bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
E-Commerce in Brazil: An In-Depth Analysis of Digital Growth and Strategic Approaches for Online Retail
Authors: Veiga Claudimar Pereira da , Veiga Cássia Rita Pereira da , Michel Júlia de Souza Silva , Di Iorio Leandro Ferreira , Su Zhaohui
Published: June 2024

This article delves into Brazil’s rapidly expanding e-commerce sector, emphasizing its significant growth and evolving dynamics. Employing a meta-narrative review and a convergence-coding matrix, this research systematically analyzes and integrates findings from the existing literature to reveal critical industry patterns. The analysis identifies four pivotal clusters: consumer behavior, e-commerce structure, product distribution, and environmental sustainability. These elements collectively offer a comprehensive view of Brazil’s present and future e-commerce directions. This study underscores the imperative for strategies responsive to changing consumer behaviors, technological advancements, and environmental concerns. It also furnishes practical insights for enhancing online retail consumer engagement, logistical efficiency, and sustainability. Furthermore, this research advocates for e-commerce as a vehicle for digital inclusion, calling for policies that promote equitable access to online markets. This underscores its broader socio-economic importance, suggesting a path forward for stakeholders in shaping a more inclusive and sustainable e-commerce ecosystem.
When Positioning Mediates Social Judgements: Life-Stage, Gender, and Yeah-No in Australian English
Authors: Sherwood Stacey , Mailhammer Robert , Antoniou Mark
Published: June 2024

This study explores the correlation between social categories and linguistic variables, focusing on the perception of the discourse marker yeah-no in Australian English. Research suggests that these correlations reflect individuals’ recruitment of variables for the purpose of communicating social meaning. However, not all social categories which correlate with a variable in production are recognizable as social meaning. This study investigated how individuals’ positioning to a variable mediates their awareness to its social meaning by examining perceptions of gender and life-stage in yeah-no users and non-users. We found that individuals judged sentences including yeah-no as more likely to be said by a student, and this effect was stronger for individuals who did not self-report as yeah-no users. Furthermore, while there was no significant effect of gender, participants who did not self-report as yeah-no users were more likely to judge yeah-no sentences as said by a male speaker rather than a female speaker. The findings imply that the perception of social meaning is influenced by an individual’s positioning towards a variable. More broadly, the results provide support for using self-report techniques in the investigation of social meaning.
Constituting the American Higher-Education Elite: Rush and Jefferson on Collegiate Civic Engagement
Authors: Foster Luke
Published: June 2024

The foundation of new centers for civic education has sparked a new round of debate over the political independence of the public university. Do legal mandates by state legislatures undermine academic freedom? The underlying debate concerns alternative visions of elite formation, as comparing Benjamin Rush and Thomas Jefferson’s arguments during the Founding period makes apparent. Both believed that the American constitutional order depended on educated citizens of a certain character, requiring coercive authority in education to instill moral and political commitments. But whereas Jefferson made an exception for educational coercion, Rush viewed education as an aristocratic element that could complement democracy. Rush’s prioritizing of duties over rights offers a more helpful framework for the task of reforming elite education today to restore trust between leaders and people.
Synergistic Effect of Blended Precursors and Silica Fume on Strength and High Temperature Resistance of Geopolymer
Authors: Cao Bosong , Li Yi , Li Peipeng
Published: June 2024

This paper investigates the high temperature resistance performance and mechanism of potassium-activated blended precursor geopolymer with silica fume. The failure morphology, volume, and mass loss, compressive strength deterioration, hydration production, and pore structure are measured and analyzed. The results show that introducing slag into fly ash-based geopolymer could greatly improve the 28 d compressive strength but reduce the thermal stability. In contrast, the partial substitution of fly ash by metakaolin contributes to excellent high temperature resistance with slightly enhanced 28 d compressive strength. After being exposed at 800 °C, the residual compressive strength of F7M3 remains at 37 MPa, almost 114% of the initial ambient-temperature strength. An appropriately enlarged silica fume content in geopolymer results in increased compressive strength and enhanced thermal stability. However, an excessive silica fume content is detrimental to the generation of alkali-aluminosilicate gels and ceramic-like phases and thus exacerbates the high temperature damage.
Study on the Mechanical Properties of Crack Mortar Repaired by Enzyme-Induced Calcium Carbonate Precipitation (EICP)
Authors: Li Gang , Yan Deqiang , Liu Jia , Yang Peidong , Zhang Jinli
Published: June 2024

As an emerging repair method, the enzyme-induced calcium carbonate precipitation (EICP) technique has the advantages of being highly economical, eco-friendly, and durable. The optimal repair conditions were obtained by taking cement mortar as the research object, adding two types of filling medium, using three EICP-based repair methods to repair the cement mortar with different crack widths, and combining ultrasonic testing and strength testing to evaluate the mechanical properties and repair effects of the repair mortar. The microscopic structure of the mortar was established using mesoscopic and microscopic tests (XRD, SEM, and EDS), thereby revealing the mechanism of repair based on EICP. The test results show that, when quartz sand is used as the repair medium, more calcium carbonate adheres to the cross-section of test samples, and it has a better repair effect. Moreover, the repair effect of the injection method is significantly higher than those of the perfusion and immersion methods, and the ultrasonic wave transit time decreases by 1.22% on average. Based on the combination of quartz sand and EICP repair methods, the calcium carbonate precipitated among the sand granules contributes to a binding effect that strengthens the cohesive force among the sand granules.
Green Microbe Profile: Rhizophagus intraradices—A Review of Benevolent Fungi Promoting Plant Health and Sustainability
Authors: Onyeaka Helen N. , Akinsemolu Adenike A. , Siyanbola Kehinde Favour , Adetunji Victoria Ademide
Published: June 2024

