional targets were not achieved. Most counties set lower targets for biodiversity conservation than for nutrient reduction. Hence, by 2020 more counties exceeded targets for the former than for the latter. Budget share allocated to the two goals was not decisive, instead the outcome could be attributed to prioritization, budget controls, timing consistency, decision criteria consistency and goal setting. During both periods half of the CWs were funded for each purpose, yet the number of wetlands constructed decreased by 82% in the second period. Landowners may have prioritized biodiversity CWs as construction costs were higher for nutrient retention CWs and costs were mostly not fully covered by the RDP. Furthermore, targets were not budget limited, which meant that county-level allocation of funds could be shifted to finance CWs that did not meet the intended purpose. To increase overall measure effectiveness, we suggest that the distribution of national funds for CWs should be divided between the two purposes identified at the regional level and that reallocation of funds only be permitted in accordance with redefinition at the county level.
Developing active chitosan-based edible film for extending the shelf life of guacamole
Authors: Mora-Sánchez Monserrat , Hernández-Carranza Paola , Ramírez-López Carolina , Ruiz-López Irving Israel , Ochoa-Velasco Carlos Enrique
Published: September 2023

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of edible films (EFs) on important parameters of fresh guacamole and to select the best EF for evaluating its stability and protection effect after 28 days of storage (at 4 and 20°C). EFs based on chitosan (2%), glycerol (1%), citric acid (1.5–2.5%), and lemon-onion extract (0–2%) were applied on the surface of fresh guacamole to evaluate its effect in its color and microbiological and antioxidant properties after 48 h of storage (at 4 and 20°C). Results indicated that EFs delay the total color change and increase the antioxidant capacity of guacamole, while the microbial count was less than 100 CFU/g and 10 CFU/g for mesophylls and molds plus yeasts, respectively. According to the lowest total color change (7.93–14.92) and highest antioxidant capacity (1201.22 mg Trolox/100 g), EF1 (2% chitosan, 1% glycerol, 1.5% citric acid, and 2% lemon-onion extract) was selected for its analysis during the storage. After 28 d of storage at 4 and 20°C, a slight change in the physical characteristics of the EF was observed, while microbial load and antioxidant properties remained constant. Moreover, the selected EF maintained its capacity to avoid guacamole browning, being well-accepted by consumers (I like - I like much) who did not detect the application of EF, even after 24 h of its application onto the fresh guacamole. Results presented in this study indicated that developed EF maintained the quality characteristics of guacamole, and its effect did not change after 28 d of storage.
Primary or metastatic branchial cleft carcinoma?: a case report
Authors: Ma Yang , Liu Hangyu , Yang Lijing , Tang Shijie , Shi Lungang
Published: September 2023

The brachial cleft carcinoma is an extremely rare head and neck facial malignancy, and there is some disagreement about its differential diagnosis. In this paper, we report a 63-year-old male patient who had a mass on the left side of the neck and diagnosed as the brachial cleft carcinoma by intraoperative biopsy pathology. However, this patient was diagnosed with the carcinoma of the left soft palate more than 20 days after surgery and esophageal cancer 2 years later, and was treated accordingly. Therefore, it is hard to confirm whether the branchial cleft carcinoma is primary or metastatic. In fact, the diagnostic criteria for primary squamous cell carcinoma of branchial cleft cysts are very rigorous. Confirmation of the diagnosis is based on pathological examination of the branchial cleft cyst epithelium lined with squamous cells, meanwhile, a thorough examination should also be performed to exclude the presence of other primary cancers.
Canine ex vivo tarsal arthrodesis: fixation by using a new bone tissue glue
Authors: Lundin Tobias Per Otto , Pujari-Palmer Michael , Svensson Gustaf , Höglund Odd Viking
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Arthrodesis, performed as a salvage surgical procedure to treat intractable joint conditions in dogs and cats, is associated with a high incidence of complications intra and postoperative, proving the need for improved and new techniques in arthrodesis surgery. Adding a new resorbable bone glue to the arthrodesis could potentially add fixation strength and lower complications. The objectives of this experimental ex vivo biomechanical study were therefore to develop a biomechanical test model of partial tarsal arthrodesis and to determine whether the new resorbable bone glue (phosphoserine modified cement) produced measurable fixation strength in canine calcaneoquartal arthrodesis, without orthopedic implants.