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) such as Rhizophagus intraradices (formerly known as Glomus intraradices) are of great importance to maintaining the soil ecosystem while supporting sustainable agriculture and practices. This review explores the taxonomy of Rhizophagus intraradices, their attributes, mycorrhizal symbiosis, plant growth improvement, nutrient recycling in the soil, soil health and environmental rehabilitation, and challenges that impede the effective use of AMF in agriculture. AMF impacts soil structure by releasing organic compounds like glomalin, improving total organic carbon and water-holding capacity, and reducing water scarcity. AMF, in sustainable agriculture, not only improves crop productivity through nutrient uptake but also enhances soil fertility and plants’ resistance to so-called stress from abiotic factors as well. The integration of AMF with other beneficial microorganisms in organic farming will be powerful both to ensure long-term soil output and to protect food from bacteria. Nevertheless, chemical inputs and spatial biases of the researchers remain matters to be solved in connection with the broad feasibility of AMF use.
Ciliated Epibionts Modify the Cardiac Stress Reaction to Perceived Predation in Daphnia
Authors: Davis Andrew K. , Gloege Helen
Published: June 2024

When animals perceive an acute stressor like a predator, they typically undergo a suite of physiological changes that function to improve survival during the encounter, such as elevation in cardiac output, to supply more energy to muscles. If bodily energy is limited, such as by parasites or infections, these functions could become less efficient and lessen host survival. In the aquatic world of microorganisms, individuals can become colonized by other organisms on their surface (epibionts), which could sap energy from their host from their weight, or even compete with the host for food. Here, we tested if one epibiont (a ciliated protozoan, Vorticella spp.) affects its hosts’ ability to mount a physiological stress reaction. We collected wild daphnia (Daphnia ambigua) that had varying burdens of these on their bodies and exposed them to a simulated stressor (crushed daphnia, to simulate nearby predation) under a microscope while monitoring for changes in their heart rates in real time. Out of 121 daphnia, those with no Vorticella epibionts showed no meaningful changes in their heart rate after exposure, but those with light or heavy burdens showed immediate elevations (within 5 min). Moreover, the heart rates of heavily burdened daphnia continued to rise for 1.5 h thereafter, to as much as 17% higher than at baseline. These patterns were unexpected, as they suggest that the ciliated epibionts act to elevate their hosts’ physiological reaction, rather than dampen it, perhaps by churning the water column around the host, thereby enhancing the chemical alarm cue. The procedures used in this study may be useful for future investigations into the acute stress reactions of daphnia or other microorganisms.
Role of MalQ Enzyme in a Reconstructed Maltose/Maltodextrin Pathway in Actinoplanes sp. SE50/110
Authors: März Camilla , Nölting Sophia , Wollenschläger Lars , Pühler Alfred , Kalinowski Jörn
Published: June 2024

The pseudotetrasaccharide acarbose, produced by Actinoplanes sp. SE50/110, is a relevant secondary metabolite used in diabetes type II medication. Although maltose plays a crucial role in acarbose biosynthesis, the understanding of the maltose/maltodextrin metabolism and its involvement in acarbose production is at an early stage. Here, we reconstructed the predicted maltose–maltodextrin pathway that involves four enzymes AmlE, MalZ, MalP, and MalQ. An investigation of enzyme activities was conducted through in vitro assays, leading to an expansion of previously postulated substrate spectra. The maltose-induced α-glucosidase AmlE is noteworthy for its high hydrolysis rate of linear α-1,4-glucans, and its capability to hydrolyze various glycosidic bonds. The predicted maltodextrin glucosidase MalZ showed slow hydrolysis activity on linear α-glucans, but it was resistant to acarbose and capable of releasing glucose from acarbose. AmlE compensates for the low activity of MalZ to ensure glucose supply. We determined the enzyme activity of MalP and its dual function as maltodextrin and glycogen phosphorylase. The 4-α-glucanotransferase MalQ plays a central role in the maltose/maltodextrin metabolism, alongside MalP. This study confirmed the simultaneous degradation and synthesis of long-chain α-glucans. The product distribution showed that with an increasing number of glycosidic bonds, less glucose is formed. We found that MalQ, like its sequence homolog AcbQ from the acarbose biosynthetic gene cluster, is involved in the formation of elongated acarviosyl metabolites. However, MalQ does not participate in the elongation of acarbose 7-phosphate, which is likely the more readily available acceptor molecule in vivo. Accordingly, MalQ is not involved in the formation of acarviosyl impurities in Actinoplanes sp. SE50/110.
Development of Multiplex RT qPCR Assays for Simultaneous Detection and Quantification of Faecal Indicator Bacteria in Bathing Recreational Waters
Authors: Carrasco-Acosta Marina , Garcia-Jimenez Pilar
Published: June 2024

In this study, we designed and validated in silico and experimentally a rapid, sensitive, and specific multiplex RT qPCR for the detection and quantification of faecal indicator bacteria (FIB) used as microbiological references in marine bathing water regulations (Escherichia coli and intestinal enterococci). The 16S rRNA gene was used to quantify group-specific enterococci and Escherichia/Shigella and species-specific such as Enterococcus faecalis and E. faecium. Additionally, a ybbW gene encoding allantoin transporter protein was used to detect E. coli. An assessment of marine coastal systems (i.e., marine water and sediment) revealed that intestinal enterococci were the predominant group compared to Escherichia/Shigella. The low contribution of E. faecalis to the intestinal enterococci group was reported. As E. faecalis and E. faecium were reported at low concentrations, it is assumed that other enterococci of faecal origin are contributing to the high gene copy number of this group-specific enterococci. Moreover, low 16S rRNA gene copy numbers with respect to E. faecalis and E. faecium were reported in seawater compared to marine sediment. We conclude that marine sediments can affect the quantification of FIBs included in bathing water regulations. Valuing the quality of the marine coastal system through sediment monitoring is recommended.
Nutritional Behavior of Patients with Bone Diseases: A Cross-Sectional Study from Austria
Authors: Kraus Daniel A. , Medibach Amadea , Behanova Martina , Kocijan Annemarie , Haschka Judith , Zwerina Jochen , Kocijan Roland
Published: June 2024

Background: A balanced diet rich in calcium and protein is recommended for bone-healthy people and osteoporosis patients, but it may also be important for rare bone disease (RBD). Little data is available on RBD and diet. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the nutritional behavior of patients with RBD. Methods: This single-center, cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study assessed the nutritional behavior of RBD patients (X-linked hypophosphatemia (XLH), osteogenesis imperfecta (OI), hypophosphatasia (HPP)), osteoporosis (OPO) patients and healthy controls (CTRL). The nutritional questionnaire comprised 25 questions from seven nutritional areas. The associations between socioeconomic factors and BMI were assessed by age-adjusted univariate analysis of covariance (ANCOVA). Results: Fifty patients with RBD (17 OI, 17 HPP, 16 XLH; mean age of 48.8 ± 15.9, 26.0% male, mean BMI 26.2 ± 5.6), 51 with OPO (mean age 66.6 ± 10.0, 9.8% male, mean BMI 24.2 ± 3.9) and 52 CTRL (mean age 50.8 ± 16.3, 26.9% male, mean BMI 26.4 ± 4.7) participated. Twenty-six (52.0%) RBD, 17 (33.4%) OPO and 24 (46.1%) CTRL were overweight or obese according to BMI. Only a minority of RBD, OPO and CTRL had a daily intake of at least three portions of milk or milk products (17.3% RBD, 15.6% OPO, 11.6% CTRL, p = 0.453). In general, similar nutritional behavior was observed between the three subgroups. However, significant differences were found in caffeine consumption (p = 0.016), fruit/vegetable juice consumption (p = 0.034), portions of fish per week (p = 0.044), high-fat meals per week (p = 0.015) and consumption of salty snacks (p = 0.001). Conclusion: Nutritional counseling, controlling BMI and ensuring sufficient calcium and protein intake are crucial in patients with osteoporosis as well as in rare bone diseases. Vitamin D does not appear to be sufficiently supplied by the diet, and therefore supplementation should be considered in patients with bone diseases.
Development of Novel High and Low Emulsifier Diets Based upon Emulsifier Distribution in the Australian Food Supply for Intervention Studies in Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Fitzpatrick Jessica A. , Gibson Peter R. , Taylor Kirstin M. , Halmos Emma P.
Published: June 2024

Background: The aims of this study were to develop and evaluate a high/low-emulsifier diet and compare emulsifier content with preclinical studies that have associated Crohn’s disease with emulsifiers. Methods: Supermarkets were audited with a seven-day high- (HED) and low-emulsifier diet (LED) meal plan developed. The emulsifier content of food was sought from food manufacturers, compared to acceptable daily intake (ADI), and doses were provided in trials. Nutritional composition analysis was completed. Healthy adults ate these diets for seven days in a randomized single-blinded cross-over feeding study to assess palatability, tolerability, satiety, food variety, dietary adherence, blinding and the ease of following the meal plan via visual analogue scale. Results: A database of 1680 foods was created. There was no difference in nutritional content between the HED and LED, except HED had a higher ultra-processed food content (p < 0.001). The HED contained 41 emulsifiers, with 53% of the products able to be quantified for emulsifiers (2.8 g/d), which did not exceed the ADI, was similar to that in observational studies, and was exceeded by doses used in experimental studies. In ten participants, diets were rated similarly in palatability—HED mean 62 (5% CI 37–86) mm vs. LED 68 (54–82) mm—in tolerability—HED 41 (20–61) mm vs. LED 55 (37–73) mm—and in satiety HED 57 (32–81) mm vs. LED 49 (24–73) mm. The combined diets were easy to follow (82 (67–97) mm) with good variety (65 (47–81)) and excellent adherence. Conclusion: Nutritionally well-matched HED and LED were successfully developed, palatable and well tolerated.
Role of Corn Peptide Powder in Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Inflammatory Responses in 3T3-L1 Adipocytes
Authors: Mayakrishnan Vijayakumar , Lee Dae-Hee , Kim Kee-Hong , Kim Choon Young
Published: June 2024