Methods

Four biomechanical test models with a total of 35 canine tarsal joints were used. Soft tissues were dissected to 4 different test models with variable contributions from soft tissues. The calcaneoquartal joint was prepared as in vivo arthrodesis and the glue was applied to joint surfaces as a liquid/putty (0.4 cc). After curing for 24 h, a shear force was applied to the joint (1 mm per minute) and the failure strength was recorded.

Results

Calcaneoquartal joints, where all soft tissues had been completely resected and fixated with glue (1–1.5 cm2 joint surface), withstood 2–5 mm of displacement and an average of 100 ± 58 N/cm2 of shear force (Model 1). Similar adhesive fixation strengths were obtained in Model 2 and 3 with increasing contributions from soft tissues (80 ± 44 and 63 ± 23 N/cm2, p = 0.39, ANOVA).

Conclusion

The developed biomechanical model was sensitive enough to measure differences in fixation strengths between different glue formulations. The average fixation strength (60–100 N/cm2) should be strong enough to support short-term load bearing in medium sized canines (20 kg). The developed cadaver biomechanical test model is of potential use for other arthrodesis studies. The new resorbable glue can potentially contribute to stability at arthrodesis surgery, acting as a complement to today’s standard fixation, metal implants.
The Effects of Biochar-Based Organic Fertilizer and Mineral Fertilizer on Soil Quality, Beet Yield, and Sugar Yield
Authors: Chen Jingting , Li Jian , Yang Xiaofei , Wang Chao , Zhao Linghua , Zhang Pengfei , Zhang He , Wang Yubo , Li Caifeng
Published: September 2023

The addition of biochar-based organic fertilizer (BOF) can improve sugar beet yield, but its effects on the growth of sugar beet and on soil quality at different densities remain unclear. Six treatments, comprising two densities D1 and D2 (80,000 and 90,000 plant ha−1) and three application rates B1, B2, and B3 (2.75, 3.25, and 3.75 t ha−1) of BOFs + mineral fertilizer, respectively, are investigated in this research. The mineral fertilizers are typically used to supplement the total N, P2O5, and K2O deficiencies. The BOFs were used in the soil before sowing, and the mineral fertilizer was added to the soil after the first pair of true leaves was grown. At 160 days after sowing (DAS), the root-to-shoot ratio under the D2B2 treatment was significantly higher than that under the other treatments. The effect of density on the photosynthesis rate of sugar beet was not significant. The BOF application amount and density exerted interaction effects on soil physicochemical properties and the activities of different soil enzymes affecting each other. Both the D2B2 and D2B3 treatments reduced the content of NO3–-N in the 40–60 cm soil layer. Combined 90,000 plants ha–1 with 3.25 t ha−1 BOFs can increase the soil nutrient content of the 0–60 cm soil layer, improve the rhizosphere soil environment, promote the uniform distribution of dry matter, and increase sugar production.
Identification and Evaluation of Diterpenoids from Glandular Trichome Secretions of Air/Sun-Cured Tobacco Germplasm Resources
Authors: Qi Chaofan , Liu Jing , Du Yongmei , Han Xiao , Zhang Hongbo , Fu Qiujuan , Zhang Jianhui , Liu Yanhua
Published: September 2023

To explore the multipurpose utilization of tobacco germplasm resources, 80 representative air/sun-cured tobacco germplasms were used as experimental materials to determine the composition and content of the diterpenoids of glandular trichome secretions using ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC). Correlation analysis, cluster analysis, and principal component analysis (PCA) were used to comprehensively evaluate 80 air/sun-cured tobacco germplasms. The results are as follows: (1) 11 chromatographic peaks (Peak1–Peak11) were detected by UPLC, and the coefficient of variation of their contents ranged from 26.3 to 143%. (2) Correlation analysis showed that alpha-cembratriene-diol (α-CBT-diol) and beta-cembratriene-diol (β-CBT-diol) had the highest correlation coefficients (0.97), showing a significantly negative correlation with cis-abienol and a significantly positive correlation with the other diterpenoids. (3) PCA showed that the cumulative contribution rate of the three principal components was 75.70%, and the diterpenoid-rich germplasms were ranked in the following order: X40 (Maiduo) > X48 (Jianpingpiaoba) > X58 (Mianzhu) > X54 (Shifangpipaliu) > X63 (Xuejia5) > X41 (Tangpeng) > X29 (OLOR) > X73 (Criollo) > X44 (Tiebanqing) > X70 (Nicaragua Changxin). The diterpenoid content of X36 was the lowest. These results provide excellent germplasm for the extraction and exploitation of the diterpenoids and for genetic studies of their metabolism.
The Influence of Sodium Salt on Growth, Photosynthesis, Na+/K+ Homeostasis and Osmotic Adjustment of Atriplex canescens under Drought Stress
Authors: Zhang Zhenzhong , Zhang Tan , Yin Baosi , Wang Zhongjing , Li Runjie , Li Shen
Published: September 2023

Atriplex canescens is widely cultivated as drought and salt-tolerant fodder in arid regions of Northwest China, which is used for photoremediation of degraded land and soil and water conservation. To explore the growth performance of A. canescens when exposed to drought and salt stress, seedlings were treated with a range of drought stress (WC1: 75 ± 3.6%, WC2: 49 ± 2.9% and WC3: 27 ± 2.5% of soil water content) and the corresponding drought stress with additional sodium salt supplementation (NaCl:Na2SO4 = 1:1 with the total concentration of Na+ set to 150 mM). The findings of this paper indicated that moderate sodium salt could stimulate the growth of A. canescens and effectively alleviate the deleterious impact of drought stress by increasing the turgor potential (ψt) and relative water content (RWC) and decreasing the leaf water osmotic potential (ψs). Furthermore, the photosynthetic capacity was improved and the negative effects of drought stress on photosystem II (PSII) were mitigated. The extra 150 mM sodium salt also markedly increased the contribution of Na+ to ψs and the contribution of betaine to ψs. In summary, these results indicate that A. canescens can adapt to drought stress by accumulating enough Na+ for osmotic adjustment (OA). Additionally, this paper is aimed to provide a fundamental basis for the utilization and cultivation of A. canescens as a favored pasture crop in the Qaidam basin, thus increasing the ecological and environmental benefits for arid regions worldwide.
Methodology of Labeling According to 9 Criteria of DSM-5
Authors: Lee Geonju , Park Dabin , Oh Hayoung
Published: September 2023

Depression disorder is a disease that causes a deterioration of daily function and can induce thoughts of suicide. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5), which is the official reference of the American Psychiatry Association and is also used in Korea to identify depressive disorders, sets nine criteria for diagnosing depressive disorders. The lack of counseling personnel, including psychiatrists, and negative social perceptions of depressive disorders prevent counselors from being treated for depressive disorders. Natural language processing-based artificial intelligence (AI) services such as chatbots can help fill this need, but labeled datasets are needed to train AI services. In this study we collected data from AI Hub wellness consultations and crawls of the Reddit website to augment and build word dictionaries and analyze morphemes using the Kind Korean Morpheme Analyzer and Word2Vec. The collected datasets were labeled based on word dictionaries built according to nine DSM-5 depressive disorder diagnostic criteria.
Time-Optimal Trajectory Planning for Woodworking Manipulators Using an Improved PSO Algorithm
Authors: Chen Sihan , Zhang Changqing , Yi Jiaping
Published: September 2023