Corn peptide (CP) is a short, naturally occurring, and physiologically active peptide generated from corn-protease-catalyzed hydrolysis. CP plays a role in preventing obesity-related disorders, but its impact on reducing inflammation is unknown. Hence, this study examined the possible protective effects of corn peptide powder (CPP) against the harmful effects of lipopolysaccharide (LPS), with a particular emphasis on reducing oxidative damage and inflammation in adipocytes. Hence, mature 3T3-L1 adipocytes underwent exposure to 10 ng/mL LPS, with or without CPP (10 and 20 μg/mL). LPS stimulation increased reactive oxygen species and superoxide anion generation. However, this effect was reduced in a dose-dependent manner by pretreatment with CPP. CPP treatment elevated the mRNA expressions of the antioxidant enzymes manganese superoxide dismutase (mnSOD) and glutathione peroxidase 1 (Gpx1) while reducing the mRNA expressions of the cytosolic reactive oxygen species indicators p40 and p67 (NADPH oxidase 2). In addition, CPP inhibited the monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, Toll-like receptor 4, and nuclear factor kappa B mRNA expressions induced by LPS. These findings demonstrate that CPP may ameliorate adipocyte dysfunction by suppressing oxidative damage and inflammatory responses through a new mechanism known as Toll-like receptor 4/nuclear factor kappa B-mediated signaling.
Emerging and Endemic Infections in Wildlife: Epidemiology, Ecology and Management in a Changing World
Authors: Byrne Andrew W. , Morgan Eric R.
Published: June 2024

The importance of gaining a greater understanding of the infectious diseases of wild animal populations and the impact of emerging and re-emerging pathogens has never been more sharply in focus than in the current post-COVID-19 world [...]
Adaptive Cellular Responses following SARS-CoV-2 Vaccination in Primary Antibody Deficiency Patients
Authors: Gupta Sudhir , Su Houfen , Agrawal Sudhanshu , Demirdag Yesim , Tran Michelle , Gollapudi Sastry
Published: June 2024

Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, in a short span of 3 years, vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 has resulted in the end of the pandemic. Patients with inborn errors of immunity (IEI) are at an increased risk for SARS-CoV-2 infection; however, serious illnesses and mortality, especially in primary antibody deficiencies (PADs), have been lower than expected and lower than other high-risk groups. This suggests that PAD patients may mount a reasonable effective response to the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine. Several studies have been published regarding antibody responses, with contradictory reports. The current study is, perhaps, the most comprehensive study of phenotypically defined various lymphocyte populations in PAD patients following the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine. In this study, we examined, following two vaccinations and, in a few cases, prior to and following the 1st and 2nd vaccinations, subsets of CD4 and CD8 T cells (Naïve, TCM, TEM, TEMRA), T follicular helper cells (TFH1, TFH2, TFH17, TFH1/17), B cells (naïve, transitional, marginal zone, germinal center, IgM memory, switched memory, plasmablasts, CD21low), regulatory lymphocytes (CD4Treg, CD8Treg, TFR, Breg), and SARS-CoV-2-specific activation of CD4 T cells and CD8 T cells (CD69, CD137), SARS-CoV-2 tetramer-positive CD8 T cells, and CD8 CTL. Our data show significant alterations in various B cell subsets including Breg, whereas only a few subsets of various T cells revealed alterations. These data suggest that large proportions of PAD patients may mount significant responses to the vaccine.
Subclinical Ovine Gammaherpesvirus 2-Related Infections in Free-Ranging Wild Boars (Sus scrofa) from Southern Brazil
Authors: Headley Selwyn Arlington , Fritzen Juliana Torres Tomazi , Silva Flavia Helena Pereira , Minarelli Silvio Luis Marsiglio , Biondo Leandro Meneguelli , Kmetiuk Louise Bach , Biondo Alexander Welker , Alfieri Amauri Alcindo
Published: June 2024

Ovine gammaherpesvirus 2 (OvGHV2), is a Macavirus and the cause of sheep-associated malignant catarrhal fever (SA-MCF), in which sheep are the asymptomatic reservoir hosts. Susceptible mammalian populations infected by OvGHV2 may develop clinical SA-MCF or subclinical infections. All members of the Macavirus genus known to be associated with MCF are collectively referred to as the MCF virus (MCFV) complex. This report describes the occurrence of subclinical OvGHV2-related infections in free-ranging wild boars (Sus scrofa) from southern Brazil. Specific body organs (n = 14) and biological samples (nasal and oral swabs; n = 17) were collected from 24 asymptomatic wild boars from a conservation unit located within the Central-eastern mesoregion of Paraná State. Organs were processed to observe histopathological patterns suggestive of diseases of domestic animals; only pulmonary samples were used in an immunohistochemical assay designed to detect MCFV tissue antigens. Furthermore, all samples were submitted to molecular assays designed to detect the OvGHV2 tegument protein gene. Viral-induced pneumonia was diagnosed in two wild boars; one of these contained OvGHV2 DNA, with MCFV antigens identified in the other. Additionally, MCFV tissue antigens were detected within pulmonary epithelial cells of the lungs with and without pulmonary disease. Collectively, OvGHV2 was detected in 37.5% (9/24) of all wild boars, with detection occurring in the organs of 57.1% (8/14) wild boars and the oral cavity of one animal. These results demonstrated that these wild boars were subclinically infected by OvGHV2, and that infection produced typical pulmonary alterations. In addition, the detection of OvGHV2 within the oral cavity of one wild boar may suggest that this animal may be a potential disseminator of this pathogen to susceptible animal populations, including livestock and wildlife, acting as a possible bridge host for OvGHV2. Furthermore, infection by OvGHV2 probably occurred due to incidental contact with asymptomatic sheep maintained within the surrounding rural areas and not within the conservation units.
A Comprehensive Research Review of Herbal Textual Research, Phytochemistry, Pharmacology, Traditional Uses, Clinical Application, Safety Evaluation, and Quality Control of Trollius chinensis Bunge
Authors: Yang Keke , Wang Zhen , Wang Panpan , Wang Lai , Li Yuanjie , He Lianqing , Liu Xiubo , Xu Jiao , Duan Yijin , Ma Wei
Published: June 2024

Trollius chinensis Bunge (TCB) is a perennial plant of the Ranunculaceae family with medicinal and edible values. It is widely distributed and commonly used in various regions, including Asia, Europe, and North America. The main chemical components of TCB include alkaloids, flavonoids, phenolic acids, and volatile oil compounds. TCB is renowned for its anti-inflammatory, heat-clearing, detoxifying, and eyesight-improving properties. Its dried flowers are commonly used as a traditional Chinese medicine indicated for the treatment of upper respiratory tract infections, chronic tonsillitis, pharyngitis, influenza, and bronchitis. Modern pharmacology has demonstrated the anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, antihypertensive, and antioxidant effects of TCB. This study presents a comprehensive overview of various aspects of TCB, including herbal textual research, botany, phytochemistry, pharmacology, traditional uses, clinical application, and quality control, aiming to provide new ideas on the scientific application of TCB as well as the integration of modern research with traditional medicinal uses.
Dual-Omics Approach Unveils Novel Perspective on the Quality Control of Genetically Engineered Exosomes
Authors: Olson Christopher , Ivanov Konstantin , Boyes Darin , Bengford David , Ku Joy , Flojo Renceh , Zhang Pengyang , Lu Biao
Published: June 2024

Exosomes, nanoscale vesicles derived from human cells, offer great promise for targeted drug delivery. However, their inherent diversity and genetic modifications present challenges in terms of ensuring quality in clinical use. To explore solutions, we employed advanced gene fusion and transfection techniques in human 293T cells to generate two distinct sets of genetically engineered samples. We used dual-omics analysis, combining transcriptomics and proteomics, to comprehensively assess exosome quality by comparing with controls. Transcriptomic profiling showed increased levels of engineering scaffolds in the modified groups, confirming the success of genetic manipulation. Through transcriptomic analysis, we identified 15 RNA species, including 2008 miRNAs and 13,897 mRNAs, loaded onto exosomes, with no significant differences in miRNA or mRNA levels between the control and engineered exosomes. Proteomics analysis identified changes introduced through genetic engineering and over 1330 endogenous exosome-associated proteins, indicating the complex nature of the samples. Further pathway analysis showed enrichment in a small subset of cellular signaling pathways, aiding in our understanding of the potential biological impacts on recipient cells. Detection of over 100 cow proteins highlighted the effectiveness of LC-MS for identifying potential contaminants. Our findings establish a dual-omics framework for the quality control of engineered exosome products, facilitating their clinical translation and therapeutic applications in nanomedicine.
The Fruit of Contradiction: Reading Durian through a Cultural Phytosemiotic Lens
Authors: Ryan John Charles
Published: June 2024

Distinctive for its pungent and oftentimes rotten odor, the thorny fruit of durian (Durio spp.) is considered a delicacy throughout Asia. Despite its burgeoning global recognition, durian remains a fruit of contradiction—desirable to some yet repulsive to others. Although regarded commonly as immobile, mute, and insentient, plants such as durian communicate within their own bodies, between the same and different species, and between themselves and other life forms. As individuals and collectives, plants develop modes of language—or phytodialects—that are specific to certain contexts. Focused on vegetal semiosis or sign processes, a phytosemiotic lens views plants as dynamic and expressive subjects positioned within lifeworlds. Absent from phytosemiotic theory, however, are the cultural sign processes that take place within and between plants—what I call cultural phytosemiotics. The framework I propose calls attention to the interlinked biological, ecological, and cultural dimensions of signification between plants and non-plants. From a phytosemiotic standpoint, this article examines historical, cinematographic, and literary narratives of durian. Reflecting the fruit’s divisive sensory effects, historical accounts of Durio by Niccolò de’ Conti, Jan Huyghen van Linschoten, Georg Eberhard Rumphius, and William Marsden alternate between praise and disdain. Moreover, films such as Fruit Chan’s Durian Durian (2000) and Anthony Chen’s Wet Season (2019) narrativize the polarities that similarly figure into historical depictions of the species. Literary narratives, including the poems “Durians” (2005) by Hsien Min Toh and “Hurling a Durian” (2013) by Sally Wen Mao, investigate the language of durian’s olfactory and gustatory sensations. Along a continuum between adoration to revulsion, durian embodies the otherness of vegetal being. In an era of rampant biodiversity loss, learning to embrace botanical difference should be a human imperative.
High-Power GHz Burst-Mode All-Fiber Laser System with Sub 300 fs Pulse Duration
Authors: Li Feng , Zhao Wei , Fu Yuxi , Xing Jixin , Wen Wenlong , Wang Lei , Li Qianglong , Cao Xue , Zhao Hualong , Wang Yishan
Published: June 2024