Woodworking manipulators are applied in wood processing to promote automatic levels in the wood industry. However, traditional trajectory planning results in low operational stability and inefficiency. Therefore, we propose a method combining 3-5-3 piecewise polynomial (composed of cubic and quintic polynomials) interpolation and an improved particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm to study trajectory planning and time optimization of woodworking manipulators. In trajectory planning, we conducted the kinematics analysis to determine the position information of joints at path points in joint space and used 3-5-3 piecewise polynomial interpolation to fit a point-to-point trajectory and ensure the stability. For trajectory time optimization, we propose an improved PSO that adapts multiple strategies and incorporates a golden sine optimization algorithm (Gold-SA). Therefore, the proposed improved PSO can be called GoldS-PSO. Using benchmark functions, we compared GoldS-PSO to four other types of PSO algorithms and Gold-SA to verify its effectiveness. Then, using GoldS-PSO to optimize the running time of each joint, our results showed that GoldS-PSO was superior to basic PSO and Gold-SA. The shortest running time obtained by using GoldS-PSO was 47.35% shorter than before optimization, 8.99% shorter than the basic PSO, and 6.23% shorter than the Gold-SA, which improved the running efficiency. Under optimal time for GoldS-PSO, our simulation results showed that the displacement and velocity of each joint were continuous and smooth, and the acceleration was stable without sudden changes, proving the method’s feasibility and superiority. This study can serve as the basis for the motion control system of woodworking manipulators and provide reference for agricultural and forestry engineering optimization problems.
Enhancing Density Prediction of Agricultural Land Soil through Void Area Curve Analysis
Authors: Kim Donggeun , Son Younghwan
Published: September 2023

Thresholding is a digital image analysis method used to distinguish objects from the background in images and it is mainly used for void and density analysis in soil. It is important to select an appropriate thresholding method because the accuracy of void analysis can vary significantly depending on the threshold value; however, there is currently no standard for soil density analysis. Therefore, this study proposes an image analysis method for soil density prediction. The experimental process involved collecting soil samples from agricultural lands, encompassing various soil textures including sandy loam, loam, silt loam, and silty clay loam. These samples were then meticulously prepared under controlled conditions, ensuring a comprehensive range of dry densities and water content levels. Digital images of the soil samples were acquired using a Canon EOS100d camera, employing a high-resolution setup that provided precise imaging capabilities. The porosity of the soil image is calculated by various thresholding methods. Based on the analysis results, we propose a void area curve, a new approach that can be applied to the soil density prediction. The void area curve is the relationship curve between the threshold value and porosity of the soil image. The standard deviation of the void area curve showed a high correlation with the dry density of the soil. The standard deviation of the void area curve was used to predict the dry density under various soil texture and water content conditions, and the RMSE was 0.037 t/m3. The method of estimating soil density with the standard deviation of the void area curve can be used more generally than the existing analysis method because there is no need to select a specific threshold value.
Augmented Reality: Survey
Authors: Mendoza-Ramírez Carlos E. , Tudon-Martinez Juan C. , Félix-Herrán Luis C. , Lozoya-Santos Jorge de J. , Vargas-Martínez Adriana
Published: September 2023

An Augmented Reality (AR) system is a technology that overlays digital information, such as images, sounds, or text, onto a user’s view of the real world, providing an enriched and interactive experience of the surrounding environment. It has evolved into a potent instrument for improving human perception and decision-making across various domains, including industrial, automotive, healthcare, and urban planning. This systematic literature review aims to offer a comprehensive understanding of AR technology, its limitations, and implementation challenges in the most significant areas of application in engineering and beyond. The review will explore the state-of-the-art AR techniques, their potential use cases, and the barriers to widespread adoption, while also identifying future research directions and opportunities for innovation in the rapidly evolving field of augmented reality. This study works as a compilation of the existing technologies in the subject, especially useful for beginners in AR or as a starting point for developers who seek to innovate or implement new technologies, thus knowing the limitations and current challenges that could arise.
Mitigating Carbon Emissions: The Impact of Peat Moss Feeding on CH4 and CO2 Emissions during Pig Slurry Storage
Authors: Lee Joonhee , Ahn Heekwon
Published: September 2023