An all-fiber low-repetition-rate SESAM mode-locked fiber oscillator combined with a dispersion-managed active fiber loop produces a flexible GHz burst-mode laser source. The high-power output is then produced by amplifying the GHz burst-mode laser source using an all-fiber chirped-pulse amplification system. Then, the laser is compressed using a grating pair compressor; a maximum amplified power of 97 W is obtained. This results in a compressed high power of 82.07 W with a power stability RMS of 0.09% and beam quality better than 1.2. Accurate dispersion control allows for the production of a high-quality pulse duration of 265 fs.
The Genus Hyssopus: Traditional Use, Phytochemicals and Pharmacological Properties
Authors: Atazhanova Gayane , Ishmuratova Margarita , Levaya Yana , Smagulov Marlen , Lakomkina Yekaterina
Published: June 2024

According to modern concepts, the genus Hyssopus L. includes seven plant species (Hyssopus ambiguus (Trautv.) Iljin ex Prochorov. & Lebel; Hyssopus cuspidatus Boriss; Hyssopus latilabiatus C.Y.Wu & H.W. Li; Hyssopus macranthus Boriss.; Hyssopus officinalis L.; Hyssopus seravschanicus (Dubj.) Pazij; Hyssopus subulifolius (Rech.f.) Rech.f.). The plants are rich in various groups of biologically active substances with a wide spectrum of pharmacological action. This review presents a modern comprehensive overview of the botanical research, extraction methods, chemical composition and pharmacological activity of plants of the genus Hyssopus L. As a result of the review, it was established that the chemical composition of plant extracts of the genus Hyssopus L. depends on various factors (place of growth, weather conditions, chemotypes, extraction methods, etc.). For the further use of the plants, the extraction methods and low-molecular metabolites isolated from them (mono- and sesquiterpenoids, flavonoids, alkaloids, etc.) are discussed. The data from the review provide an assessment of the relevance.
Piezoelectric Outputs of Electrospun PVDF Web as Full-Textile Sensor at Different Mechanical Excitation Frequencies
Authors: Meng Fenye , Hu Jiyong
Published: June 2024

With the increasing application of electrospun PVDF webs in piezoelectric sensors and energy-harvesting devices, it is crucial to understand their responses under complex mechanical excitations. However, the dependence of the piezoelectric effect on mechanical excitation properties is not fully comprehended. This study aims to investigate the piezoelectric output of randomly oriented electrospun PVDF nanofiber webs fabricated through different electrospinning processes at various mechanical excitation frequencies. The electrospun PVDF web was sandwiched between two textile electrodes, and its piezoelectric output as a full-textile sensor was measured across a frequency range from 0.1 Hz to 10 Hz. The experimental results revealed that the piezoelectric output of the electrospun PVDF web exhibited a nearly linear increase at excitation frequencies below 1.0 Hz and then reached an almost constant value thereafter up to 10 Hz, which is different from the hybrid PVDF or its copolymer web. Furthermore, the dependency of the piezoelectric output on the excitation frequency was found to be influenced by the specific electrospinning process employed, which determined the crystalline structure of electrospun PVDF nanofibers. These findings suggest that determining an appropriate working frequency for randomly oriented electrospun PVDF nanofiber webs is essential before practical implementation, and the piezoelectric response mode in different mechanical activation frequency ranges can be used to detect different human physiological behaviors.
Investigation of Recycled Expanded Polyamide Beads through Artificial Ageing and Mechanical Recycling as a Proof of Concept for Circular Economy
Authors: Handtke Sören , Brömstrup Lena , Hain Jörg , Fischer Fabian , Ossowski Tim , Hartwig Sven , Dröder Klaus
Published: June 2024

Car manufacturers are currently challenged with increasing the sustainability of their products and production to comply with sustainability requirements and legislation. One way to enhance product sustainability is by reducing the carbon footprint of fossil-based plastic parts. Particle foams are a promising solution to achieve the goal of using lightweight parts with minimal material input. Ongoing developments involve the use of expanded particle foam beads made from engineering plastics such as polyamide (EPA). To achieve this, a simulated life cycle was carried out on virgin EPA, including mechanical recycling. The virgin material was processed into specimens using a steam-free method. One series was artificially aged to replicate automotive life cycle stresses, while the other series was not. The mechanical recycling and re-foaming of the minipellets were then carried out, resulting in an EPA particle foam with 100% recycled content. Finally, the thermal and chemical material properties were comparatively analysed. The study shows that the recycled EPA beads underwent polymer degradation during the simulated life cycle, as evidenced by their material properties. For instance, the recycled beads showed a more heterogeneous molecular weight distribution (an increase in PDI from two to three), contained carbonyl groups, and exhibited an increase in the degree of crystallization from approximately 24% to 36%.
Bird Droppings Defects Detection in Photovoltaic Modules Based on CA-YOLOv5
Authors: Liu Linjun , Li Qiong , Liao Xu , Wu Wenbao
Published: June 2024

Due to the characteristics of different forms and small bird droppings-related defects in photovoltaic modules, problems of missing detection, wrong detection, and low detection accuracy often exist in the bird droppings covering the detection of photovoltaic modules. In this paper, a defect identification method based on the improved Coordinate Attention—You Only Look Once (CA-YOLOv5) network is proposed. Firstly, a layer of the Coordinate Attention module is added between the Backbone and Neck network, which takes into account channel and location information to enhance the feature extraction ability of the network model. Secondly, the small target detection layer is added to fuse different feature information from shallow networks and deep networks so as to improve the multi-scale feature detection ability of the network structure and effectively improve the detection effect of small targets. Finally, the experimental results show that, compared with the original algorithm, the proposed improved algorithm based on YOLOv5s has a mean average precision (mAP) value of 92%, an increase of 5.2%, and the model volume is also reduced in different degrees compared with other mainstream algorithms, achieving a good balance between detection accuracy and model volume. The results show that the model has a more accurate detection result for the bird droppings-related defect detection of photovoltaic modules and can provide a reference for the detection of photovoltaic modules in real life.
Research on Thread Seal Failure Mechanism of Casing Hanger in Shale Gas Wells and Prevention Measures
Authors: Mou Yisheng , Xie Yonggang , Wei Fengqi , Zhao Han , Han Lihong
Published: June 2024

The strength and sealing failure of the connecting thread of the casing head mandrel hanger causes huge economic losses. One of the major challenges is the thread seal failure mechanism of the casing hanger in the wellhead during pressure testing in shale gas wells. In order to analyze the failure causes of connecting threads and put forward improvement measures, a typical case of a well accompanied by a hanger seal failure is analyzed in this paper, and a series of material tests are carried out. The microstructure and mechanical properties of casing materials and hanger materials could meet the field requirements. It is concluded that both the hanger material and casing material are characterized with significant ductile fracture. A three-dimensional model of the hanger and casing system is established, and the mechanical behavior is calculated for the connecting thread under different working conditions. The results showed that the connection degree of the hanger–casing is insufficient at the torque recommended by the manufacturer because of the difference in wall thickness between the box thread of the hanger and the box thread of the joint according to the connection degree of the coupling casing. It is seen that the high contact pressure ring of zone three on the sealing surface plays an effective sealing role under the manufacturer’s recommended torque (20,465 N·m). Finally, when the torque is increased by 25%, the maximum contact pressure between the pin thread of the casing and the box thread of the hanger can fully meet the internal pressure from the wellbore pressure test and the internal pressure strength required for subsequent operations.
Ngytarma and Ngamteru: Concepts of the Dead and (Non)Interactions with Them in Northern Siberia
Authors: Khristoforova Olga B.
Published: June 2024

This article examines some features of the mythological beliefs and funeral rites of Siberia’s two related Uralic peoples—the Nenets and the Nganasans. The afterlife fate in the mythology of Nenets and Nganasans is similar—the souls of the dead go to the Lower World, where they continue to live as they lived on Earth. However, the two cultures’ attitudes towards the dead have intriguing differences. A comparison of Nenets and Nganasan beliefs and rituals reveals significant correspondences between the ideas about the benevolence of the dead (the Nenets) or their harmfulness (the Nganasans), on the one hand, and the presence of the practices of substitutional incarnation (images of the dead) (the Nenets) or the absence of such images (the Nganasans) on the other. The differences between the Nenets and the Nganasans, as I suggest, are due to the origin and history of the peoples: the Nenets’ customs reflect the traditions of the Uralic tribes who came to the far north from Southern Siberia in ancient times. At the same time, the Nganasans’ ideas are probably rooted in typical concepts of the Palaeo-Siberian population assimilated by the Uralic tribes.
A Steering-Vector-Based Matrix Information Geometry Method for Space–Time Adaptive Detection in Heterogeneous Environments
Authors: Zou Runming , Cheng Yongqiang , Wu Hao , Yang Zheng , Hua Xiaoqiang , Wu Hanjie
Published: June 2024

Plagued by heterogeneous clutter, it is a serious challenge for airborne radars to detect low-altitude, weak targets. To overcome this problem, a novel matrix information geometry detector for airborne multi-channel radar is proposed in this paper. The proposed detector applies the given steering vector and array structure information to the matrix information geometry detection method so that it can be used for space–time adaptive detection. While improving the detection performance, the matrix information geometry detector’s original anti-clutter advantage is enhanced as well. The simulation experiment results indicate that the proposed detector has advantages in several of the properties related to space–time adaptive detection, while its computational complexity does not increase significantly. Moreover, experiment results based on the measured data verify the superior performance of the proposed method. Sea-detecting data-sharing-program data, mountaintop data, and phased-array radar data are employed to verify the performance advantage of the proposed method in heterogeneous clutter and the ability for weak target detection.
Integrated Circuit Bonding Distance Inspection via Hierarchical Measurement Structure
Authors: Zhang Yuan , Pu Chenghan , Zhang Yanming , Niu Muyuan , Hao Lifeng , Wang Jun
Published: June 2024