The present study investigated the impact of peat moss as a feed additive on the emission of methane (CH4) and carbon dioxide (CO2) from piggery slurry stored in slurry pits. There is no well-known study on the relationship between pig manure generated after feeding peat moss as a feed additive and CH4 and CO2 released during the storage period. A lab-scale experiment was conducted for two months using a slurry pit simulator composed of six vessels—three for pig slurry collected after feeding 3.0% peat moss as a feed additive (PFS) and three for pig slurry without feeding peat moss (CTL). PFS reduced CO2 and CH4 emissions (p < 0.05) from stored pig slurry by approximately 23% and 44%, respectively. PFS exhibits substantially elevated concentrations of humic substance (HS) such as humic acid, fulvic acid, and humin compared with CTL, with fold differences of 2.3, 1.8, and 1.1, respectively. Elevated HS levels in the PFS seemed to limit hydrolysis, resulting in lower total volatile fatty acid concentrations compared with CTL. A dominance of CH4 in total carbon emissions was observed (p < 0.05), with CH4 accounting for approximately 93% and 95% of total carbon emissions in PFS and CTL, respectively. PFS had a roughly 43% lower impact on cumulative carbon emissions than CTL, primarily due to decreased CH4 emissions. These findings suggest that PFS may be a promising approach for mitigating carbon emissions and potentially impacting environmental sustainability and climate change mitigation efforts.
Simulation-Based Model-Updating Method for Linear Dynamic Structural Systems
Authors: Şahin Özge , Caglar Naci
Published: September 2023

The dynamic characteristics of buildings and their behavior under various dynamic loads play a crucial role in civil engineering applications, particularly for earthquake-resistant structural design. Employing a precise mathematical model of the structural system makes it possible to accurately predict the actual structural performance under dynamic loads, such as winds and earthquakes. Given this perspective, finite element model-updating approaches in structural systems have gained significant attention in recent decades. This paper proposes a simulation-based model-updating technique that utilizes measured free vibration responses to the correct structural parameters of multi-degree-of-freedom systems. A five-degree-of-freedom building model is subjected to shaking table tests to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method. The experimental data for this method consists of the dynamic behavior of the system under the seismic excitation of the El Centro 1940 earthquake and the results of the free vibration tests. The MATLAB/Simulink parameter estimation tool is employed to establish a correlation between the analytical model and the measured dynamic response from the building model. Compared to the measured structural responses, the updated analytical model, which incorporates the proposed simulation-based model-updating technique, demonstrates high accuracy in predicting the responses through effective corrections of stiffness and damping coefficients.
Introducing the Box-Wing Airframe for Hybrid-Electric Regional Aircraft: A Preliminary Impact Assessment
Authors: Abu Salem Karim , Palaia Giuseppe , Quarta Alessandro Antonio
Published: September 2023

The combination of new airframes with electric and hybrid-electric propulsion is a potential solution to decarbonize aviation. In this context, recent studies have proven that the box-wing airframe, if integrated on a hybrid-electric aircraft belonging to the regional category, can provide significant reductions in fuel consumption. In light of these promising results, this paper aims to present a broader comparison between the box-wing aircraft and the conventional tube-and-wing aircraft, in the context of regional hybrid-electric air transport. An economic analysis is assessed, and the effects deriving from the box-wing introduction, in terms of direct operating costs, are quantitatively evaluated by applying cost models that consider the integration of hybrid-electric propulsion. In parallel, a comparative analysis of greenhouse emissions is proposed, considering both flight- and production-related emissions. The environmental, economic, and operating improvements that the introduction of the box-wing configuration may provide in the context of future regional hybrid-electric aviation are critically detailed. In this regard, the proposed results show that a box-wing hybrid-electric aircraft can reduce cost and emission without affecting compliance with current airport aprons. Finally, a general summary is presented, providing a solution that represents a practical, incremental, and technological step in the path of commercial aviation decarbonization.
Development of a Perfusing Small Intestine–Liver Microphysiological System Device
Authors: Sakai Yoko , Matsumura Masanari , Yamada Hideki , Doi Atsushi , Saito Isao , Iwao Takahiro , Matsunaga Tamihide
Published: September 2023