Bonding distance is defined by the projected distance on a substrate plane between two solder points of a bonding wire, which can directly affect the morphology of the bonding wire and the performance between internal components of the chip. For the inspection of the bonding distance, it is necessary to accurately recognize gold wires and solder points within the complex imagery of the chip. However, bonding wires at arbitrary angles and small-sized solder points are densely distributed across the complex background of bonding images. These characteristics pose challenges for conventional image detection and deep learning methods to effectively recognize and measure the bonding distances. In this paper, we present a novel method to measure bonding distance using a hierarchical measurement structure. First, we employ an image acquisition device to capture surface images of integrated circuits and use multi-layer convolution to coarsely locate the bonding region and remove redundant background. Second, we apply a multi-branch wire bonding inspection network for detecting bonding spots and segmenting gold wire. This network includes a fine location branch that utilizes low-level features to enhance detection accuracy for small bonding spots and a gold wire segmentation branch that incorporates an edge branch to effectively extract edge information. Finally, we use the bonding distance measurement module to develop four types of gold wire distribution models for bonding spot matching. Together, these modules create a fully automated method for measuring bonding distances in integrated circuits. The effectiveness of the proposed modules and overall framework has been validated through comprehensive experiments.
Application of Portable Near-Infrared Instrument for Analysis of Spirulina platensis Aqueous Extracts
Authors: Marjanović Blaženko , Sokač Cvetnić Tea , Valinger Davor , Benković Maja , Jurina Tamara , Gajdoš Kljusurić Jasenka , Jurinjak Tušek Ana
Published: June 2024

Spirulina platensis microalga has become recognized as a promising source of highly nutritious food components to feed the growing global population. Because of its high protein content, abundance of essential amino acids, and excellent digestion, it is employed in human nutrition and there is growing interest in analyzing bioactive compound present in Spirulina platensis microalga. In this work, a portable near-infrared (NIR) spectrometer was used for the monitoring of physicochemical properties (extraction yield (EY), total polyphenols concentration (TPC), total proteins concentration (TP), antioxidant activity measured by (i) the DPPH method (DPPH) and (ii) FRAP method (FRAP)) of Spirulina platensis aqueous extracts. The ultrasound-assisted aqueous extraction (ultrasonic bath with an ultrasound frequency of 35 kHz) of bioactive molecules from Spirulina platensis was performed throughout 30 independent experiments. NIR spectra were recorded in the wavelength range of 900–1700 nm. Raw NIR spectra were subjected to the physicochemical properties applying Principal Component Analysis (PCA), partial least square (PLS), and artificial neural network (ANN) modeling. Results show that ANN models developed for the prediction of TPC and DPPH can be utilized for extraction process control (RER > 10), while the other three models can be employed for screening (RER > 4). Generally, the obtained results indicate significant potential for using portable NIR spectroscopy for the analysis of Spirulina platensis aqueous extracts.
Urinary Tract Obstruction Secondary to Fungal Balls: A Systematic Review
Authors: Chew Kenneth Keen Yip , Kas Maryaan , Mancuso Pascal
Published: June 2024

Objectives: To understand the clinical characteristics, risk factors, diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes of urinary tract obstruction caused by fungal balls. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted across PubMed, Embase, and Medline following the PRISMA guidelines, including case reports and case series. Study quality and risk of bias were assessed using the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine (CEBM) document. The systematic review process was aimed at gathering and synthesising all available research evidence on the topic. Results: We included 54 articles reporting on 57 patients, primarily males (61.4%) with a median age of 56 years. The most common presenting symptoms were flank pain (71.9%) and fevers (59.6%). All diagnoses were made on the presence of yeast in urine or intra-operative tissue cultures and the presence of obstruction on imaging. The most common pathogen isolated were those of the Candida species (61.5%) followed by Aspergillus (33.3%). Multimodal management was the mainstay approach with the use of systemic and local antifungal therapy in combination with surgical drainage of the obstruction. The mortality rate was around 12.3%. Conclusions: Management of renal or ureteral obstruction caused by fungal balls requires a multimodal and multidisciplinary approach, comprising systemic antifungal therapy, drainage procedures, and in some instances, surgical intervention. The growing prevalence of antifungal resistance and the high mortality potential of fungal uropathy necessitates ongoing research into the optimal diagnostic and treatment modalities for this condition.
Turning Features Detection from Aerial Images: Model Development and Application on Florida’s Public Roadways
Authors: Antwi Richard , Kimollo Michael , Takyi Samuel , Ozguven Eren , Sando Thobias , Moses Ren , Dulebenets Maxim
Published: June 2024

Advancements in computer vision are rapidly revolutionizing the way traffic agencies gather roadway geometry data, leading to significant savings in both time and money. Utilizing aerial and satellite imagery for data collection proves to be more cost-effective, more accurate, and safer compared to traditional field observations, considering factors such as equipment cost, crew safety, and data collection efficiency. Consequently, there is a pressing need to develop more efficient methodologies for promptly, safely, and economically acquiring roadway geometry data. While image processing has previously been regarded as a time-consuming and error-prone approach for capturing these data, recent developments in computing power and image recognition techniques have opened up new avenues for accurately detecting and mapping various roadway features from a wide range of imagery data sources. This research introduces a novel approach combining image processing with a YOLO-based methodology to detect turning lane pavement markings from high-resolution aerial images, specifically focusing on Florida’s public roadways. Upon comparison with ground truth data from Leon County, Florida, the developed model achieved an average accuracy of 87% at a 25% confidence threshold for detected features. Implementation of the model in Leon County identified approximately 3026 left turn, 1210 right turn, and 200 center lane features automatically. This methodology holds paramount significance for transportation agencies in facilitating tasks such as identifying deteriorated markings, comparing turning lane positions with other roadway features like crosswalks, and analyzing intersection-related accidents. The extracted roadway geometry data can also be seamlessly integrated with crash and traffic data, providing crucial insights for policymakers and road users.