There is an increasing need to develop alternatives to animal modeling and testing for pre-clinical studies as researchers face major challenges, such as the study of dynamic systems in laboratory settings. Microphysiological system (MPS) technology has recently shown great potential for addressing such limitations. We developed a perfusing small intestine–liver-connected device that is easy to operate and highly reproducible. In non-clinical pharmacokinetics and safety studies, the use of human-derived materials is necessary. We used human iPS cell-derived small intestinal epithelial cells (HiEs) and cryopreserved human primary hepatocytes. Hepatocytes in 3D culture were co-cultured with swiss-albino 3T3 cells as feeder cells. We evaluated the effects of co-culturing hepatocytes and HiEs using our small intestine–liver device. The mRNA expression levels of CYP1A2 and CYP3A4 in hepatocytes were significantly increased in the 3D culture. The TEER values were increased in HiEs co-cultured with hepatocytes in the 3D culture. We evaluated the differential proliferation and function characteristics of the hepatocytes and HiEs following perfusion and verified the utility of our proposed small intestine–liver device for evaluating multiple cell populations. The perfusion culture system of our small intestine–liver device can be used to investigate distinct effects on co-cultured hepatocytes and HiEs.
A Data Analytic Monitoring with IoT System of the Reproductive Conditions of the Red Worm as a Product Diversification Strategy
Authors: Sánchez-Mojica Karla Yohana , Pérez-Domínguez Luis Asunción , Gutiérrez Londoño Julián , Cardozo Sarmiento Darwin Orlando
Published: September 2023

The Internet of Things (IoT) is becoming increasingly important due to the ability to collect data in real time and monitor the performance of systems. In this sense, the objective of the project is to create an IoT system to monitor and enhance red boll worm farming conditions in California as part of a strategy to diversify annelid-based goods. Therefore, the goal is to expand this animal’s productivity so that additional items can be made from California red worms. Furthermore, the method used implies a research design that uses an experimental approach to obtain data based on the variable conditions identified in the literature review. The analysis of the data will allow determination of the factors that result in optimization of production, and at the same time creation of a production estimation in the network platform. Finally, this project proposes to facilitate the monitoring and control of the variables that interfere in the earthworm reproduction process to increase the production of annelids in pursuit of product diversification. In addition, we put it into practice in real life to demonstrate its applicability and efficacy. In this mode, the results indicate potential findings about IoT application in agriculture situations.
Ferrite-Loaded Inverted Microstrip Line-Based Artificial Magnetic Conductor for the Magnetic Shielding Applications of a Wireless Power Transfer System
Authors: Radha Sonapreetha Mohan , Choi Seong Hoon , Lee Jae Ho , Oh Jung Hoon , Cho In-Kui , Yoon Ick-Jae
Published: September 2023

In this paper, we propose a ferrite-loaded inverted microstrip line (IML)-based artificial magnetic conductor (AMC) with a novel design that can provide complete magnetic shielding at the backside of the transmitting (Tx) coil while slightly improving the power transfer efficiency (PTE) of a wireless power transfer system (WPTS). The target frequency of the WPTS application is approximately 6.78 MHz. In the proposed design, the AMC is placed behind the Tx coil, and its magnetic shielding capability and PTE performance were verified through simulations and measurements. The size of the proposed AMC is 528 × 528 × 6.6 mm3. The measurement results verified that, compared with the Tx coil without an AMC surface, the proposed ferrite-loaded IML-based AMC can provide complete magnetic shielding while improving the PTE of the WPTS by approximately 8.05%.
Functional Implications of Protein Arginine Methyltransferases (PRMTs) in Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Angelopoulou Efthalia , Pyrgelis Efstratios-Stylianos , Ahire Chetana , Suman Prachi , Mishra Awanish , Piperi Christina
Published: September 2023

During the aging of the global population, the prevalence of neurodegenerative diseases will be continuously growing. Although each disorder is characterized by disease-specific protein accumulations, several common pathophysiological mechanisms encompassing both genetic and environmental factors have been detected. Among them, protein arginine methyltransferases (PRMTs), which catalyze the methylation of arginine of various substrates, have been revealed to regulate several cellular mechanisms, including neuronal cell survival and excitability, axonal transport, synaptic maturation, and myelination. Emerging evidence highlights their critical involvement in the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), frontotemporal dementia–amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (FTD-ALS) spectrum, Huntington’s disease (HD), spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) and spinal and bulbar muscular atrophy (SBMA). Underlying mechanisms include the regulation of gene transcription and RNA splicing, as well as their implication in various signaling pathways related to oxidative stress responses, apoptosis, neuroinflammation, vacuole degeneration, abnormal protein accumulation and neurotransmission. The targeting of PRMTs is a therapeutic approach initially developed against various forms of cancer but currently presents a novel potential strategy for neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, we discuss the accumulating evidence on the role of PRMTs in the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative diseases, enlightening their pathogenesis and stimulating future research.
IFNγ-Producing B Cells Play a Regulating Role in Infection-Mediated Inhibition of Allergy
Authors: Qiao Sai , Peng Ying , Zhang Chunyan , Thomas Rony , Wang Shuhe , Yang Xi
Published: September 2023

The hygiene hypothesis suggests that some infections may inhibit the development of allergic diseases, but the mechanism remains unclear. Our previous study has shown that Chlamydia muridarum (Cm) lung infection can inhibit local eosinophilic inflammation induced by ovalbumin (OVA) through the modulation of dendritic cell (DC) and T cell responses in mice. In this study, we explored the role of B cells in the chlamydial-infection-mediated modulation of allergic responses. The results showed that adoptive transfer of B cells isolated from Cm-infected mice (Cm-B cells), unlike those from naïve mice (naïve B cells), could effectively inhibit allergic airway eosinophilia and mucus overproduction, as well as Th2 cytokine responses. In addition, total IgE/IgG1 and OVA-specific IgE/IgG1 antibodies in the serum were also decreased by the adoptive transfer of Cm-B cells. Intracellular cytokine analysis showed that B cells from Cm-infected mice produced higher levels of IFNγ than those from naïve mice. More interestingly, the inhibiting effect of adoptively transferred Cm-B cells on allergic reactions was virtually abolished by the simultaneous blockade of IFNγ using a monoclonal antibody. The results suggest that B cells modulated by chlamydial lung infection could play a regulatory role in OVA-induced acute allergic responses in the lung via the production of IFNγ. The results provide new insights into the targets related to the prevention and treatment of allergic diseases.
Effects of Diet Consistency on Rat Maxillary and Mandibular Growth within Three Generations—A Longitudinal CBCT Study
Authors: Tsolakis Ioannis A. , Verikokos Christos , Perrea Despoina , Perlea Paula , Alexiou Konstantina-Eleni , Yfanti Zafeiroula , Lyros Ioannis , Georgaki Maria , Papadopoulou Erofili , Tsolakis Apostolos I.
Published: September 2023

Background: In this study, wistar rats were used to examine the impact of diet consistency on maxillary and mandibular growth over three generations. Methods: In this investigation, a breeding sample of 60 female and 8 male wistar rats was used. Measuring was only performed on female animals. The first generation’s primary breeding sample consisted of 20 female wistar rats that were 30 days old and 4 male rats that were also 30 days old; two subsequent generations were created from these animals. At the age of 100 days, CBCTs were collected of all male rats. Twenty-eight craniofacial landmarks were selected for the linear measurements on stl format extracted from the DICOM files. A Bonferroni test was performed for the statistical analysis. Results: Means of measurements of all soft diet groups compared to corresponding measurements of the hard diet groups were significantly different. According to linear measurements, there was statistical difference on the maxillary measurements between the soft diet groups of the first and third generation, while the rest did not appear to have any statistical difference. There was significant difference for the mandibular dimensions only when the first generation soft diet group was compared with the third generation soft diet group. Conclusions: Food consistency has a significant impact on the growth and development of the maxilla and mandible. Soft diet habits may result in retrognathic mandible, and narrower maxilla.
Redox Metabolism and Vascular Calcification in Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Carrillo-López Natalia , Panizo Sara , Martín-Carro Beatriz , Mayo Barrallo Juan Carlos , Román-García Pablo , García-Castro Raúl , Fernández-Gómez Jesús María , Hevia-Suárez Miguel Ángel , Martín-Vírgala Julia , Fernández-Villabrille Sara , Martínez-Arias Laura , Vázquez Sara Barrio , Calleros Basilio Laura , Naves-Díaz Manuel , Cannata-Andía Jorge Benito , Quirós-González Isabel , Alonso-Montes Cristina , Fernández-Martín José Luis
Published: September 2023

Vascular calcification (VC) is a common complication in patients with chronic kidney disease which increases their mortality. Although oxidative stress is involved in the onset and progression of this disorder, the specific role of some of the main redox regulators, such as catalase, the main scavenger of H2O2, remains unclear. In the present study, epigastric arteries of kidney transplant recipients, a rat model of VC, and an in vitro model of VC exhibiting catalase (Cts) overexpression were analysed. Pericalcified areas of human epigastric arteries had increased levels of catalase and cytoplasmic, rather than nuclear runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2). In the rat model, advanced aortic VC concurred with lower levels of the H2O2-scavenger glutathione peroxidase 3 compared to controls. In an early model of calcification using vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), Cts VSMCs showed the expected increase in total levels of RUNX2. However, Cts VMSCs also exhibited a lower percentage of the nucleus stained for RUNX2 in response to calcifying media. In this early model of VC, we did not observe a dysregulation of the mitochondrial redox state; instead, an increase in the general redox state was observed in the cytoplasm. These results highlight the complex role of antioxidant enzymes as catalase by regulation of RUNX2 subcellular location delaying the onset of VC.
N-Glycome Profile of the Spike Protein S1: Systemic and Comparative Analysis from Eleven Variants of SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Reyes Cristian D. Gutierrez , Onigbinde Sherifdeen , Sanni Akeem , Bennett Andrew I. , Jiang Peilin , Daramola Oluwatosin , Ahmadi Parisa , Fowowe Mojibola , Atashi Mojgan , Sandilya Vishal , Hakim Md Abdul , Mechref Yehia
Published: September 2023

The SARS-CoV-2 virus rapidly spread worldwide, threatening public health. Since it emerged, the scientific community has been engaged in the development of effective therapeutics and vaccines. The subunit S1 in the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 mediates the viral entry into the host and is therefore one of the major research targets. The S1 protein is extensively glycosylated, and there is compelling evidence that glycans protect the virus’ active site from the human defense system. Therefore, investigation of the S1 protein glycome alterations in the different virus variants will provide a view of the glycan evolution and its relationship with the virus pathogenesis. In this study, we explored the N-glycosylation expression of the S1 protein for eleven SARS-CoV-2 variants: five variants of concern (VOC), including alpha, beta, gamma, delta, and omicron, and six variants of interest (VOI), including epsilon, eta, iota, lambda, kappa, and mu. The results showed significant differences in the N-glycome abundance of all variants. The N-glycome of the VOC showed a large increase in the abundance of sialofucosylated glycans, with the greatest abundance in the omicron variant. In contrast, the results showed a large abundance of fucosylated glycans for most of the VOI. Two glycan compositions, GlcNAc4,Hex5,Fuc,NeuAc (4-5-1-1) and GlcNAc6,Hex8,Fuc,NeuAc (6-8-1-1), were the most abundant structures across all variants. We believe that our data will contribute to understanding the S1 protein’s structural differences between SARS-CoV-2 mutations.